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Ocean:  There will be plenty of excellent fishing opportunities on-board charter boats during the winter. The central district has become home to North Carolina’s bluefin tuna fishery.  Multiple hook-ups and multiple fish days are the norm rather than the exception. Another species that sometimes makes the winter scene in the Central area is striped bass. Stripers are sometimes taken from Cape Lookout Shoals and other areas along the beach throughout the winter. Other offshore species such as king mackerel, yellowfin tuna and wahoo will also be available to Gulf Stream anglers. Bottom fishing for a variety of reef fish species is also excellent during the winter months. There are several headboats that operate throughout the year. Some of the best snapper and grouper catches will be are a lot of fun and really provide a quality fishing experience.  Extended/overnight fishing trips are also offered. Bluefin tuna trips have also been offered in the past. Check with your favorite fishing vessel Private boat anglers will enjoy many of the same opportunities as those mentioned for charterboat anglers.  Near-shore bluefin tuna fishing will be excellent. Those fishing offshore will have access to excellent catches of king mackerel.  

Inlets/Sounds/Bays:  Newly established striper fishing on the shoals of Cape Lookout will also be a favorite.  Inside, the creeks of the White Oak, Neuse, Bay, Pamlico and Pungo rivers will offer occasional excellent speckled trout fishing.  Do a little research before going, however; this is a very specialized fishery.   

Piers/Shore:  Most piers are closed for the season.  Some may allow access but catches will be limited.  Shore fishing activity will be limited