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 Surf City. Right now in May, activity is high.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Spanish Mackerel
Surf City, NC, offers some exciting Spanish Mackerel action when conditions are right. These speedsters are drawn to the area by abundant baitfish schools, making the nearshore waters and inlets prime hunting grounds. Look for them around Topsail Island's jetties, inlets like New Topsail Inlet, and along the beaches where bait is concentrated. The best time to target Spanish Mackerel is typically from late spring through early fall, as the water warms and baitfish become plentiful. Pay close attention to water clarity; Spanish Mackerel prefer clean, clear water. A local tip: try trolling small spoons or Clarkspoons behind a planer or trolling weight to cover more ground and find where the fish are holding. Also, be aware of the wind direction, as it can quickly change conditions near the inlets.
Plan a Trip to Surf City
See what's biting in Surf City, find top-rated guides, and estimate charter costs.
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 bag limit for Spanish mackerel in North Carolina?
The bag limit for Spanish mackerel is 15 per person per day. Be sure to adhere to this limit to help maintain a healthy population.
What's the minimum size Spanish mackerel I can keep?
You can keep Spanish mackerel with a minimum fork length of 12 inches. Make sure to measure from the tip of the snout to the fork in the tail.
Is there a closed season for Spanish mackerel in North Carolina?
No, Spanish mackerel can be fished year-round in North Carolina. This makes them a popular target for anglers throughout the year.
What are some good lures for Spanish mackerel near Surf City?
Small, shiny spoons and fast-retrieving lures are effective. Try Clarkspoons or Got-cha plugs, retrieved quickly near the surface.
More Spanish Mackerel Fishing in North Carolina
Other Species to Fish in Surf City
Ready to Catch Spanish Mackerel in Surf City?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.