Spanish Mackerel Fishing in North Carolina
When spanish mackerel are caught across North Carolina, season by season, from NOAA’s recreational catch survey (2024).
Spanish Mackerel catch through the year
Recreational catch in North Carolina by two-month season. The peak window is highlighted.
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Catching spanish mackerel in North Carolina
Spanish Mackerel catches in North Carolina run hardest around May-Jun, with the strongest two-month windows in May-Jun and Jul-Aug. Anglers keep about 56% 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 spanish mackerel in North Carolina?+
Catches peak around May-Jun (May and June). The strongest two-month windows are May-Jun and Jul-Aug. 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 spanish mackerel in North Carolina?+
Across North Carolina, about 56% of the spanish mackerel caught are kept and 44% are released. That works out to roughly 2.0M kept and 1.5M released in 2024.
How many spanish mackerel are caught in North Carolina?+
NOAA's survey estimated about 3.5M spanish mackerel caught by recreational anglers in North Carolina in 2024, making it the #5 most-caught species in the state. Survey estimates, so read them as the shape of the season.
Where does this spanish mackerel data come from?+
NOAA's Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP), 2024 estimates. Courtesy: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
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