North Carolina · Cape Fear
BLACKFIN TUNA FISHING
IN SOUTHPORT
Southport is a solid destination for blackfin tuna fishing, with good fishing in June, July. Book a charter and target blackfin tuna with local experts.
About Blackfin Tuna Fishing in Southport
Smaller cousin of the yellowfin but excellent eating and great light-tackle sport.
Southport is a solid destination for blackfin tuna fishing, offering good fishing in June, July. The best months to target blackfin tuna here are June, July.
Scientific name: Thunnus atlanticus
Blackfin Tuna Seasonal Calendar — Southport
Month-by-month availability for blackfin tuna in Southport, NC.
How to Catch Blackfin Tuna in Southport
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 Southport
Top spots where local captains target blackfin tuna and other deep sea fishing species.
Frying Pan Shoals
Frying Pan Shoals extend over 20 miles southeast from Bald Head Island into the Atlantic, making them one of the most prominent offshore features accessible from Southport. King mackerel, cobia, amberjack, grouper, and barracuda patrol the shoals' edges where depth changes create feeding zones. The shoals serve as a major waypoint and fishing ground for Southport boats heading offshore.
Frying Pan Tower
Frying Pan Tower stands at the outer edge of Frying Pan Shoals approximately 34 miles from Southport, its decommissioned light station creating a massive artificial reef. Amberjack, grouper, king mackerel, cobia, and barracuda stack up around the tower's steel legs and debris field. Southport boats have the closest mainland access to the tower, making it a signature offshore destination.
Gulf Stream (Southport Access)
The Gulf Stream is accessible from Southport in approximately 35 to 45 miles via the Cape Fear River inlet, with productive bluewater fishing along the Stream's western edge. Blue marlin, yellowfin tuna, mahi-mahi, wahoo, and sailfish are the primary targets along temperature breaks and weed lines. Southport's position near the Gulf Stream makes it one of the top departure points for offshore fishing in southeastern North Carolina.
Yolanda Wreck
The Yolanda is an offshore wreck site lying in approximately 100 feet of water south of Cape Fear, providing excellent bottom-fishing structure in the open Atlantic. Amberjack, grouper, black sea bass, triggerfish, and barracuda hold on the wreck throughout the year, while king mackerel cruise above. It is a reliable offshore wreck-fishing destination for Southport-based charter boats on full-day trips.
Other Species in Southport
More fish you can target while visiting Southport.
Blackfin Tuna Fishing in Southport — FAQ
Blackfin Tuna fishing in Southport is productive during June, July.
Blackfin Tuna fishing charters in Southport 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 Southport, 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 Southport, you may also catch King Mackerel, Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, Redfish, Cobia. Many charter trips target multiple species for the best action.
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