Its Fishing Season!

With miles of Atlantic Ocean facing beaches, there’s arguably a fishing spot anywhere you look in this small island community.

You will usually see fishermen in one of their favorite spots; on the Kure Beach pier, Carolina Beach Pier or right on the surf! To fish in the state of North Carolina, you must procure a fishing license. However, don’t worry, it’s super easy! When you choose to fish on the pier, no fishing license is needed, however there is a nominal fee for pier use. If you choose to surf fish you must get a fishing license. Fishing licenses can be purchased at multiple locations both on and off our island; such as the Blue Marlin Beach Shop, either fishing pier, online at www.ncwildlife.org or over the phone at the Wildlife Resources Commission 888-248-6834, Monday through Friday from 8am-5pm. It should be noted that a fishing license is not required for anglers under the age of 16, so don’t hesitate in bringing the whole family.

Carolina Beach Pier

The Carolina Beach Fishing Pier is a true historic local attraction which was Built by W.E. Yopp, J.C. Herring, A.W. Pate and J.J. Loughlin around 1915 and has been owned and operated by the Phelps family since 1947-present. The pier is a classic Carolina wooden pier with long columns of wood pilings, a wide plank walkway that dips here and there due to years of storms, and an assortment of benches allowing anglers and sightseers to sit back and relax.

Kure Beach Pier

Did you know the Kure Beach Fishing pier is one of the oldest on the Atlantic coast? The original Kure Beach Pier was built in 1923 and has been rebuilt and restored over the years. Today, you can buy fish, tackle, bait, and stroll all 711 feet of wooden pier planks. The pier is family friendly, and no alcohol allowed. It is truly a fun spot for all ages. Pier access is free to those who are not fishing, but interested in a spectacular view!

Surf Fishing

Depending on where you stay at Carolina Beach or Kure Beach, you can drive a few miles south of the pier and visit the Fort Fisher Recreational area. If you have a 4 wheel drive vehicle, you can purchase annual passes and day passes on-site at the park. This park is super popular with surf fishermen. The best time to surf fish is from before dawn to around 10 AM and two hours before dusk. It is during these times that the fish are feeding, hence exposed. That being said, it is best to speak with the locals in your area as they always have the best knowledge of the fishing conditions in your area

Where to Stay?

Coming to fish and not sure where to stay? Let us show you some great ideas.
Our vacation rentals range from pool side studios and charming cottages to luxurious oceanfront homes with private pools. Your fur family is also welcome, we have several pet friendly vacation rentals, and some with a fenced in yard!

One of our favorite selections to stay in is the Palm Air Cottages. The cottages are a local icon in Kure Beach. They have all the quaintness of days gone by yet are modern, comfortable, clean and centrally located to the beach, pier and restaurants.