Atlantic Menhaden Fishing in North Carolina
When atlantic menhaden are caught across North Carolina, season by season, from NOAA’s recreational catch survey (2024).
Atlantic Menhaden catch through the year
Recreational catch in North Carolina by two-month season. The peak window is highlighted.
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Catching atlantic menhaden in North Carolina
Atlantic Menhaden catches in North Carolina run hardest around Jul-Aug, with the strongest two-month windows in Jul-Aug and May-Jun. Anglers keep about 79% of what they catch and release the rest. All of this comes from NOAA’s recreational catch survey, so it maps the season rather than any single day.
To turn the season into a trip, line the peak window up with the daily bite. Check the North Carolina fishing times for the solunar windows, the tide charts for moving water, and the sunrise and sunset times for first and last light.
Frequently asked
When is the best time to catch atlantic menhaden in North Carolina?+
Catches peak around Jul-Aug (July and August). The strongest two-month windows are Jul-Aug and May-Jun. This is based on NOAA's 2024 recreational catch survey, so it reflects the typical season rather than a live report.
Do anglers keep or release atlantic menhaden in North Carolina?+
Across North Carolina, about 79% of the atlantic menhaden caught are kept and 21% are released. That works out to roughly 387K kept and 104K released in 2024.
How many atlantic menhaden are caught in North Carolina?+
NOAA's survey estimated about 491K atlantic menhaden caught by recreational anglers in North Carolina in 2024, making it the #18 most-caught species in the state. Survey estimates, so read them as the shape of the season.
Where does this atlantic menhaden data come from?+
NOAA's Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP), 2024 estimates. Courtesy: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
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