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 Wilmington. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Spanish Mackerel
For fast-paced action with Spanish Mackerel, Wilmington offers excellent opportunities, especially in the nearshore waters of the Atlantic. These speedsters show up in force during the warmer months, typically from late spring through early fall, following schools of baitfish. Trolling small spoons or casting Got-cha plugs around inlets and nearshore reefs is highly effective. Focus your efforts around the mouth of the Cape Fear River and along the beachfront. A local tip: early morning and late afternoon tend to be the most productive times. Keep an eye out for diving birds, which often indicate feeding frenzies. Spanish Mackerel in this area are known for their aggressive strikes, making for exciting battles on light tackle.
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 near Wilmington?
Spanish mackerel are often caught by trolling small spoons or lures behind a boat. Look for schools of baitfish and diving birds, as these often indicate the presence of mackerel.
What's the size and bag limit for Spanish mackerel in NC?
The bag limit for Spanish mackerel in North Carolina is 15 per person per day, and the minimum size limit is 12 inches fork length.
When is the best time to fish for Spanish mackerel in the Wilmington area?
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.
Do I need a license to fish for Spanish mackerel in North Carolina?
Yes, you'll need a Coastal Recreational Fishing License to fish for Spanish mackerel in the saltwater and brackish waters around Wilmington.
More Spanish Mackerel Fishing in North Carolina
Other Species to Fish in Wilmington
Ready to Catch Spanish Mackerel in Wilmington?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.