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 Jacksonville. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Spanish Mackerel
For some high-speed action, Spanish mackerel fishing near Jacksonville can be thrilling. These speedsters are most abundant in the warmer months, typically from late spring through early fall. They patrol the nearshore waters and inlets, feeding on baitfish. Trolling spoons or casting small, shiny lures like Got-cha plugs are effective tactics. Look for schools of baitfish or birds diving, as this often indicates the presence of Spanish mackerel. The area around Bogue Inlet is a popular spot. A fast retrieve is essential to trigger strikes. A wire leader is recommended to prevent bite-offs. Keep an eye on water clarity, as Spanish mackerel prefer clear water. A local tip: early morning or late afternoon are often the best times to target them. Also, consider using a chum slick to attract them to your boat.
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 around Jacksonville, NC?
Spanish Mackerel are often caught by trolling spoons or casting lures near inlets and along the beaches. Look for birds diving and schools of baitfish.
What is the minimum size Spanish Mackerel I can keep in North Carolina?
The minimum fork length for Spanish Mackerel that you can keep is 12 inches.
How many Spanish Mackerel can I keep in a day in North Carolina?
The daily bag limit for Spanish Mackerel in North Carolina is 15 per person.
Do I need a license to fish for Spanish Mackerel in Jacksonville, NC?
Yes, you need a valid Coastal Recreational Fishing License to legally fish for Spanish Mackerel and other saltwater species in North Carolina.
More Spanish Mackerel Fishing in North Carolina
Other Species to Fish in Jacksonville
Ready to Catch Spanish Mackerel in Jacksonville?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.





