Ocracoke Island Fishing
Got a thing about fish? Ocracoke Island’s fishing scene will make you happy. With mile after mile of undeveloped shoreline, surf fishing is popular, especially since you can drive along until you see just the right spot. And for those with their own boat, the waters surrounding Ocracoke Island are rich fish-hunting territory.
Some of Ocracoke’s accommodations pay special attention to anglers. The marinas at The Anchorage Inn or Jolly Roger are where you go to schedule Gulf Stream or inshore fishing charters or to rent a small boat for your own adventure. The Harborside and Pony Island motels both provide boat docks, and there’s also a ramp at Harborside. The Castle Bed and Breakfast also has dockage that’s open for guests to use.
Two local tackle shops provide all the gear, bait and supplies you need. And the friendly owners and staff will gladly help out with advice on what anglers can expect from Ocracoke Island fishing. Remember…there’s a reason they call it fishing and not catching. So, go out there and relax. Take in Ocracoke’s natural beauty and calm atmosphere. Then if you catch dinner too, it’s just all the sweeter.
Note that all saltwater anglers are required to buy the N.C. Coastal Recreational Fishing License. The license can be purchased on a 10-day, annual or lifetime basis or combined with other licenses issued by the Wildlife Resources Commission. Children younger than 16 do not need a license. For-hire vessels and ocean fishing piers have the option to purchase a blanket license that covers all their fishing patrons, so you may not need the license to fish on a certain pier or charter boat; be sure to ask. Fishing licenses can be purchased at the local tackle shops, online at www.ncwildlife.org or by calling (888) 248-6834.
Remember, Irvin Garrish Highway is also known as N.C. Highway 12.
Miss Teresa
- National Park Service Docks
- Ocracoke
- (252) 928-7835 or (252) 588-0601
Get schooled by Albert O’Neal, the captain of the charter boat, Miss Teresa and an island native from a family of fishermen. His wealth of local knowledge and gentle manner will benefit inshore fishermen and fisher-families in search of red drum, Spanish mackerel, cobia, flounder and other tasty delights. Full or half-day charters include ice, bait, tackle, fish-cleaning, anecdotes and tips. Captain O’Neal will pick you up at the National Park Service Docks, across from the Park Service Visitor Center in the village or from your lodging if you are located on the harbor. Call him to set up your fishing date!
Tradewinds Bait & Tackle
- 1094 Irvin Garrish Highway
- Ocracoke
- (252) 928-5491
There’s no question that Ocracoke is an angler’s paradise. When you’re ready to sink a line, head here for bait, tackle, rod repairs, fishing reports and advice. It’s also a great spot to measure, photograph and brag about your catch and pick up citations. They’re open daily from 6:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. in the summer.
O’Neal’s Dockside II Tackleshop
- 800 Irvin Garrish Highway
- Ocracoke
- (252) 928-1111
O’Neal’s offers a huge selection of bait and tackle and rods and reels. Fishing advice is free, and fishing gear is available for rent. O’Neal’s also stocks much-needed camping supplies, boating supplies and beach gear.
