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 Oak Island. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Spanish Mackerel
Chasing Spanish Mackerel around Oak Island is a real treat when the conditions are right. These speedsters show up in force as the water warms, typically from late spring through early fall. Focus your efforts around nearshore reefs, inlets like the Shallotte and Lockwood Folly, and the beachfront as these areas hold the baitfish that Spanish Mackerel love. Knowing where the glass minnows and menhaden are schooling is half the battle. For the most success, try trolling small spoons or casting Got-cha plugs around schools of baitfish. A fast retrieve is key! Keep an eye on water clarity – Spanish Mackerel prefer cleaner water. A good access point is the Oak Island Pier, offering anglers without boats a chance to get in on the action. Also, be aware of strong currents around the inlets, which can influence where the fish are holding.
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 in Oak Island?
Trolling with spoons or Clarkspoons is a popular method. You can also try casting lures like Got-cha plugs or small jigs around schools of baitfish. Look for birds diving and actively feeding fish.
When is the best time to fish for Spanish mackerel near Oak Island?
Spanish mackerel are most abundant during the warmer months, typically from late spring through early fall. They migrate into the area as the water temperatures rise.
What is the size and bag limit for Spanish mackerel in North Carolina?
The minimum size limit for Spanish mackerel is 12 inches fork length, and the bag limit is 15 per person per day. The season is open year-round.
Do I need a license to fish for Spanish mackerel in Oak Island's saltwater?
Yes, you need a valid Coastal Recreational Fishing License to fish for Spanish mackerel in the saltwater areas around Oak Island. Make sure your license is up-to-date before heading out.
More Spanish Mackerel Fishing in North Carolina
Other Species to Fish in Oak Island
Ready to Catch Spanish Mackerel in Oak Island?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.