North Carolina · Cape Fear
DEEP SEA FISHING FISHING
IN SOUTHPORT
Explore the best deep sea fishing fishing charters in Southport. Book verified captains, compare prices, and fish the legendary deep Gulf waters beyond the continental shelf, blue water, and offshore reefs.
About Deep Sea Fishing Fishing in Southport
Southport, North Carolina offers some of the finest deep sea fishing fishing on the Gulf Coast. Southport sits at the mouth of the Cape Fear River where it meets the Atlantic, providing exceptional inshore fishing and easy access to Frying Pan Shoals and offshore waters. The deep sea fishing waters here — deep Gulf waters beyond the continental shelf, blue water, and offshore reefs — provide world-class angling opportunities that draw fishermen from across the country.
Deep Sea Fishing anglers in Southport target an impressive roster of species including Blackfin Tuna, Blue Marlin, Mahi Mahi, Sailfish, Yellowfin Tuna and more. Peak season runs through June, July, October, but productive deep sea fishing fishing is available year-round.
We're actively partnering with the best deep sea fishing fishing captains in Southport. Request a quote and we'll connect you with a top-rated local captain. All charters include gear, bait, tackle, North Carolina fishing licenses, and fish cleaning — everything you need for an unforgettable day on the water.
Deep Sea Fishing Fishing Calendar — Southport
Month-by-month availability for deep sea fishing species. Plan your trip around peak season for the best action.
| Species | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blackfin Tuna |
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—
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F
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G
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G
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F
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—
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—
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—
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—
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| Blue Marlin |
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—
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—
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—
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F
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G
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G
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F
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—
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—
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—
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—
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| Mahi Mahi |
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—
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—
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—
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G
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P
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P
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G
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F
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—
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—
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—
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| Sailfish |
—
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—
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—
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—
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F
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F
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F
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F
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—
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—
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—
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—
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| Yellowfin Tuna |
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—
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—
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—
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F
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G
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G
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F
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—
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—
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—
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—
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| Wahoo |
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—
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—
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—
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—
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—
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—
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F
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P
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P
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G
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Best Deep Sea Fishing Fishing Spots in Southport
From legendary bays to productive reefs, here are the top deep sea fishing fishing spots your captain will target in the Southport area.
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.
Top Deep Sea Fishing Fish Species in Southport
These are the primary deep sea fishing species you'll target on a Southport charter. Click any species to learn more.
Blackfin Tuna
Thunnus atlanticus
Smaller cousin of the yellowfin but excellent eating and great light-tackle sport.
Blue Marlin
Makaira nigricans
The ultimate big game fish. Spectacular fighters that can exceed 1,000 pounds.
Mahi Mahi
Coryphaena hippurus
Peak: Jun, Jul
Also called Dolphin or Dorado. Stunningly beautiful and acrobatic. Excellent eating.
Sailfish
Istiophorus platypterus
The fastest fish in the ocean with spectacular aerial displays. A premier sport fish.
Yellowfin Tuna
Thunnus albacares
A powerful open-water predator prized for sashimi-grade flesh. Found in blue water near rips and structure.
Wahoo
Acanthocybium solandri
Peak: Oct, Nov
One of the fastest fish in the ocean. Prized for firm, white flesh and blistering runs.
Deep Sea Fishing Fishing Boats & Tackle in Southport
Here's what to expect when you book a deep sea fishing charter in Southport.
Boats
Deep Sea Fishing fishing in Southport is typically done on center consoles, sportfishers, and offshore charter boats (28-65 ft).
Tackle & Gear
Deep Sea Fishing charters in Southport typically use heavy conventional and trolling gear with 30-80 lb test line. Live bait, trolling lures, and heavy jigs are standard.
What to Bring
Motion sickness medication (if prone), sunscreen, hat, light rain jacket, non-marking shoes, food and drinks. All fishing gear and licenses provided by the captain.
Deep Sea Fishing Fishing Charters in Southport
We're partnering with top deep sea fishing fishing captains in Southport. Request a quote below and we'll match you with the best local experts.
Captains Coming Soon to Saltwater Pros
We're actively partnering with the best deep sea fishing fishing captains in Southport. Request a quote and we'll connect you with a top-rated local captain within 24 hours.
Request a Free QuoteFrequently Asked Questions About Deep Sea Fishing Fishing in Southport
Deep sea fishing 20+ miles out. Chase tuna, marlin, mahi mahi, wahoo and other pelagic gamefish in blue water.
The top deep sea fishing species in Southport include Blackfin Tuna, Blue Marlin, Mahi Mahi, Sailfish, Yellowfin Tuna, Wahoo. Availability varies by season — check our seasonal calendar above for month-by-month details.
The peak months for deep sea fishing fishing in Southport are June, July, October, when the most species are at peak availability. However, Southport offers productive deep sea fishing fishing year-round.
Deep Sea Fishing fishing in Southport is typically done on center consoles, sportfishers, and offshore charter boats (28-65 ft). These vessels are specifically designed for navigating the deep Gulf waters beyond the continental shelf, blue water, and offshore reefs.
No — when you book a charter in Southport, your captain provides all required North Carolina fishing licenses as part of the trip. You don't need to purchase a separate license.
Motion sickness medication (if prone), sunscreen, hat, light rain jacket, non-marking shoes, food and drinks. All fishing gear and licenses provided by the captain.
Deep Sea Fishing fishing can be more challenging due to longer boat rides and heavier tackle, but experienced captains in Southport welcome anglers of all skill levels. Let your captain know your experience level when booking so they can tailor the trip accordingly.
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