North Carolina · Outer Banks
BLACKFIN TUNA FISHING
IN HATTERAS
Hatteras is a solid destination for blackfin tuna fishing, with good fishing in May, June, July, October. Book a charter and target blackfin tuna with local experts.
About Blackfin Tuna Fishing in Hatteras
Smaller cousin of the yellowfin but excellent eating and great light-tackle sport.
Hatteras is a solid destination for blackfin tuna fishing, offering good fishing in May, June, July, October. The best months to target blackfin tuna here are May, June, July, October.
Scientific name: Thunnus atlanticus
Blackfin Tuna Seasonal Calendar — Hatteras
Month-by-month availability for blackfin tuna in Hatteras, NC.
How to Catch Blackfin Tuna in Hatteras
Techniques & Bait
Consult your local charter captain for the most effective baits and techniques in the area.
Recommended Tackle
Your captain will provide all tackle and gear suited to the target species and local conditions.
Best Deep Sea Fishing Fishing Spots in Hatteras
Top spots where local captains target blackfin tuna and other deep sea fishing species.
The Gulf Stream (Hatteras Break)
The Gulf Stream runs closer to shore off Cape Hatteras than almost anywhere else on the U.S. Atlantic coast, sometimes as near as 12 miles from the beach. This proximity gives Hatteras-based boats quick access to blue marlin, white marlin, yellowfin tuna, wahoo, and mahi-mahi. The Hatteras Break, where the continental shelf drops off sharply, concentrates pelagic species along temperature and color changes.
The Point (Hatteras Canyon)
The Hatteras Canyon is a deep submarine canyon cutting into the continental shelf southeast of Cape Hatteras, with depths plunging from 100 to over 1,000 feet. The canyon walls create upwelling that attracts massive concentrations of baitfish, followed by blue marlin, bigeye tuna, and swordfish. It is one of the most productive deepwater fishing destinations on the entire East Coast.
The Big Rock
The Big Rock is a natural rock ledge and bottom feature along the continental shelf edge south of Hatteras, rising from the surrounding depths to concentrate pelagic species. Blue marlin, yellowfin tuna, and wahoo patrol the structure where bait aggregates along the current break. Named after the famous Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament, this is a trophy-class offshore destination.
The Cigar
The Cigar is a well-known deepwater wreck site approximately 30 miles offshore of Hatteras, sitting in over 200 feet of water on the continental shelf edge. The wreck holds amberjack, grouper, barracuda, and king mackerel, while pelagics such as wahoo and tuna cruise the surrounding blue water. It serves as both a bottom-fishing destination and a waypoint for trolling toward the Gulf Stream.
Other Species in Hatteras
More fish you can target while visiting Hatteras.
Blackfin Tuna Fishing in Hatteras — FAQ
Blackfin Tuna fishing in Hatteras is productive during May, June, July, October.
Blackfin Tuna fishing charters in Hatteras are typically deep sea fishing trips. Prices vary by trip duration and group size. Most charters include all gear, bait, licenses, and fish cleaning.
Consult your local charter captain for the most effective baits and techniques in the area.
No — when you book a charter in Hatteras, your captain provides all required North Carolina fishing licenses as part of the trip.
Blackfin Tuna regulations in North Carolina include minimum size limits and bag limits that vary by season. Your captain will know the current regulations and ensure compliance.
While targeting Blackfin Tuna in Hatteras, you may also catch Redfish, Striped Bass, King Mackerel, Mahi Mahi, Wahoo. Many charter trips target multiple species for the best action.
Ready to Catch Blackfin Tuna in Hatteras?
Compare verified charter captains, check availability, and book your blackfin tuna fishing trip today.
Get Charter Quotes