Can You Fish Off the Beach in Emerald Isle, NC?

Heading out on vacation to Emerald Isle, NC? How exciting! Our gorgeous coastal town is famous for its family-oriented, small-town atmosphere, and we’re proud to host visitors for vacations year after year. There’s a lot to do when you travel here with your family, but one of our favorite activities is fishing in Emerald Isle.

The term fishing, in general, can mean a range of activities, from deep sea charters to shoreline fishing with the kids. If you’re looking for family-friendly activities, you’re in the right place. We’re here to answer all of your questions about fishing in Emerald Isle!

After all, there’s a lot to consider when it comes to fishing here: Can you fish off the beach? Do you need a fishing license? Is there somewhere you can rent equipment if you’re flying in?

Let’s explore the most frequently asked questions about fishing in Emerald Isle.

Can You Fish Off the Beach in Emerald Isle, NC?

Yes, you can! Many people fish off the beach in Emerald Isle, NC. Most people take part in an activity we call surf fishing, or they fish off of one of the docks in Emerald Isle.

What is Surf Fishing?

Surf fishing is a very popular local activity. If you haven’t heard the term before, you may be unfamiliar with what this means.

No worries! Plenty of first-time visitors haven’t heard of surf fishing before. Surf fishing is a type of fishing where you cast your line from the shore or wade into the surf to catch fish. You can surf fish from almost anywhere!

Why Do People Choose Surf Fishing?

Most people choose to surf fish because it’s easy and convenient. There’s no need to spend your whole day on a deep-sea fishing charter to catch fish; you can do it right from the shoreline! Plus, you can teach your little ones how to fish this way as well, without all the bells and whistles (and added expenses!) of a more extensive voyage.

Where Can You Fish off the Beach in Emerald Isle, NC?

Well, the town maintains 75+ beach accesses, so there’s always somewhere to experience the water. You can fish off many public beaches in the area, but our favorite spot is the Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier in Emerald Isle, NC.

This Emerald Isle fishing pier has seen generations of anglers pass through, casting lines and making memories to last a lifetime. Many vacationers love to sunbathe on the beach here as well, so if some family members aren’t interested in fishing, Bogue Inlet is a good compromise. The pier has a blanket fishing license, so you don't need to worry about getting a license if you only plan to fish here and aren't going to venture into any surf fishing.

Do I Need a License to Fish in Emerald Isle, NC?

Yes, all anglers over sixteen years old must purchase a license for surf fishing. Luckily, obtaining a fishing license is easy to do. Visit North Carolina’s official website to purchase yours before your trip! 

Note: Before you head out on your trip, check out North Carolina's Rules, Regulations and Bag Limits to see what kinds of fish you can catch and keep. There are limits to how many kinds of fish you can bring home, and it's illegal to take some out of the water! 

How Long Is My Fishing License Good For?

You can purchase a North Carolina fishing license for a lifetime, annual, or 10-day period, and it can be combined with various permits issued by the Wildlife Resources Commission. The 10-day license is only $11, so it’s well worth your while if you catch a few dinners from the ocean!

What Kinds of Fish Can You Catch in Emerald Isle, NC?

There are a variety of fish in the waters of North Carolina. In 2024, the Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier saw Sea Mullet, Spanish Mackerel, Bluefish, Pompano, Black Drum, Puppy Drum, and Sheepshead Catches. Flounder are also quite plentiful in Emerald Isle; they’re found in inlets and best caught by surf fishers! Other local fish include Cobia, Striped Bass, Pufferfish, and Grouper.

Where Can I Rent Equipment to Surf Fish in Emerald Isle, NC?

You can rent equipment right at Bogue Inlet Pier! It’s easy and affordable—purchase a rod, pier pass, bait, and tackle for under $40. Visitors can also explore local options like The Reel Outdoors for bait options or other gear, but they don’t do rentals, so you’re keeping what you buy!

When Is the Best Time of Year to Go Surf Fishing in Emerald Isle, NC?

The best times to go fishing in Emerald Isle, NC, are generally considered to be late summer/early fall (September-October) and spring, as some of the best catches happen in transition between the seasons. These transitional seasons are the best time to go surf fishing, especially!

However, the “best” time to fish is subjective and depends on what you are trying to catch. Those trying to reel in a flounder will have the best luck in the heat of the summer when these fish move closer to the shore from the ocean reefs! We recommend heading out early in the morning or later in the evening when the Emerald Isle fishing pier is less crowded.

Are There Any Fishing Tournaments or Events in Emerald Isle?

Yes! The Emerald Isle Fall Fishing Tournament occurs—you guessed it—every fall here. The 2025 date is slated for September 27th, 2025. The tournament fosters community engagement, environmental stewardship, and educational advancement. The grand prize is a whopping $10,000, with additional secondary prizes to win as well. Try your hand at the Emerald Isle Fall Fishing Tournament this September!

Book Your Vacation to Emerald Isle Directly with Sun Surf Realty!

Wow! Now that you know all the places you can fish off the beach in Emerald Isle, you’re more than prepared for your vacation. All that’s left to do is book your accommodations.

When choosing the right vacation rental, we know there’s much to consider. Maybe you want to be able to bring along your four-legged friend, so you need a pet-friendly Emerald Isle rental. Or perhaps you’re craving an oceanfront or oceanside rental to take in all the best views before heading out on your fishing adventure.

No matter what you’re looking for, we’re confident we have the vacation rental to fit your needs. Browse our available Emerald Isle Vacation Rentals now and book your next trip directly with Sun Surf Realty!