5 Pressing Questions Answered: Fishing in Emerald Isle
*UPDATED OCTOBER 2018
1. Where should I go fishing in Emerald Isle?
You have several awesome fishing options here in Emerald Isle. Try one or try them all! Unless you're pier fishing or on a charter boat, you'll need to purchase a North Carolina fishing license. So don't forget that before you head out for the day. (More on that later in this blog.)
Pier Fishing in Emerald Isle
As you are in Emerald Isle for your vacation, there is one place for family fishing that you will not want to miss out on: The Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier. Located at 100 Bogue Inlet Drive, this is the best place around for pier fishing and makes for the perfect family fishing outing.
With remodeling now complete, check out the new Pier House with fishing equipment (they have rod rentals), snacks, pier beer, and fun things for everyone. The Bogue Pier Inlet also has another new addition: Surf's Up Bar and Grill located adjacent to the Pier House. The reviews are in and we're hearing good things! Check out the Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier website for more information and be sure to follow the Bogue Inlet Pier on Facebook for the latest catches and daily features.
Surf Fishing on Emerald Isle Beach
If pier fishing is not your thing, then that's okay. There are plenty of other options for you! Step out of your oceanfront Emerald Isle vacation rental and try some surf fishing. Cast your line into the Atlantic and see what's biting. You just never know what you might reel in.
Fishing Emerald Isle's Soundside Waters
If you're staying in a soundside Emerald Isle vacation rental, you're also only steps away from some awesome fishing. Drop a line right from your own dock or hop on a kayak and paddle out on the local waters and find your perfect fishing spot.
Emerald Isle Charter Fishing
Learn from the local experts and embark on a fishing charter. Hop aboard and see what fishing adventures await you on the open seas! Emerald Isle has several fishing charter excursions to choose from, so check out these local links to learn more.
2. What kinds of fish can I catch?
Casting out your line while feeling the sun on your face couldn’t get any nicer—at least that is what you think until you get a tug on your pole and pull up your first catch of the day. Priceless!
No matter which season it is, there is always a bounty of fish ready and waiting for you. We guarantee that you'll fall in love with fishing in Emerald Isle hook, line and sinker.
Visit the Fisherman's Post Weekly Fishing Reports for Emerald Isle and see what's biting and what's being caught right now.
You can also visit the North Carolina Wildlife website to see what seasonal fish are swimming through the local waters in any given season.
3. Do I need a fishing license?
Well that depends on where you're fishing.
Pier fishing and charter fishing are covered by a blanket license so you won't need one for those.
If you're doing any other type of fishing in the ocean or in the soundside waters of Emerald Isle, you will.
4. What kinds of equipment do I need?
You will need to make sure that you have a fishing pole suited for the type of fishing you're doing, along with the right kind of bait or lures.
A cooler with some ice is helpful to have, too, to contain your catch of the day and keep it chilled.
That’s really all you need!
If you don’t have your own fishing equipment, you can rent some at the pier itself, even getting a package deal with your pier pass.
Don't be afraid to stop into the local Emerald Isle bait and tackle shops to ask some questions. You can ask the attendants for help determining what kind of bait is best for catching certain kinds of fish. They are not only friendly, but incredibly knowledgable about the local waters as well. The same holds true for the local anglers you encounter. Strike up a conversation and ask them a few questions! You can't go wrong by consulting the local experts who most likely fish these waters on a regular basis and have years of experience fishing the Carolina coastline.
5. Where can I get more information?
You can read more about fishing on the Crystal Coast of North Carolina in our previous post.
We hope that you are getting excited to be outside with your line in the water. Fishing is one of the best ways to enjoy the beautiful weather, salty sea breeze, and time with your family. And hey, if you get a good catch you’ll not only be having a good time, but you’ll be having a great dinner that can be made right in your Emerald Isle rental kitchen, too. Get hooked on fishing in Emerald Isle today!
Have you gone fishing in Emerald Isle?
What are your stories about the "one that got away?" Come on, we know you have them!