Fishing

Surf fishing on Cape Hatteras National Seashore in 1935.

NPS

 

Cape Hatteras National Seashore offers the angler a variety of excellent fishing opportunities. The best fishing is in the spring and fall but the earnest fisherman can easily find reward all year except January and February. Action during the middle of the summer is best offshore.

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. You can go out on your own or check out one of our park concessionaires; the Avon pier for pier fishing or the Oregon Inlet Fishing Center for offshore fishing.

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

The natural beauty of the seashore is a pleasure for everyone to enjoy. Help us preserve it by:

• Removing all trash including bait, fish parts or dead fish;
• Properly removing and disposing of any fishing line;
• Not feeding the wildlife (including gulls);
• Returning all fish you aren't keeping back to the water alive including skates and sharks; and
• Not dumping wastewater or graywater on the beach.