Nags Head Fishing Charters
Nags Head fishing charters give anglers access to productive inshore waters, deep sea ledges, and seasonal runs along Oregon Inlet and the Outer Banks coast.d
Top Rated Charters in Nags Head
TrustedFish connects anglers with proven local captains in Nags Head, North Carolina —no commissions, no pay-to-play listings, no BS. Every charter on our platform is invite-only, vetted for skill, local knowledge, and reputation. If they’re listed, they’ve earned it.
Nags Head, NC Fishing Guide
Nags Head is one of the most versatile fishing hubs along North Carolina’s Outer Banks, offering everything from quick inshore half-days to full-on Gulf Stream deep sea runs. Most inshore trips work the sounds, flats, and bridge pilings around Roanoke Sound, while offshore charters launch from nearby Oregon Inlet to chase pelagics on the edge of the Continental Shelf. Mid-range wreck and reef trips are also common, especially when weather or timing makes the Gulf Stream a stretch.
The fishery here is structured around a blend of barrier island passes, expansive sound systems, and direct ocean access. Roanoke Sound is the heart of most Nags Head inshore fishing—rich with grass flats, oyster beds, and sandy bottom where speckled trout, red drum, and flounder hold. Heading out through Oregon Inlet, offshore boats typically run 30–40 miles to reach the Gulf Stream, where tuna, mahi, and billfish roam.
Spring and fall bring hot inshore bites, especially for specks and slot reds. Summer sees the best bluewater opportunities, with mahi and marlin pushing in close. In winter, inshore fishing can stay productive with striped bass and tautog near bridges and deeper holes. Most captains in Nags Head offer a mix of 4–6 hour inshore trips and 10–12 hour offshore runs, depending on weather, season, and target species.
Techniques vary by trip type. Inshore guides often use popping corks, soft plastics, and live bait for trout and drum. On the ocean side, trolling spreads dominate offshore fishing, while vertical jigging and bottom rigs are common over reefs and wrecks. Whether you’re casting light tackle in the sound or gunning for billfish past the shelf, Nags Head charters cover the full spectrum of Carolina coastal fishing.
Fishing Seasons in Nags Head
Spring
Spring kicks off strong inshore action around Nags Head, with speckled trout and red drum feeding heavily in the sound and creeks. As water temps climb into the 60s, flounder start showing up near sandy points and oyster beds. Offshore, blackfin tuna are the early-season highlight, along with some wahoo and scattered mahi on the break. Most charters stick to the inshore waters or nearshore wrecks in March and April, with longer runs increasing as May heats up.
Summer
Summer brings full throttle fishing to the Outer Banks. Inshore, anglers find consistent action with speckled trout, red drum (including bulls), and flounder around grass beds and bridges. Nearshore trips target Spanish mackerel, kingfish, and the occasional cobia cruising just outside the surf line. Offshore charters focus on mahi, yellowfin tuna, and white and blue marlin along the Gulf Stream. It’s the prime time for long deep sea trips, with flat seas and warm currents offshore.
Fall
Fall rivals spring for the best inshore bite, especially for speckled trout and slot reds, which feed aggressively as the water cools. Big drum move through in early fall, often caught on popping corks or chunk bait in the sound. Offshore fishing slows slightly, but you can still find mahi and the occasional wahoo. October also brings some of the best nearshore fishing for false albacore and king mackerel. As crowds thin, charter availability opens up for those in the know.
Winter
Winter fishing in Nags Head leans heavily inshore and around structure. Stripers school up near bridges and deeper channels, offering solid action for those who know where to find them. Tautog and black drum may also be available around rock piles and wrecks. Offshore trips are less frequent due to weather, but hardy crews may still run for bluefin tuna when conditions allow. Half-day and shorter trips rule the season, with a focus on quality over quantity.
Gamefish in Nags Head
- Red Drum – 18–50+ inches Found in Roanoke Sound and marsh creeks spring through fall. Cast soft plastics, live mullet, or use popping corks over grass flats and structure.
- Speckled Trout – 14–28 inches Targeted year-round but peak in spring and fall. Fish soft plastics, topwater plugs, or live shrimp near oyster beds and grass lines.
- Flounder – 12–25 inches Caught near drop-offs, pilings, and sandy bottom. Use bucktails, mud minnows, or gulp baits slow-dragged along the bottom.
- Striped Bass – 20–36 inches Winter species near bridges and channels. Troll deep-diving plugs or jig soft plastics vertically.
- Mahi Mahi – 5–30 pounds Summer offshore target. Trolled with ballyhoo or artificial lures near weedlines in the Gulf Stream.
- Yellowfin Tuna – 30–80 pounds Found offshore spring through summer. Trolled baits or chunked sardines near temperature breaks.
- Bluefin Tuna – 100–300+ pounds Occasional winter and early spring runs offshore. Trolled horse ballyhoo or vertical jigs when weather allows.
- White Marlin – 60–90 pounds Summer to early fall offshore target. Trolled ballyhoo in spread behind outriggers.
- Spanish Mackerel – 2–5 pounds Summer nearshore favorite. Fast trolling with spoons or casting flashy lures around bait balls.
Nags Head Fishing FAQs
What types of fishing charters are available in Nags Head?
June through August is considered peak season, with ideNags Head offers inshore, nearshore, and offshore charters. Inshore trips fish the sounds and marshes, while offshore trips run out of Oregon Inlet to the Gulf Stream.al weather and the widest variety of species available.
How far do offshore charters run from Nags Head?
Most offshore boats leave from Oregon Inlet and run 30 to 40 miles to reach the Gulf Stream, depending on the bite and conditions.
What’s the best season to fish in Nags Head?
Spring and fall are prime for inshore action, while summer is best for offshore trips targeting mahi, tuna, and billfish.
Are fishing licenses included on Nags Head charters?
Yes, all licensed charter boats in Nags Head include your fishing license as part of the trip.
Where do inshore trips usually fish?
Most inshore charters focus on Roanoke Sound, fishing grass flats, creeks, and bridge pilings for trout, drum, and flounder.
Can beginners book a charter in this area?
Absolutely—Nags Head captains run trips for all experience levels, and many offer kid-friendly, half-day inshore trips.
What’s the deal with Oregon Inlet?
Oregon Inlet is the main pass for offshore access near Nags Head. It’s a dynamic waterway, and local knowledge is key to navigating it safely.
What should I bring on a charter?
Bring sun protection, snacks, drinks, and weather-appropriate clothing. Most boats provide tackle, bait, and licenses.
Are there options if the weather turns bad?
Yes, many Nags Head guides will switch to inshore trips or reschedule if offshore weather gets rough.
