Whats biting in north topsail beach
- Published Date: May 2, 2025
- Fishing
- Maple Hill, NC
- $150 - $200 price range
- See All Available Trips
What’s Biting in North Topsail Beach Right Now?
If you’re planning a fishing trip in North Topsail Beach, NC, you’ve come to the right place! Whether you're a seasoned angler or a family looking for a fun day on the water, knowing what’s biting can help you make the most of your time on the beautiful waters of the Atlantic. Let’s dive into the current fishing conditions, and what species you can expect to catch right now in the North Topsail Beach area.
Inshore Fishing: A Year-Round Treasure
Inshore fishing is always a favorite in North Topsail Beach, offering some of the best opportunities for both beginners and experienced anglers. Right now, you'll find plenty of action with redfish and flounder, both thriving in the area’s shallow waters. Redfish are especially active this time of year, often feeding near the surf and around oyster beds. These fish can be spotted cruising through the shallows, giving you a good chance to hook one up with the right bait.
Flounder, with their elusive, flat bodies, are another great catch during this time. You’ll often find them lurking on the bottom, waiting to ambush prey. Flounder fishing is a unique challenge that’s rewarding when you land a keeper, and they’re delicious on the grill! Look for flounder around sandbars, channels, and drop-offs.
Nearshore Fishing: A Bit of Everything
If you’re heading just a little farther offshore, nearshore waters offer plenty of action as well. Spanish mackerel are one of the most exciting species to target in these waters. Fast and fierce, they’re a thrill to catch and are plentiful right now. They're attracted to live bait, so if you're trolling, you may be able to hook several in a short time.
You may also encounter bluefish in the nearshore waters. These aggressive fish are fun to catch, often striking at a variety of bait. If you’re up for the challenge, king mackerel may also make an appearance. Although less common, their size and fight make them a great catch for anglers looking for a bit of excitement.
Offshore Fishing: Big Game Season
If you’re ready to venture farther out, North Topsail Beach offers excellent opportunities for offshore fishing. This time of year is fantastic for dolphin fish (mahi-mahi) and wahoo, which are often found in deeper waters. Mahi-mahi, known for their vibrant colors and fighting spirit, are especially popular during late spring and summer, making now a great time to target them.
For anglers looking to catch some of the region’s most sought-after species, yellowfin tuna and sailfish are prime targets offshore. These powerful fish provide an exciting experience, but targeting them requires some time and skill, so be sure you’re prepared for a longer trip.
What to Bring and Tips for Success
When fishing in North Topsail Beach, be sure to bring your patience, sunscreen, and plenty of water to stay hydrated. For inshore and nearshore fishing, light tackle is typically recommended, with live bait such as shrimp or small baitfish being most effective. Offshore trips, on the other hand, require heavier gear and more specialized baits to catch those big game species.
It’s also helpful to keep track of the tides. Fish tend to feed more actively around the incoming and outgoing tides, so timing your trip around these periods can improve your chances of a successful outing.
Book Your North Topsail Beach Fishing Adventure
No matter what you’re hoping to catch, North Topsail Beach offers diverse fishing opportunities year-round. Whether you're looking to land a redfish on an inshore trip or chase big game offshore, the waters here never disappoint.
Ready to experience the best fishing North Topsail Beach has to offer? Wild Catch Fishing offers guided trips to help you hook the catch of a lifetime. Book your fishing trip today with Captain Joel Hickman, and let’s head out to the best fishing spots in the area!