Motor Boatin' Bloggin'

Fish that are in season during the winter in NC

January 22, 2024

Fishing during the colder months in North Carolina isn't just for the die hard fishermen. Fortunately, North Carolina provides a milder climate in the winter season, bridging us from late fall to early spring with an abundance of fishing opportunities. Before deciding when and where to cast your line out, it is important to know what's biting when. 

No matter what kind of fish you are looking for during the winter season, Motor Boatin’ has got you covered in this blog below. We will give you the full run down about what kind of fish are currently in season during the winter months in North Carolina. By the time you are done reading, we can assure that you will be reaching for your rod and booking for your next boat rental with us at Motor Boatin’.

Fish that are in season during the winter in NC:

• December: Freshwater fish will tail off to some extent due to the cold weather, causing some fish to go into hibernation. However, do not get your hopes down as you can expect to hook into Catfish, Crappie, Bluegrill, and a range of Bass. Saltwater fish are more reliable during the cooler months. You can expect to reel in Red, Blues, and Trout.
• January: If you are looking to kick off your new year in style, then the North Carolina waters have a special fishing treat for you. You can expect to find Bluefin Tuna, Black Drum, Redfish, and Trout when fishing in saltwater. If freshwater fishing is more your thing, then you can expect to hook Panfish and Largemouth Bass. 
• February: Do not worry about the cold weather blues in North Carolina as there is still an abundance of fish that can still be found during the month of February. Because of the weather, it can be expected that Bluefin Tuna will be starring out in deeper salt water. Though, don't get your hopes down as finding this fish will be very rewarding in the long run. You can also expect to take home Tuna for a hearty meal. In fresh waters, you can expect to find White Perch, Bluegrill, and Crappie. 
• March: As winter begins to fade away with the coming of spring, you can expect to see more life in the waters. In the fresh waters, you can hook Spotted, Striped, and Hybrid Striped Bass. While in the salt water you can expect to reel in Black Drum, Redfish, Trout, Yellowfin Tuna, and Bluefin.

Do not let the cold months steer you away from your next fishing excursion as we can assure that there is still an abundance of fish that can still be found in North Carolina. After reading this blog, we hope that you are able to get back into the swing of things, pick up your rod, and book your next boating rental with us at Motor Boatin’.