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Top-Rated Morning Surf Fishing at North Topsail
- Published Date: July 16, 2025
- Fishing
- Topsail Beach
- Updated Date: November 15, 2025
Summary
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Beachside Catches
Reel in the Morning: Surf Fishing at North Topsail
Get ready to hit the beach at sunrise for some of the best surf fishing North Carolina has to offer. This 4-hour guided trip along North Topsail Beach is perfect for anglers of all levels looking to land some local favorites right from the shore. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned pro, our expert guides will put you on the fish and show you the ropes of successful surf casting.
What to Expect on the Water
We'll meet up bright and early, just as the sun's peeking over the horizon. Your guide will already have scoped out the best spots, so we'll head straight to where the fish are biting. We're talking prime real estate where the sandbars and cuts create perfect feeding grounds for redfish, black drum, and more. You'll be fishing on foot, so wear comfortable shoes you don't mind getting wet. The beauty of surf fishing is you're right in the action – feeling the waves lap at your feet as you cast into the surf. It's a laid-back vibe, but don't be fooled – when a big red decides to take your bait, you'll be in for a fight!
Techniques & Gear Rundown
We're all about bottom fishing on this trip. Your guide will show you how to read the water, looking for those telltale signs of fish activity. We'll be using heavy-duty surf rods and reels, spooled with sturdy line to handle the surf and any big boys that might come along. The go-to rig around here is a fish-finder setup – it's simple but deadly effective. We'll bait up with fresh cut mullet, shrimp, or sand fleas, depending on what's working best that day. Don't worry if you're new to this – your guide will walk you through everything from casting to setting the hook. And hey, if you're an old hand at this, they might just show you a new trick or two.
Top Catches This Season
North Topsail's been on fire lately. Anglers have been pulling in some monster reds right off the beach – we're talking bull reds over 40 inches! The black drum bite's been steady too, with plenty of keeper-sized fish in the 5-10 pound range. And for those looking for a real battle, we've had a few lucky folks hook into some blacktip sharks. Nothing gets your heart racing like seeing that dorsal fin cut through the surf!
Species You'll Want to Hook
Redfish: These copper-colored beauties are the stars of the show here at North Topsail. They love to cruise the surf zone, looking for crabs and baitfish. In the fall, we see big schools of bull reds move through – it's not uncommon to hook into 30+ pound fish right from the beach. They put up an amazing fight, often making long runs parallel to the shore. The best part? They're delicious if you decide to keep a slot-sized fish for dinner.
Blacktip Shark: For an extra shot of adrenaline, nothing beats hooking into one of these speedsters. Blacktips are known for their acrobatic leaps and blistering runs. They typically range from 3-5 feet long in our waters, but we occasionally see bigger ones. Summer's the prime time for blacktips, when they follow the bait schools close to shore. Remember, these are catch-and-release only – but the photo op with a beach shark is hard to beat!
Bluefish: These toothy critters are the perfect target when you want non-stop action. Bluefish often show up in big schools, churning up the water as they chase bait. They hit hard and fight all the way to the beach. While they're not the biggest fish out there (usually 2-5 pounds), what they lack in size they make up for in attitude. Pro tip: bring some extra leaders, as their sharp teeth can make quick work of your line.
Black Drum: The often-overlooked cousin of the redfish, black drum are a surf fishing staple here. They're bottom feeders with a soft spot for crabs and shrimp. What's cool about black drum is the size range – you might catch a 2-pounder or a 20-pounder on the same trip. They're not as flashy as some other species, but they put up a solid fight and are excellent on the dinner table. Listen for their distinctive "drumming" sound when you bring one in!
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
There's something special about fishing North Topsail Beach. Maybe it's the way the sun paints the sky as you make your first cast. Or how the salt spray hits your face when a wave crashes nearby. But ask any regular, and they'll tell you it's the fish. This stretch of coast has a knack for producing quality catches year-round. Spring brings waves of big bluefish. Summer sees an influx of sharks patrolling the shallows. Fall is prime time for those bull reds. And even in winter, you can still find some hefty black drum hanging around. Add in the laid-back vibe of a beach town that hasn't lost its old-school charm, and you've got a recipe for fishing paradise.
Time to Book Your Spot
Look, I could go on all day about the fishing here, but nothing beats experiencing it firsthand. This half-day trip is the perfect way to get your feet wet (literally) in the world of surf fishing. Whether you're looking to bend a rod with the family, learn some new techniques, or just enjoy a morning on one of North Carolina's most beautiful beaches – we've got you covered. Our guides know these waters like the back of their hand and are passionate about putting you on fish. Plus, with all gear provided, you just need to show up ready for action. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait to lock in your date. Trust me, once you feel that first tug on your line with the ocean at your feet, you'll be hooked for life. So what are you waiting for? Grab your license, slap on some sunscreen, and let's hit the beach for some world-class surf fishing right here in North Topsail!
Learn more about the species
Black Drum
Black drum are bottom-feeding bruisers that can be found year-round in North Topsail Beach. Most run 5-30 pounds, but the big ones can top 80. Look for them around oyster beds, mudflats, and pier pilings in waters up to about 30 feet deep. Spring's the best time to target them, as they school up to spawn. Anglers appreciate black drum for their strong, steady fight and good eating quality (stick to smaller ones under 15 pounds for the table). They make a distinctive croaking sound, which is pretty cool to hear. When targeting drum, I always tell folks to use fresh crab or clams - that's their favorite meal. Fish your bait right on the bottom and be patient. When that rod doubles over, you'll know you're in for a battle.
Blacktip Shark
Blacktip sharks are one of the more common sharks we see around North Topsail Beach. They usually run 4-5 feet long, but can get up to 9 feet. These guys are known for their acrobatics - they'll sometimes leap completely out of the water when chasing bait fish. You'll find blacktips cruising in waters from 30 to 100 feet deep, often near artificial reefs or other structures. Summer and early fall are your best bet for hooking into one. Anglers love targeting blacktips for their fast runs and aerial displays when hooked. To up your chances, try chumming with oily fish like mackerel or herring. Just remember, these sharks can be a bit skittish, so sometimes patience is key. When you do hook up, hang on tight - it's going to be a wild ride!
Bluefish
Bluefish are aggressive predators that show up in our waters from late spring through fall. These toothy critters typically run 3-10 pounds, but can get up to 20. You'll find them in the surf, around inlets, and out in open water - they're constantly on the move chasing bait. Blues often hunt in large schools, creating feeding frenzies called "blitzes" that churn up the water. Summer's the prime time to target them, especially on windy days. Anglers love blues for their hard-fighting spirit and the chaos they create when hooked. They're also good eating when prepared right. My go-to trick for blues is using metal lures - their flash mimics bait fish and triggers that predatory instinct. Just watch those teeth when unhooking them!
Redfish
Redfish are a local favorite here in North Topsail Beach. These copper-colored beauties usually range from 20-30 inches and love hanging out in shallow water, often less than 4 feet deep. You'll find them cruising flats, oyster beds, and around structures like old piers. They're known for that distinctive black spot near their tail - it's actually a fake "eye" to confuse predators. Spring and fall are prime seasons, but we catch 'em year-round. Anglers love redfish for their strong fight and excellent table fare. When targeting reds, I always tell folks to look for "tailing" fish in super shallow water. That's when their backs and tails break the surface as they root around for crabs and shrimp. Seeing that and making the perfect cast - that's what it's all about.
