June fishing in Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina, brought plenty of action for my charter clients, with inshore and nearshore waters holding plenty of fish. We caught Redfish, Flounder, and Speckled Trout in the backwaters, while Spanish Mackerel and Sharks provided exciting nearshore action.
With warm water and active fish, anglers of all skill levels enjoyed steady bites throughout the month. Whether fishing the shallows for inshore favorites or heading nearshore for fast-paced shark and Spanish Mackerel action, Ocean Isle Beach delivered.
Inshore Fishing for Redfish, Flounder, and Trout
Redfish: The Inshore Favorite
June is one of the best months to target redfish in Ocean Isle Beach, thanks to warmer water temperatures and active feeding patterns. The warming water temperature in June created the perfect conditions for redfish to cruise shallow flats, grass edges, and oyster beds.
Most of the redfish we caught were hanging out near creek mouths or near the mouth of the Shallotte River, where baitfish were plentiful. Using live shrimp under a popping cork or artificial lures like the Z-Man DieZel MinnowZ proved highly effective.
Flounder Fishing Recap for June
Flounder fishing in June was equally productive, especially for those who enjoy working near creek mouths and sandy drop-offs. With water temperatures warming, flounder were actively ambushing bait along structure and ledges. Using Berkley Gulp! Shrimp in the New Penny color or a Berkley Gulp Swimming Minnow in Pearl or Chartreuse colors on a 3/16 oz or 1/4 oz Z-Man Jighead produced consistent results. Average floudner size was around 16-19 inches, with some 20-22 inchers in the mix.
Speckled Trout Fishing Recap for June
June mornings were prime for speckled trout fishing, especially around dock pilings, grass flats, and deeper holes in the creeks. The trout were biting well on Z-Man Trout Trick lures in the "Tater Salad" color with lightweight jigheads or live shrimp drifted under a popping cork was another reliable choice. Speckled trout in the 14-16 inch range were common, with a few larger fish mixed in.
Nearshore Shark Fishing Charters
Shark Fishing: June Excitement
If you've never experienced the thrill of battling a shark, Ocean Isle Beach in June is the perfect time and place. Our waters just off the beach were teeming with Blacktip Sharks, Atlantic Sharpnose Sharks, Sandbar Sharks, and the occasional Hammerhead Shark. Sharks are abundant in OIB in the Summer months, coming in closer to shore when the water is warm and there's plenty of batifish for them to eat.
I typically start my Shark Fishing Charter trips trips in June each year, so it was nice getting back on the sharks this month. One customer caught the first Hammerhead of the year, which was also his first Hammerhead ever. He enjoyed it so much that he's already calling to book his next shark fishing charter for next year!
I'll normally shark fish in Shallotte Inlet, just outside the inlet, or near one of the nearby artificial reefs just off Ocean Isle Beach and Holden Beach. I'll also fish for them at nearby Little River Inlet, which is just on the other side of Sunset Beach from OIB. Afternoons and evenings tend to be the best times. I start each trip by chumming to draw them in close. I prefer to use Bluefish for bait when shark fishing, but I'm not overly picky on the bait, as long as it is freshly caught.
I use heavier rods with Abu Garcia 6500 Baitcaster reels, spooled with 80 pound braided line, and attached to a 150 pound mono leader. At the business end, I'll use a 12/0 circle hook. Always use a circle hook, as they help to prevent deep-hooking sharks. This makes it safer for you when de-hooking the shark and it makes it easier to release the shark alive.
Fishing Tips for Success
- Stay Flexible: As the water warms, fish may change their feeding habits. Adjust your tactics accordingly.
- Gear Up Properly: Ensure your tackle is suitable for the species you're targeting. Heavier gear for sharks, lighter setups like a Penn Battle 3 Rod and Reel Combo in a 2500 or 3000 reel size for inshore fish.
- Plan Around the Tides: Moving tides are your best friend when targeting redfish, trout, and flounder. Tip: search for and download the "Tides" app and the "Windy" app -thank me later.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring plenty of water and sun protection to enjoy your time on the water safely. If you're on a charter with me, I do provide bottled water and my boat has a t-top for shade, if needed.
Why Ocean Isle Beach is a Premier Fishing Destination
Whether you're an experienced angler or a first-timer, Ocean Isle Beach offers some of the best inshore and nearshore fishing in North Carolina. Here you have the opportunity to be catching fish in just minutes and not have to ride in the boat for an hour to get to your fishing spot. Most trips can have you actively fishing in 10 minutes from meeting your Captain. With the Shallotte River, Calabash River, Little River, and tons of area saltwater creeks and marshes - as well as awesome nearshore and offshore fishing - there is always great fishing here, year-round!
With July just around the corner, there's still plenty of summer time action waiting for you on the water. For hands-on guidance and access to proven spots, consider booking a charter with me. You can Book My Charter Now or give me a call or text at (910) 250-8459.
Remember, there's no substitute for time on the water. Each trip teaches you something new. Stay observant, keep learning, and most importantly - enjoy your time on the water!
Tight Lines,
Captain Harvey Wall
Salty Dawg Fishing Charters