Seasonal Fishing Guide for Carolina, Kure & Wrightsville Beach

The Carolina coast around Carolina Beach, Kure Beach and Wrightsville Beach offers year-round fishing opportunities—with each season bringing its own unique angling experiences. Whether you’re casting from shore, a pier or out on a charter, here’s what to expect throughout the year:

Spring (March to June)

As the water warms, fishing comes alive across Carolina Beach, Kure Beach, and Wrightsville Beach.

Inshore: Red drum and speckled trout become more active.
Nearshore: Bluefish and Spanish mackerel return to the coastline.
Offshore: Yellowfin tuna, blackfin tuna, and wahoo begin to bite.

Tip: Spring is ideal for inshore trips targeting flounder, trout, and red drum as they feed in shallower waters.

Summer (June to August)

Summer brings peak fishing activity to Carolina Beach, Kure Beach and Wrightsville Beach:

Inshore: Flounder, red drum, and spotted seatrout are abundant.
Offshore: Mahi mahi, wahoo, and several tuna species thrive in warmer waters.
Pier & Surf: Great action for Spanish and king mackerel.

Note: Early mornings and evenings are best for pier and surf fishing, when the water is cooler and fish are feeding close to shore.

Fall (September to November)

Fall delivers some of the best fishing of the year along the Cape Fear coast.

Inshore: Redfish and speckled trout reach their seasonal peak.
Offshore: King mackerel, wahoo, and sailfish are strong targets.
Flounder: Remains a favorite catch in inlets and nearshore reefs.

Highlight: Cooler temps, calmer seas, and fewer crowds make fall a favorite season for both anglers and beachgoers.

Winter (December to February)

Even in the cooler months, there’s still plenty to reel in.

Inshore: Black drum and redfish stay active in deeper channels.
Offshore: Look for bluefin tuna and black sea bass runs.
Trout: Speckled trout linger in protected areas through early winter.

Tip: Dress in layers and aim for sunny afternoons — the calm, quiet conditions make for peaceful fishing days.

Year-Round Fishing

Some species can be found in all three beach towns no matter the season:

Red drum (redfish)
Black drum
Bluefish

Before heading out, be sure to have a valid North Carolina Saltwater Fishing License and check the latest regulations for size and catch limits.

Whether you’re chasing a trophy catch or simply enjoying a quiet morning by the water, Carolina Beach, Kure Beach, and Wrightsville Beach offer endless ways to experience the coast. From the thrill of reeling in your first red drum to the calm of casting at sunset, every trip here connects you to the ocean in a new way — and keeps you coming back season after season.