An Angler's Guide to Fishing in the Outer Banks Year-Round

The Outer Banks of North Carolina is a must-visit destination for anglers. Hatteras Island, home to Rodanthe, Buxton and other coastal gems, has diverse fishing opportunities as well as stunning landscapes and a relaxed island culture. Use this guide to plan your trip to this ultimate fishing destination.

Why Fish Cape Hatteras Year-Round?

Cape Hatteras sits at the meeting point of the Labrador Current and the Gulf Stream, creating a mix of warm and cold waters that attracts a wide variety of fish throughout the year. Each season offers something unique — while summer is great for big offshore adventures, winter brings excellent inshore and surf fishing. Oftentimes, anglers have whole stretches of beach or soundside waters to themselves.

Seasonal Fishing Opportunities on the Outer Banks

Available fish species change throughout the year. Use this seasonal guide to help you determine where and when to cast your line. 

Spring (April to May)

Spring is when the region's fish begin migrating through the Gulf Stream. Some offshore species you can catch include:

• Yellowfin tuna
• Wahoo
• Big gaffer mahi

Inshore and nearshore species include:

• Striped bass (rockfish)
• Red drum (puppy drum)
• Bluefish

Summer (June to August)

Summer is when the Outer Banks fishing season is in full swing. Catch offshore species like:

• Bailer mahi
• Blackfin tuna
• White marlin
• Yellowfin tuna
• Sailfish
• Wahoo
• Blue marlin

The Oregon Inlet teems with inshore and nearshore species like:

• False albacore
• Bluefish
• Spanish mackerel
• Cobia

Fall (September to November)

As tourist crowds leave Cape Hatteras, deep-sea fishing in the Outer Banks may bring:

• Blue marlin
• White marlin
• Wahoo
• Mahi
• Blackfin tuna
• Bigeye tuna
• Yellowfin tuna

If you fish in or near the shore, some fish species you might catch include:

• Striped bass (rockfish)
• False albacore
• Bluefish
• King mackerel

Winter (December to March)

Winter weather in the Outer Banks can be harsh, but if offshore fishing is available, you can find species like:

• Yellowfin tuna
• King mackerel
• Blackfin tuna
• Bluefin tuna

Areas around the Hatteras or Ocracoke Inlets provide inshore and nearshore species like:

• Red drum (puppy drum)
• Striped bass (rockfish)
• Speckled trout
• Bluefish

Where to Go Fishing

Try these fishing spots near Rodanthe and across Hatteras Island:

• Rodanthe Pier: This classic Outer Banks fishing pier stretches over 700 feet into the Atlantic and offers bait, tackle and rentals. Rodanthe fishing catches often include bluefish, drum and trout.
• Oregon Inlet: Just north of Rodanthe, the Oregon Inlet is one of the best places for striped bass and puppy drum. Oregon Inlet fishing charters are available if you want to go deep-sea fishing in the Outer Banks.
• Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge: This refuge offers miles of beach perfect for surf fishing to catch striped bass and speckled trout.
• Cape Point in Buxton: Known as the crown jewel of Outer Banks surf fishing, Cape Point juts farthest into the Atlantic, offering opportunities to catch red drum, bluefish and more.
• Croatan Sound: The Croatan Sound is small with shallow waters, perfect for anglers fishing for flounder, striped bass and red drum.

Fishing License Basics

Anyone age 16 and over must have a valid North Carolina Coastal Recreational Fishing License (CRFL) for fishing in saltwater from shore or by boat, or if your fishing charter is a non-blanket vessel. However, if you are fishing from a licensed pier or joining a charter trip covered by a blanket license, you may be covered under the license provided by the business. You can purchase a CRFL online, by phone or at local tackle shops and sporting goods stores.

Tips for Successful Fishing in the Outer Banks

Follow these tips to make the most of surf fishing in Hatteras, NC:

• Dress in layers: The wind off the Atlantic can be chilly throughout the year, and coastal weather changes quickly. Wear layers to stay comfortable in all weather conditions.
• Watch the weather: Always monitor weather conditions, as storms can shift conditions quickly and impact the safety and success of your fishing expedition.
• Check reports: Local bait shops and fishing reports will point you to where the fish are biting.
• Bring fishing gear: Adjust your tackle and bait to the season and target species. For example, use heavier tackle and sinkers for surf fishing in winter's stronger currents.

Stay Near the Action at Cape Hatteras / Outer Banks KOA Resort

After a rewarding day of fishing around Rodanthe, unwind at Cape Hatteras / Outer Banks KOA Resort. Direct beach access lets you cast your line right from the shore.

Choose from a variety of ways to stay:

• RV Sites: Depending on the RV Site you reserve, you can get full hookups, grass or gravel pads, and shade shelters.
• Tent Sites: The Tent Sites include water and electric hookups, and all allow pets.
• Cabins: Camping Cabins include beds and linens for a cozy retreat, while Deluxe Cabins offer full kitchens and bathrooms.

Cape Hatteras / Outer Banks KOA Resort also features convenient amenities, including a fish cleaning station, hot tub, Wi-Fi and year-round pool access.

Plan Your Outer Banks Fishing Getaway Today

Cape Hatteras fishing has something to offer year-round for novice and advanced anglers, from red drum to speckled trout. Reserve your stay today at Cape Hatteras / Outer Banks KOA Resort and make your next fishing adventure unforgettable.