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From the brackish waters close to shore all the way to the thriving Gulf Stream, the waters surrounding the southern coast of North Carolina are known as some of the best in the world for sport fishing. Avid anglers ¯ ock here in droves for all-day fishing excursions and tournaments, always vying to be the next hero reeling in another record-breaking catch.
Summer and fall are both fruitful seasons for fishing, but with temperate water and air temperatures, fishing here is a year-round pastime. Even in the winter months, the ocean temperatures only dip to around the 50s near shore, and in the 70s in the Gulf Stream, allowing ideal conditions for a variety of fish.
Near the coast, estuaries and mud ¯ ats create the perfect environment for shrimp, crabs and oysters, while rivers and inlets usually are ripe with striped bass. Out in the ocean, the variety is almost endless. The Gulf Stream currents are less than 40 miles off the coast, the closest of any coast in the country, enabling anglers to reel in numerous species of fish, such as tuna, sailfish, ¯ ounder, blue marlin, mahi-mahi, wahoo, king mackeral, sea bass, tarpon, shark, red drum and more.
Of course, fishing along the Carolina coast isn't limited to professional anglers and fishing enthusiasts. Fishing, whether off a pier or miles from land, is an activity families, couples and groups of friends all can enjoy. Don't know where to start? Here are some of the main types of fishing along the Cape Fear Coast and Brunswick Islands.
Deep-Sea Charters
Head out to sea for a full- or half-day excursion aboard one of the many fishing charters in the area, some known as head boats. Some boats head all the way to the Gulf Stream, while others stay within about 20 miles of the coast. Charters heading to the Gulf Stream are usually larger sport fishing yachts, about 30-feet-long. These also tend to be the most expensive excursions, and are mostly targeted towards more serious anglers. Deep-sea charters that stay closer to shore are still quite successfulÐexpect to catch grouper, snapper, black sea bass and more. Gulf Stream charters target any fish that dwell in the deep waters of the Atlantic, like blue marlin, wahoo, tuna, sailfish and the like. On most charters,fishing rods, tackle and bait are included, and experienced captains and crew help beginners and experts find their next big catch.
Inshore Fishing Charters
The whole family may enjoy an excursion aboard one of the smaller boats that take anglers of all levels around the waters surrounding the Brunswick Islands and Cape Fear Coast. This type of charter is usually less expensive and more personable than larger offshore charters. Fish in shallow water, or head a few miles away from land to catch a wider variety of fish. You can also find these smaller fishing charters on the Cape Fear River, a freshwater area with largemouth bass, sunfish, catfish, herring and more.
Surf and Pier Fishing
All around the southern coast of North Carolina, it is possible to catch a cooler of fish right from the beach or pier. Every island along the coast as at least one pier, and most sell bait and fishing gear right there. Some frequent catches from area piers include Flounder, redand black drum, Spanish mackerel and Virginia mullet. Some of the best surf fishing around is right here along the Carolina coast-the best time to cast a line is during high tide, with an outgoing tide.
Kayak and Canoe Fishing
Explore inland waterways inaccessible by motorized boats while catching a variety of Founder, large drum and striped bass. Kayak and canoe fishing is an inexpensive way to make some great catches, will also getting an up-close view of the scenic marshes and backwater creeks that make up a lot of the coast.
For more information about recreational fishing in North Carolina waters, including licensing information, fishing reports, an artificial reef guide, and rules and regulations, visit the North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries website, www.ncfisheries.net
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