Fishing

Surf fishing at Cape Point

National Park Service

Cape Hatteras National Seashore offers the angler a variety of excellent fishing opportunities. Many different types of fish can be taken from the surf, piers, and freshwater ponds as well as from boats in the inlets, the sound, and offshore in the Gulf Stream.

The best fishing is in the spring and fall, but the earnest fisherman can easily find reward all year. Action during the middle of summer is best offshore.

For offshore fishing opportunities, consider booking a charter fishing trip with our park lessee, Oregon Inlet Fishing Center. The Oregon Inlet Fishing Center is the home of the largest and most modern charter boat fishing fleet on the eastern seaboard. The full-service marina carries: bait, ice, fuel, oil, camping supplies, fishing tackle, boating equipment, clothing, food, beverages, and printed copies of North Carolina fishing regulations.

Looking for fishing opportunities closer to shore? The Bonner Bridge Pier on the south side of Oregon Inlet, provides great opporunities for pier fishing 24 hours a day. The Avon Fishing Pier is world famous with its many record catches, especially with the giant Red Drum that frequent the waters. Everything you need for a day of fishing can be found at the Avon Fishing Pier. All you need to do is stop by the pier for a fun day of fishing or sightseeing and make once in a lifetime memories on the Outer Banks.

Enjoy your day fishing, just remember any person aged 16 and older who wants to fish recreationally in any water designated as coastal and joint waters of North Carolina must purchase a Coastal Recreational Fishing License (license included with admission at Avon Fishing Pier). This license can be purchased on a 10-day, annual or lifetime basis, or combined with a variety of licenses issued by the Wildlife Resources Commission (WRC). State of North Carolina fishing regulations may apply.

The natural beauty of Cape Hatteras National Seashore is a pleasure for everyone to enjoy. Help us preserve it by:

• removing all trash (including fishing line, bait, fish parts or dead fish),
• not feeding any wildlife,
• returning back to the water alive all fish you aren't keeping (including skates and sharks), and
• not dumping wastewater or gray-water on the beach.

Numerous local tackle shops sell bait and fishing equipment, and are your best source for fishing information. If using your vehicle to access a beach area, check out our off-road vehicle information.