Outer Banks (Cape Hatteras), United States

North Carolina · United States

Outer Banks (Cape Hatteras)

Saltwater

Where the Gulf Stream swings close to a chain of barrier islands, Cape Hatteras offers some of the best surf fishing in the country. The autumn red-drum run is the headline event, with big fish landed straight off the beach.

Water
Saltwater
Best time
Fall red-drum run Oct–Nov; cobia in spring

Target species

  • Red drum (redfish)
  • Bluefish
  • Striped bass
  • Cobia
  • Spanish mackerel

Recommended techniques

  • Surf fishing
  • Pier fishing
  • Nearshore trolling

Best time of year: Fall red-drum run Oct–Nov; cobia in spring