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

Spanish Mackerel
For some of the most exciting action off Morehead City, chase Spanish mackerel. These speedsters arrive in force during the warmer months, typically from late spring through early fall. Trolling small spoons or Clarkspoons behind a fast-moving boat is a classic technique. Look for schools of baitfish near the surface, as Spanish mackerel are rarely far behind. The area around Cape Lookout Shoals is a notorious hotspot, but be mindful of the strong currents and shallow water. For those without a boat, casting from the piers along the causeway can also produce results, especially early in the morning or late in the evening. A fast retrieve with a shiny lure is key. Keep an eye on water clarity; Spanish mackerel prefer clear, clean water. Also, be prepared for sudden changes in weather, especially during the summer months.
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 minimum size limit for Spanish mackerel in North Carolina?
The minimum size limit for Spanish mackerel is 12 inches fork length.
What's the daily bag limit for Spanish mackerel in Morehead City?
The bag limit for Spanish mackerel is 15 per person per day.
What are some good lures for Spanish mackerel near Morehead City?
Spoons, small jigs, and fast-retrieving lures are effective for Spanish mackerel. Look for areas with baitfish activity.
Do I need a license to fish for Spanish mackerel in Morehead City?
Yes, you need a Coastal Recreational Fishing License to fish for Spanish mackerel in North Carolina's saltwater and brackish waters.
More Spanish Mackerel Fishing in North Carolina
Other Species to Fish in Morehead City
Ready to Catch Spanish Mackerel in Morehead City?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.





