Wilmington, NC Fish Species

Common Questions:

What fish species can I catch in Wilmington, NC?

• In Wilmington, NC, anglers can catch a variety of species, including tuna, marlin, mahi-mahi, flounder, redfish, and speckled trout, among others.

When is the best time to catch tuna?

• The best time for tuna fishing in Wilmington typically spans from late spring through early fall, when these fish are most active and plentiful in the area.

Are there good spots for inshore fishing?

• Yes, Wilmington offers excellent inshore fishing spots, particularly around estuaries, tidal creeks, and nearshore reefs, where you can catch species like flounder and redfish.

What is the size limit for catching redfish in NC?

• In North Carolina, the size limit for redfish (or red drum) is typically 18 to 27 inches, and anglers are allowed to keep one fish per person per day within that size range.

Can I catch marlin year-round?

• Marlin fishing in Wilmington is best from late spring to early fall. While they can be caught year-round, the peak season offers the highest chances of a successful catch.

What bait is most effective for catching mahi-mahi?

• Live bait such as ballyhoo or small tuna works well for mahi-mahi, but trolling with artificial lures or strips can also yield great results.

Are there specific seasons for speckled trout fishing?

• Speckled trout fishing is best during the cooler months, from late fall to early spring, when they are more abundant in the inshore waters.

Do I need special equipment to catch larger species like marlin?

• While we provide all necessary fishing gear, larger species like marlin require heavier tackle. Captain David Tripp ensures that all equipment is suitable for targeting these impressive fish.

What’s the difference between inshore and offshore fishing?

• Inshore fishing typically takes place in shallower waters close to the coast, targeting species like flounder and redfish, while offshore fishing involves deeper waters where you can catch larger species like tuna and marlin.

Are there any catch-and-release guidelines I should be aware of?

• Yes, catch-and-release practices are encouraged for certain species to help conserve fish populations. Captain David Tripp will provide guidance on which species are best suited for catch-and-release during your trip.

A MaTunaHoo Sportfishing Fishing Charter targets the top Wilmington, NC Fish species including Gag Grouper (Also Called Charcoal Belly, Velvet Rockfish, Grouper ), Greater Amberjack (Also Called Great Amberfish, Jenny Lind, Rock Salmon, Doronado, Madregal, Amberjack), Atlantic Bonito (Also Called Bloater, Bone Jack, Bonito, Boston Mackerel, Common Bonito, Skipjack), Common Dolphinfish (Also Called Dolphin, Dolphinfish, Common Dolphin, Mahi-Mahi, Dorado, Dourade ), Snowy Grouper (Also Called Golden Grouper, Brownie), King Mackerel (Also Called Kingfish, Spanish Mackerel ), Atlantic Sailfish (Also Called ), Spanish Mackerel (Also Called Atlantic Spanish Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel), Bigeye Tuna (Also Called Ahi), Blackfin Tuna (Also Called Deep-Bodied Tunny ), Wahoo (Also Called Ono, Ono Malani, Hoo, Pacific Kingfish, Malata kingfish, Queen fish, Paala, Paere, Peto, Sierra, Solandra, Serra-da India, Kamasu-Sawara, Acantocibio, Cavala de India, Keskas, Kin Fis, Mersad, Kinkfish, Peto, Guarapucu, Thazard batard), Yellowfin Tuna (Also Called Ahi). We primarily Fish the Atlantic Ocean.