With miles of sandy shores and plenty of chances to cast a line, it’s no wonder fishing is one of the most popular pastimes on an Outer Banks vacation.
If you’re planning your next visit and want to make time to enjoy a day of fishing fun, we’ve got all the info you need to give you the best chance at hooking the big one. From the best time to go fishing and the types of fish you’ll find to local shops and the best locations, it’s all here.
So, grab your poles, load the car, and get ready to reel in the memories as we share all the tips for enjoying a day of fishing on the Outer Banks.
Interested in fishing on the Northern and Southern shores? Check out our fishing recommendations for other locations, too!
In This Article:
- Best Time to Go Fishing on Outer Banks
- What Types of Fish Can I Catch on Outer Banks
- Gear and Tackle Shops
- OBX Fishing Charters
- Where to Fish on the Outer Banks
- Book Trip Near Best Fishing Spots on OBX
When is the best time to go fishing on the Outer Banks?
From ocean fishing to freshwater outings on the Currituck Sound, you can go fishing year-round on the OBX. That said, certain months are better than others. Let’s break it out by the type of water.
For saltwater/ocean fishing, spring and fall are the best, giving you ample opportunities to catch migrating species like bluefish and red drum as they head closer to shore. As the temperatures cool, surf fishing offers a chance to hook larger species like speckled trout and striped bass.
In the freshwater of the Currituck Sound, April to early June and September to October are the peak of the largemouth bass season. You’ll also find yellow and white perch this time of year.
What types of fish can I catch on the Outer Banks of North Carolina?
The Outer Banks are a fisherman’s dream with tons of variety, thanks to the fresh and saltwater options. In addition to the types of fish we just mentioned, you’ll also find
- King mackerel
- Cobia
- Black drum
- Flounder
- Tuna
- Spot croaker
- And more!
Whether you're driving out on the beach to surf fish in Corolla, Duck, or Kitty Hawk, or you're getting on a boat to head out to Oregon Inlet or Pirates Cove, the fertile waters of the Outer Banks are sure to yield a successful haul.
How to surf fish OBX?
Gear is everything when it comes to surf fishing on the Outer Banks. Top area anglers recommend:
- An 8' to 16' light to medium surf-specific rod
- 20-25 pound test line, preferably monofilament nylon, fluorocarbon, or braided
- If you're fishing for a specific variety, your rig can make the difference. Pay attention to season and species when selecting this piece of gear
- Rod holders - sand spikes and spiral rod holders are a lifesaver when you need to take a break
- 2-4 ounce pyramid weights to battle the currents
- Beach cart to load/unload gear (unless you're driving out on the beach)
- Bait like shrimp, sand fleas, mullet, squid, and other options (available at local seafood markets or tackle shops)
- Lures. Again, your local tackle shop will have the best recommendations. Tell them what you're fishing for, and they'll set you up
- General tools like needle-nose pliers, gloves, and polarized sunglasses
Fishing Gear and Tackle Shops
As you may have guessed (and as we just mentioned), with so many varieties of fish in the water, making sure you have the right bait and tackle is key. If you don’t want to load the car with your personal gear, that’s ok! The towns in the Outer Banks have plenty of local bait and tackle shops where you can rent poles, secure a charter boat, get a fishing license, and anything else you may need.
Here are three of our favorite tackle shops:
Grab everything you need for an incredible day of fishing on the Outer Banks when you visit one of these excellent local businesses.
Do you need a fishing license in OBX?
You do. But getting one is easy; you can even do it before you arrive. Just visit the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission and purchase online.
Ready to Save on Your OBX Fishing Trip?
Get the best rate on your fishing vacation by booking directly with Brindley Beach. Browse our full inventory and unlock special discounts only available with us!
See All Outer Banks Vacation Rentals
Fishing Charters on the OBX
Outer Banks fishing charters can be found up and down the northern and southern shores, so it’s important to do your research and book the one that best fits what your dream day on the water looks like. Do you want to go crabbing? Head out on a deep-sea adventure? Stick to the sound?
What about your boat? How many people will be going with you? These are all things to figure out before you book.
When you’re ready, check out these local resources:
- Marlin Mania Charters - Marlin fishing trips on Hatteras Island
- Oregon Inlet Fishing Center
- Sportsman’s Paradise Adventures – perfect for small groups and younger anglers
Your fishing charter will vary in cost depending on where you go, the type of vessel, and how long you want to be on the water, but generally, you can expect to spend around $300-$400 for a 2-hour trip, close to $600 for a 4-hour one, and up to $1500+ for a full 8-hour day.
How much does a marlin fishing trip cost?
At Marlin Mania, a full-day fishing trip from 5:30 AM to 5 PM costs $2100.
Where to Fish on the Outer Banks
For gentle water and gorgeous scenery, head to Currituck Heritage Park. Located on the sound, it's a peaceful place to spend a day with the family.
As we mentioned earlier, surf fishing is popular all up and down the Outer Banks shores, thanks to the perk of being able to drive on the beach. Just make sure you pay attention to your surroundings and don’t cast a line where people swim.
Fishing piers on the Outer Banks are another great option. Our favorites are:
- Avalon Pier - popular for Spanish mackerel, bluefish, and trout. Tackle shop and bar on-site
- Jennette's Pier - Extends 1,000 feet into the water, making it great for large species
- Kitty Hawk Pier - Less crowded than other OBX fishing piers
- Nags Head Fishing Pier - best for Spanish and King mackerel, bluefish, pompano, flounder, and red drum. Tackle shop and restaurant on-site
How many fishing poles can you use OBX?
There is no limit on how many fishing poles you can use on the Outer Banks when fishing from the beach/surf fishing. However, many fishing piers limit anglers to two poles per person.
What milepost is the Outer Banks Fishing Pier?
The Outer Banks fishing pier in Nags Head is located at milepost 18.5 on Old Oregon Inlet Road.
How much does it cost to fish Outer Banks Pier?
You can purchase a day-pass for $12, a 3-day pass for $30, or a week-long pass for $70. Seasonal passes are also available, as well as rod and reel rentals.
Book Your Fishing Trip Directly with Brindley Beach
Featured Property: 102, Summers Getaway
One of the most important aspects of planning a successful fishing trip is choosing a place to stay that's near the water.
At Brindley Beach Vacations and Sales, you’ll find excellent Outer Banks vacation rentals that are perfect for your fishing trip.
Many of our vacation homes come equipped with outdoor fish-cleaning areas and grills so you can easily prepare your fresh catch and enjoy dinner under the stars with the family as you reminisce on the day’s adventure.
Plus, when you book directly with Brindley Beach, you’ll have added peace of mind knowing you got your property for the best price. That’s because coming directly to us lets you bypass the hidden fees and additional taxes that places like Airbnb or Vrbo add to the bottom line.
In addition to these savings, many properties come with perks you'll only find when you book with us:
- Free beach photo sessions at select properties
- $250 free beach gear credits
- $500 free beach gear credits
- K-Club Concierge discounts (Save on H2OBX Waterpark tickets and Kitty Hawk Kites activities, tours, golf, clinics, and more!)
- Free linens and towels
Browse our full list of Outer Banks vacation rentals, and book your fishing extravaganza getaway directly today!