Are you curious about fishing, or are you a natural angler? No matter your skill level, you’ll love fishing in the waters around Holden Beach! You’re likely to find a good spot to get a strong bite. Relax and reel ‘em in on the island that has been deemed the best in North Carolina by many travel magazines, including Travel + Leisure. In addition to fishing, you'll capture peace of mind against the beautiful backdrop that is Holden Beach. The island offers a calm and quiet environment suitable for you and your entire family. We’ve laid out all you need to know to prepare for your fantastic fishing trip here.
In This Article:
- Relax and Surf Fish on Holden Island
- Take in Scenic Views on a Pier
- Find Your Adventure with a Fishing Charter
- Grab Fishing Equipment at a Local Bait and Tackle Store
- Do You Need a Fishing License to Fish in Holden Beach?
- Book Direct Coastal Vacation Resorts!
Relax and Surf Fish on Holden Island
Surf fishing is a simple way to begin your fishing adventures. It’s also a way to unwind, no matter how long you've been casting a reel. The Holden Beach waters boast a variety of fish species, including Red and Black Drum, flounder, speckled trout, sea mullet, king mackerel, and much more! What bites depends on the season and your location. Check out fishing reports to get an idea of what to look out for.
Take in Scenic Views on a Pier
If you want to increase your odds of snagging a good catch without a boat, cast your rod from a pier. Since fish are going after the algae that grows around the pier, you’re more likely to get a bite! Holden Beach Fishing Pier is currently closed, but you have other options to try. Here are a couple:
Holden Beach Pavilion and Fishing Pier
Location: 0 Jordan Boulevard, located behind the Holden Beach Pavilion
Highlights: Restrooms nearby, picnic shelter, playground, access to the Intracoastal Waterway.
Halstead Street Intracoastal Fishing Pier
Location: 125 South Shore Drive, Holden Beach
Highlights: 45-foot pier along the Intracoastal Waterway
Find Your Adventure with a Fishing Charter
Fishing charters are typically high-producing adventures that’ll reel in something memorable. The captains are knowledgeable and native to the area. That means you’ll be led by someone who understands the waterways intimately, is bait-ready, and is fully equipped to help you land an impressive catch. You can check out local reports to see what's in store. Here are a couple worth checking out:
Rigged and Ready Charters
Location: 1299 Cedar Landing Road SW, Holden Beach/Supply area
Specialties: Quarter-day, half-day, three-quarter-day, full-day nearshore, offshore, and Gulf Stream trips. Target species include tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi, king and spanish mackerel, sharks, grouper, snapper, and sea bass. Winter bluefin tuna trips are also offered.
Carolina Traditions Fishing Charters
Location: 1000 Songbird Lane SW, Supply
Key Highlights: Offers inshore, nearshore, offshore, and kids’ fishing charters with USCG-licensed captains. Family-friendly trips are available, dogs are welcome aboard, and complimentary parking is provided.
Salty Southern Adventures
Location: 3238 Pompano Street Southwest, Holden Beach
Key Highlights: Veteran-owned, family-operated charter offering inshore, nearshore, and offshore fishing. Captain Aaron has more than 30 years of fishing experience in Brunswick County, and trips are family-friendly, with fishing licenses, rods, reels, tackle, and lures included.
Grab Fishing Equipment at a Local Bait and Tackle Store
Before you pack your bags, make a stop by one of the bait and tackle stores in the area. Here are two you can visit:
The Rod and Reel Shop
Location: 3401 Holden Beach Road SW, Holden Beach
Hours: 7 a.m. to 7. p.m., daily
Specialties: Fishing bait and tackle
Rigged and Ready Fishing Center
Location: 1096 Sabbath Home Road SW, Supply
Hours: Monday-Thursday, 7 a.m.-7 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 7 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sunday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Specialties: Tackle and bait; yes, the same that offers charter fishing services
Do You Need a Fishing License to Fish in Holden Beach?
People 16 and older need a North Carolina Coastal Recreational Fishing License to fish in the coastal waters around Holden Beach. Licenses are available for 10 days, annually, or for a lifetime. You can buy a license at most sports or bait and tackle shops, and at a Wal-Mart store. Be sure to check current fishing regulations and license requirements before casting a line.
Book Direct with Coastal Vacation Resorts!
Featured Property: King of the Sea
Now that you're excited about a Holden Beach fishing trip, be sure to secure your vacation rental! Book with Coastal Vacation Resorts to get a feel for the town and its laid-back atmosphere as you enjoy some productive days on the water. We offer nightly rentals and homes for a longer stay. If you’re traveling with your dog, we’ve got you covered there, too. Search for amenities such as a private pool or an oceanside vacation rental right on our website. When you book direct here, you’re saving more money than booking through a third-party travel agency. Questions? Use our contact form to submit any inquiries you might have about your stay.
We look forward to welcoming you to Holden Beach, NC!
View All Holden Beach Vacation Rentals
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Holden Beach good for first-time fishers?
Absolutely! It’s a good idea to start with surf fishing or go on the pier. If you need a little extra help, Salty Waters Surf Fishing offers educational surf fishing trips with equipment and bait provided. Make sure to bring your fishing license, cooler, drinks and snacks, a chair, and some sunscreen.
What should I bring for a fishing trip in Holden Island?
If you plan to fish along the beach or on a pier, bring some rods and tackle, bait, sun protection, and your cooler. If you’re booking a fishing charter, your captain might have that covered, so check first. Ultimately, you'll want to be comfortable so you’ll have the best chance of reeling in a trophy-winning catch!