Best Times & Seasons to Fish in Cape Hatteras, NC (Guide)
Cape Hatteras is one of the best places to go fishing as an angler or hobbyist. Being miles from the mainland makes it a perfect place for every ambitious angler. Cape Hatteras is a good choice of location if you intend to explore and enjoy every bit of your fishing adventure.
The best time to go on fishing in Cape Hatteras is during autumn. You can go fishing from September to October when you can successfully catch fish like bluefish, mackerel, billfish, and more. You can go surf fishing at any time of the year or season in the outer banks.
| Fish Species | Best Times to Fish in Cape Hatteras Waters |
| Atlantic Sailfish | June through September is the hot season for sailfish. |
| Blue Marlin | Summer is the best season. June through September are the best fishing months. |
| Yellowfin Tuna | July through November are the best fishing months. |
| Wahoo | April through December offer the best wahoo fishing opportunities. |
| Redfish | Year-round availability. March & April as well as September through November are best. |
The fishing adventure in Cape Hatteras can be one of the things you wish for. The landscape, water features, resources, climatic conditions, and other factors contribute to the convenience and success of fishing. Visit Cape Hatteras to explore every of your fishing fantasies and create a memorable experience from it.
Best Times to Fish Cape Hatteras
Fishing in the waters of Cape Hatteras is one thing many ambitious anglers look up to. Aside from housing varieties of fish species, the waters of Cape Hatteras also provide great scenery for every viewer. You can get engulfed in the beauty of this location while on your fishing escapade, but you have to put some factors into consideration.
You have to know the best time to fish in the waters of Cape Hatteras. There are times when you have little chance of success, and you can get the most success during fishing. Knowing will ensure your fishing experience becomes a massive success.
The best time to fish in Cape Hatteras is during autumn. You get to experience the most fishing success during September and October. You can harvest different species of fish like croakers, trouts, mackerels, and lots more.
Surf fishing, however, does not require a specific time of the year. You can go surf fishing any time of the year at the outer banks of the water. Enjoy and experience the best surf fishing and normal fishing in Cape Hatteras.
For a complete breakdown of the best times to fish in the Outer Banks, please check out this helpful article I wrote.
I recommend this Penn Pursuit Spinning Rod & Reel combo (available on Amazon) for inshore and nearshore fishing. It can handle everything from redfish to snapper and king mackerel. The Penn Battalion Series Spinning Rod and the Penn Battle Spinning Reel are fantastic to create your combo.
Cape Hatteras Species Breakdown: Best Time
One of the beauties Cape Hatteras offers is the variety of fish species in its waters. There are several species of fish you will find in the waters of Cape Hatteras. These marine beauties serve a lot of purposes, both subsistence and commercial purposes.
Here are some fish species you will find in Cape Hatteras.
Atlantic Sailfish
The Atlantic sailfish is one of the species of fish you will find in the waters of Cape Hatteras. They belong to the family Istiophoridae and order Perciformes. They are a beauty to behold, and they serve several functions to people in Hatteras and beyond.
The best season for fishing the Atlantic sailfish is the summer. There is a higher chance of catching this species of fish from June to September. Many anglers focus their fishing energy during this season, and they don’t get disappointed.
One of the best times of the day to fish the Atlantic sailfish is during the early hours of the evening. This is the time most Atlantic sailfish are vulnerable to being caught by anglers. You can also sail out in the morning to fish the Atlantic sailfish.
One of the best places to fish Atlantic sailfish is the waters of Wrightsville beach. Visiting and fishing in this water will provide Atlantic sailfish as a jewel for you.
Yellowfin Tuna
The yellowfin tuna is one of the fish species you will find in the waters of Cape Hatteras. It is closely related to regular tuna but has arguably more tasty meat. Adult yellowfin tuna usually weighs about 30 lbs. to 100 lbs.
If you want the best result from fishing yellowfin tuna, you should go fishing during late summer and late autumn. You should fish from April to June or the month of October to December. Fishing during these periods assures you of high fishing success.
You should carry out your fishing activities between dusk and dawn to enable a higher catch of the yellowfin tuna. Set out at dusk and begin your fishing till dawn while you gather your harvest.
One of the best locations for fishing the yellowfin tuna in Cape Hatteras is the mid-Atlantic. You get to have a higher chance of success when fishing in this location. There are also several other locations for fishing the yellowfin tuna in Hatteras.
Blue Marlin
The blue marlin is one of the most common fish species in the Hatteras waters. It has a unique body shape that distinguishes it from several other fish species. It has an elongated body shape and a pointed snout. It is a good choice of sport fish for most anglers in Hatteras.
Summer is the best season for fishing the blue marlin. You should set out for your marlin fishing from June to August. You can also choose to fish the blue marlin during other seasons or months, but the summer is your best chance at it.
Fishing the blue marlin is advisable to be done at dawn or dusk. Many anglers experience more success during these times than at any other time of the day. The conditions during these times also support easy and convenient fishing activities.
One of the best and most favorable locations for fishing the blue marlin is the south of Cape Hatteras. The blue marlin tend to patrol offshore, providing the best chance for anglers to shoot their fishing shot.
Wahoo
The wahoo is the speedsters of the Cape Hatteras waters. They gained their name from the blistering runs they make when trying to grab a bait. They are commonly found in the Cape Hatteras, providing food and income for anglers.
Although the speed of wahoo makes it difficult for anglers to catch them, their availability serves as a compliment. You can fish for this fish species in summer, autumn, and even winter—fish for wahoo from April through December.
Wahoo fishing can be a bit easier if you know the right time to go fishing. The best time to fish for wahoo is early in the morning or late in the evening. Ensure a higher chance of success in your fishing endeavors by choosing the right time of the day.
One of the best locations for fishing wahoo is the gulf stream. The water in this location is usually warmer, aiding the presence of wahoo. Enjoy your fishing adventures in Cape Hatteras by choosing the best location.
Red Drum (Redfish)
The red drum, also known as redfish, is a fish species commonly found in Cape Hatteras. It is a game fish with channel bass and puppy drum. It also has a spot tail bass that gives it a unique appearance.
The best season to fish the red drum is spring and fall. You can go fishing in March through April and September through November. Give yourself a successful fishing trip in the perfect season.
The best time to catch red drum is in the morning before the sun heats the water. Red drum-like cool waters, so they will retreat to the deeper part of the water where it is cool and contain more baits. Set out in the morning and enjoy your fishing activities.
The best location for red fishing drums in Cape Hatteras is the outer banks of Cape Point. It is one of the most popular spots for catching red drums in Cape Hatteras. You can also get fascinating scenery to gaze your sight on.
For a complete breakdown of the best times to catch redfish, please check out this helpful article I wrote.
Recommended Fishing Charters in Cape Hatteras
These Cape Hatteras-based charters have earned great reviews from anglers and will offer you a tremendous service. The captains are knowledgeable, friendly, and are sure to put you on fish. By clicking the links below, you will be taken to the charter’s respective profile on Fishing Booker where you can read reviews, learn more about the charter, view photos, and book online at the best rate.
| Recommended Fishing Charters | Type of Fishing Offered |
| Predator Sport Fishing Hatteras | Inshore, Offshore & Billfish |
| Seas The Day NC | Inshore, Offshore & Billfish |
| Team Dempsey Guide Service | Inshore & Nearshore |
| Rabid Tuna Sportfishing Charters | Offshore & Billfish |
| Dunn Deal Sportfishing | Inshore, Offshore & Billfish |
| Flatland Charters | Inshore & Offshore |
| Godspeed Charters | Inshore, Offshore & Billfish |
Storms & Hatteras Fishing
Tropical storms or rainstorms affect fishing in Hatteras. After a rainstorm, fishes tend to experience dormancy, causing low enthusiasm for food. Once they are not eager to eat, taking the bait that will lead them to be caught becomes difficult.
You can, however, still make success with fishing after rainstorms. But you will have to take a better and skillful approach to fish.
Is Winter Fishing Bad or Good in Cape Hatteras?
Winter fishing is good in Cape Hatteras. And this is mostly due to the warm waters of the gulf stream. You can experience successful fishing in the winter as much as you will do during other seasons.
Night Fishing in Cape Hatteras
Night fishing can be highly productive in Cape Hatteras. You can also take part in night fishing, but it is mostly restricted to anglers an hour after sunset and an hour before sunrise. Enjoy your fishing adventure in Cape Hatteras.
Shore/Surf Fishing: Best Times & Seasons
Shore/surf fishing is also a good way to make a good catch. You can surf fish during the day or at night, depending on several factors. Surf fishing during the night is arguably more productive than fishing during the day. You can also surf fish during Cape Hatteras and still experience successful fishing during any time of the year.
Best Time of Day to Fish Cape Hatteras
Fishing in Cape Hatteras is fascinating. You should harness your top fishing skills by catching different varieties of fish at the right time of the day. Knowing the right time to go fishing will assure you of greater success.
The best time to fish in Cape Hatteras is in the morning or at dusk. Most fish species in Hatteras feed during these times, making it easy for you to catch them. Set out to make your catch in the morning about three hours before noon or an hour or two before sunset.
Top 5 Fishing Spots in Cape Hatteras: Best Times
There are several places you can fish in Cape Hatteras. These places provide you with varieties of fish species to catch. They also provide you with several side attractions and other resources needed for your fishing adventure.
Here are some of the fishing spots in Cape Hatteras.
Hatteras Inlet
The Hatteras inlet houses varieties of fish species for anglers. It also offers different sizes of fish, ranging from large predators to smaller prey. It is best to fish at the Hatteras inlet at night to have a chance at catching the most fish.
Cape Point
Cape point is one of the best fishing spots in Cape Hatteras. The point directs into the sea where the gulf current and the Labrador meet. This fishing spot is famous for large fish like cobia, sharks, red drum, and many more.
Gulf Stream
The gulf stream is located about 30 miles from the mainland. Although it might be a bit far to reach, you will be rewarded with various species of fish. The gulf stream is the home to fish species like bluefin, white marlin, yellowfin tuna, wahoo, blue marlin, and many more.
The Rock Pile
The rock pile is located south of Cape Point with about 180 feet of water. It is a perfect spot for billfish, wahoo, and several other fish species. The Rockpile is what you are visiting as it offers different species of fish and excellent scenery.
Pamlico Sound
The Pamlico sound is one of the largest fishing spots in Cape Hatteras. It is a good spot for fishing red drums as you will find them in large quantities in the water. You can also catch several other species of fish at different times of the day.
Booking Charters in Cape Hatteras
Fishing in Cape Hatteras can be as much fun as you want. However, you can be discouraged from your fishing adventure if you stay outside the boundaries of Cape Hatteras or far from the fishing spot. This is why you have booking charters in Cape Hatteras to suit every of your transportation issues.
For a complete breakdown of the best charters in the Outer Banks, please check out this helpful article I wrote.
Book your charter to enjoy your fishing adventure in Cape Hatteras.
Best Season to Go
Cape Hatteras has a lot of attractions for all and sundry. But you might be unlucky to get the reduced version of these attractions if you do not go at the right time. You have to know what season or time of the year best supports your utmost adventure.
The best season to book your charter to Cape Hatteras is autumn. You can visit Cape Hatteras anytime between September and December. You get to enjoy so many side attractions, excellent climatic conditions, adequate resources, and a top-notch fishing adventure.
Cape Hatteras can be a very busy location at times. There are times when human activities are at their peak, and even fish activities are also going on. This time of the season is usually the summer. It falls between mid-June and late August.
Spring is one of the seasons that leave you with tough fishing adventures. Anglers tend to experience difficulty during this season, causing them to catch little or no fish all day. This causes a reduction in the demand for fish and other fish-related resources. But this does not stop fishing from being awesome.
Morning vs. Afternoon
Morning charter is always the best in Cape Hatteras. The morning view of the Hatteras landscape is one thing you don’t want to miss on your adventure. You also get to enjoy your charter in a cool, refreshed state.
There are different types of charter trips you can book in Cape Hatteras. There are half-day trips, full-day trips, and multi-day trips.
Half-Day Trips
Half-day charter trips only include 4 to 5 hours of service from the charter agency. This is usually the cheapest of all charter trips as you only have to pay for lesser hours. It also allows you to do other things and schedule your day well.
But it also has its disadvantages. You get to miss out on some of the attractions as you do not have limited places to visit with your paid time.
Full-Day Trips
The full-day trip is quite different and better than the half-day charter trips. It is more expensive than the half-day trip but provides you with more hours of transportation enjoyment. The full-day charter provides you with 10 to 12 hours of service.
Although this trip is expensive, it provides you with your transportation needs and requirements for the day. You also get to harness the best of your adventure in Cape Hatteras.
Multi-Day Trip
As the name implies, this charter trip provides services for more than one day. Depending on your subscribed plan, you get to enjoy transportation services for two days, three days, or even a week. This is usually the most expensive of all charter trips.
With a multi-day charter trip, you get to enjoy several charter advantages. You get to visit the places you want to visit without any issues. You get to enjoy the goodies of Cape Hatteras.
