Fishing Charters in North Carolina
Browse fishing charters in North Carolina that can help you catch spanish mackerel.
Salty Dawg Fishing Charters
Salty Dawg Fishing Charters specializes in Inshore, Nearshore, Shark Fishing, and Kids Fishing Charters. Based in Ocean Isle Beach NC, but also serving Sunset Beach NC and Holden Beach NC. Veteran-Owned.
Hot Pursuit Fishing Charters
Sneads Ferry, North Carolina
Hot Pursuit Fishing Charters is an expert in offshore fishing. Come join us for a chance to catch Wahoo, Dolphin, Tuna, King and Spanish Mackerel. Serving Topsail Beach, Sneads Ferry, Emerald Isle, Atlantic Beach and surrounding areas.
Miss Banx Fishing Charters
Want more time to fish and explore? This trip is for you! We'll troll for Spanish Mackerel, King Mackerel, Bluefish, and Ribbonfish, and explore wrecks to catch sharks!
Bald Eagle Sportfishing
About Bald Eagle Sportfishing Charters Whether you are the avid fisherman or a family looking for a fun day on the water, Captain Mike can accommodate your needs in the Holden Beach, NC area. Fish inshore for Spanish Mackerel, Blues, flounder, trout and redfish or the gulfstream for tuna, dolphin and wahool. Fishing is fun
Bad Habit Sportfishing
Fishing all of the North Carolina coast for over 30 years. Bad Habit Sportfishing specializes in fishing techniques that PRODUCE great catches. These catches include, Spanish Mackerel, Atlantic Bonito, Trout, Cobia, King Mackerel, Grouper, Snapper, Mahi, Tuna, Wahoo, Sailfish, and Blue Marlin, just to name a few.
Wann Sportfishing Charters
Inshore charter fishing aboard True Grit in Hatteras, NC and Stuart, FL.m fishing light tackle, spinning rods, ltj, lures, bait, livelining, live bait for rockfish, stripers, striped bass, red drum, black drum, speckled trout, weakfish, flounder, spot, croaker, black sea bass, spanish mackerel. Some trolling and lots of casting the shallows for topwater surface action along the shoreline, grassbed, oyster
Best Time to Catch Spanish Mackerel
Spanish Mackerel can be caught year-round in Emerald Isle. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Spanish Mackerel
Emerald Isle provides excellent opportunities to chase Spanish mackerel, especially from late spring through early fall when the water warms up. These speedsters are often found nearshore, feeding on schools of baitfish. Trolling small spoons or Clark spoons behind a planer or trolling weight is a proven method. Look for diving birds or surface activity, which often indicate the presence of mackerel. Casting Got-cha plugs or other shiny lures into feeding frenzies can also be highly effective. A local tip: The area around Bogue Inlet is a known hotspot, especially during incoming tides. Pay attention to water clarity and temperature; Spanish mackerel prefer clear, warmer water. They are also sensitive to boat traffic, so try to fish during off-peak hours or explore less crowded areas. Be sure to use a wire leader to prevent bite-offs, as these fish have sharp teeth.
How to Catch Spanish Mackerel
Spanish Mackerel Fishing Regulations in North Carolina
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
15 per person per day
Size Limit
12-inch minimum fork length
License Required
Coastal Recreational Fishing License
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the North Carolina state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in North Carolina
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best way to catch Spanish Mackerel near Emerald Isle?
Trolling with spoons or casting with small, shiny lures is effective for Spanish Mackerel. Look for them in areas with baitfish activity.
What's the bag limit for Spanish Mackerel in North Carolina?
You can keep up to 15 Spanish Mackerel per person per day. This is a generous limit, so be mindful of conservation.
What is the minimum size Spanish Mackerel I can keep in North Carolina?
Spanish Mackerel must be at least 12 inches in fork length to be legally kept. Make sure you know how to measure fork length correctly.
Do I need a license to fish for Spanish Mackerel in Emerald Isle?
Yes, you need a valid Coastal Recreational Fishing License to fish for Spanish Mackerel and other saltwater species in North Carolina.
More Spanish Mackerel Fishing in North Carolina
Other Species to Fish in Emerald Isle
Ready to Catch Spanish Mackerel in Emerald Isle?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.