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Best Baits for Surf Fishing in NC

  • Writer: Jimmy Eaker
    Jimmy Eaker
  • Apr 23
  • 2 min read




Live Bait: The Natural Choice

Live bait is highly effective in these waters, especially for targeting red drum, speckled trout, and flounder.

  • Shrimp – A top bait for speckled trout and flounder.

  • Sand Fleas (Mole Crabs) – Ideal for catching pompano, red drum, which thrive in the surf.

  • Mullet – Finger mullet are excellent for red drum, bluefish, and black drum.

  • Mud Minnows – A favorite for flounder, especially near inlets.


2. Cut Bait: Easy and Effective

Cut bait releases scent into the water, attracting fish from a distance.

  • Cut Mullet – A staple for red drum, bluefish, and sharks.

  • Menhaden (Bunker) – Great for striped bass and big drum.

  • Squid – Works well for bottom-feeders like flounder and stingrays.


3. Artificial Lures: For the Active Angler

Artificial lures are effective for anglers who prefer an active approach.

  • Soft Plastic Swimbaits – Mimic small baitfish and are great for flounder and speckled trout.

  • Spoons – Metal spoons attract bluefish and Spanish mackerel.

  • Topwater Lures – If targeting striped bass, topwater poppers provide explosive action.


Best Surf Fishing Spots in Cape Hatteras & Ocracoke

  • Cape Point (Cape Hatteras) – Famous for big red drum and bluefish.

  • Ocracoke Island Beaches – Great for red drum, pompano, flounder, and speckled trout.

  • Hatteras Inlet – Offers a mix of red drum, trout, and flounder.

  • South Point (Ocracoke) – Known for large drum and sharks.


Local Bait & Tackle Shops

If you need bait, tackle, or local fishing advice, check out:

  • Tradewinds Tackle in Ocracoke – A well-stocked shop specializing in surf, inshore, and offshore fishing.

  • Frank & Fran’s The Fisherman’s Friend in Avon – An excellent spot for bait and tackle.

  • Predator Sport Fishing in Hatteras – Specializes in offshore and inshore fishing.

  • Tradition Fishing in Hatteras – Focuses on light tackle fishing for red drum, trout, and flounder.


Fishing Charters & Guides

If you’re looking for a guided fishing experience, consider:

  • Miss Hatteras Head Boats – Offers offshore Gulf Stream fishing and inshore fishing.

  • Chaser Sportfishing – A 48-foot custom Carolina boat built for Outer Banks waters.

  • Hatteras Blue Sportfishing – Specializes in deep-sea fishing.


Tips for Success

  • Match the hatch – Use bait that naturally occurs in OBX waters.

  • Fish the troughs – Look for deeper areas near sandbars where fish gather.

  • Check the tides – Incoming tides often bring feeding fish closer to shore.

With the right bait and strategy, Cape Hatteras and Ocracoke surf fishing can be incredibly rewarding. Tight lines and happy fishing! 🎣

 
 
 

Komen

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