Fishing

The Crystal Coast hosts numerous fishing tournaments. The Swansboro Rotary Club hosts its King Mackerel/Blue Water Fishing Tournament in May, and one of the nation's largest king mackerel tournaments, the Atlantic Beach King Mackerel Tournament, is held in October. The Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament, one of the largest and oldest blue marlin tournaments in the country, is held each June. For details and dates, see our Annual Events chapter.

Federal government studies report that your chances of catching fish in North Carolina waters are unsurpassed along the entire East Coast. Of the 21 recorded catches of Atlantic blue marlin in excess of 1,000 pounds, five have been caught off the North Carolina coast. In fact, a 1,002-pounder is on display in the parking lot behind the Crystal Coast Visitors Center in Morehead City.

Seasoned anglers know a secret: Year-round fishing is a reality here. Saltwater anglers have access to miles and miles of fishing from the ocean, sounds, bays, rivers and creeks that define the natural wonderland of our coastal county. Inlets offer passages to ocean waters and deep-sea fishing. Ten miles east of Morehead City and Atlantic Beach is Cape Lookout, which offers some of the best fishing on the East Coast. 

Weather permitting, local fishing is soul-satisfying in the spring, summer, fall or winter. Consult our Sportfishing Guide in this chapter to find out which months are best for catching particular fish species. Whether you surf fish from the barrier island beaches or charter a private boat or head boat, you're sure to have the time of your life. If you desire a remote fishing experience, try vacationing at the fishing camps out on the Core Banks. You'll find more information about these hideaways in our Accommodations chapter.

Fishing Schools