Expert-Guided Inshore Fishing in Atlantic Beach

Black Sea Bass

Black sea bass are a popular target for anglers along the Atlantic Beach coast, prized for their firm, flavorful meat and exciting fight. These bottom-dwelling fish are commonly found near wrecks, reefs, and rocky structures, making them a favorite for anglers who enjoy wreck and reef fishing. Their season typically peaks in the warmer months, offering ample opportunity to catch these tasty fish in North Carolina’s inshore and offshore waters.

Fishing for black sea bass requires skillful techniques and the right equipment, as they tend to stay close to the ocean floor. Using natural bait like squid or cut bait often yields the best results, especially when combined with a steady drop near structure. Whether you’re a novice or experienced angler, pursuing black sea bass adds variety and challenge to any fishing trip, making it a rewarding species to target with Local Knowledge Charters.

Bluefish

Bluefish are the ocean's pit bulls - all muscle and teeth. These aggressive predators typically run 3-5 pounds but can top 20 pounds. You'll find them terrorizing bait schools from spring through fall, often creating frenzied "blitzes" at the surface. Blues will hit just about any lure or bait, but metal spoons and poppers work great. Use wire leaders to prevent bite-offs. They put up a mean fight, often jumping and tail-walking across the surface. Just watch those chompers when handling them. Bluefish make good eating when prepared right. Bleed them immediately and get them on ice. For the best flavor, try grilling or smoking smaller fish under 5 pounds. These voracious feeders will often push bait right up to the beach. If you see birds diving near shore, grab a rod and get casting. The action can be non-stop when you find a blitz. Word to the wise: Always check for size and bag limits on blues, as regulations can change seasonally.

King Mackerel

Black sea bass are a popular target around here, especially in late spring and summer when they move inshore. You'll find these stocky little fighters hanging around structures like wrecks, reefs, and rocky bottoms in waters up to 120 feet deep. Most weigh in under 4 pounds, but they can reach up to 8 pounds or more. These fish put up a scrappy fight on light tackle. Use a medium-weight rod with 20-30 pound line and bottom rigs baited with squid or cut fish. For an added challenge, try jigging or casting plugs near structure. Black sea bass make excellent table fare with firm, white meat. Interestingly, they're all born female and some later change to male. The bigger males, which can turn bright blue during spawning, tend to hang in deeper water. One local tip: If you're not getting bites, try downsizing your hooks and bait. Sometimes the smaller offerings will trigger more strikes from finicky sea bass.

Sea Trout

Sea trout, also called spotted seatrout, are a favorite inshore target around here. These silvery fish with dark spots typically run 1-3 pounds, though gator trout over 5 pounds aren't uncommon. You'll find them in estuaries, grass flats, and around structures like docks and oyster bars. Spring and fall are prime seasons when water temps are moderate. Sea trout are ambush predators, so work lures like soft plastics or topwater plugs near drop-offs and other structure. Live shrimp under a popping cork is always a good bet too. Anglers love sea trout for their willingness to hit lures and their delicate, white meat. They put up a decent fight, often making short runs and head shakes. Just be careful not to horse them in, as they have soft mouths that tear easily. Here's a local tip: On calm mornings, look for subtle v-wakes moving across grass flats. That's often a cruising trout looking for an easy meal. Make a long cast ahead of its path for your best shot.

Spanish Mackerel

Spanish mackerel are speed demons that'll test your reflexes. These sleek, spotted fish typically run 1-2 feet long and 2-4 pounds. You'll find them cruising in large schools near the surface, often chasing bait fish. They're most active here from late spring through fall when water temps warm up. Look for them around inlets, piers, and just offshore. Spanish macks are lightning fast, so be ready for explosive strikes. Light tackle with 10-15 pound line works great. Try casting small spoons, jigs, or live bait like finger mullet. Anglers love targeting Spanish mackerel for their aggressive fights and acrobatic leaps. They're also excellent eating, with firm, flavorful meat that's great grilled or smoked. Just be careful of those razor-sharp teeth when unhooking them. Pro tip: If you see birds diving, there's a good chance Spanish mackerel are feeding below. Motor upwind of the action, then drift through while casting.