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

Spanish Mackerel
For high-speed action and exhilarating fights, target Spanish mackerel off the coast of Nags Head, North Carolina. These speedy predators are abundant during the warmer months, typically from late spring through early fall. They are often found near inlets and along the beaches, feeding on schools of baitfish. Trolling spoons or casting metal lures are effective methods for catching Spanish mackerel. Look for diving birds or surface commotion, as these are often indicators of feeding activity. A wire leader is essential to prevent bite-offs, as Spanish mackerel have sharp teeth. Access to these fishing grounds is primarily by boat from marinas in Nags Head and nearby towns. Be mindful of other boat traffic and keep an eye on the weather, as conditions can change quickly offshore. Spanish mackerel are known for their aggressive strikes and blistering runs, making them a favorite among anglers. Keep an eye on the water temperature as they prefer warmer waters. The Spanish Mackerel are a fun and challenging fish to catch!
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 daily bag limit for Spanish Mackerel in North Carolina?
The bag limit for Spanish Mackerel in North Carolina is 15 per person per day.
What size Spanish Mackerel can I keep when fishing near Nags Head?
You can keep Spanish Mackerel that are 12-inches in fork length or greater.
What's the best time of year to target Spanish Mackerel in Nags Head?
Spanish Mackerel are most abundant in the Nags Head area during the warmer months, typically from late spring through early fall. Look for them around inlets and nearshore waters.
Do I need a license to fish for Spanish Mackerel in Nags Head?
Yes, a Coastal Recreational Fishing License is required to fish for Spanish Mackerel in the waters around Nags Head.
More Spanish Mackerel Fishing in North Carolina
Other Species to Fish in Nags Head
Ready to Catch Spanish Mackerel in Nags Head?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.





