A Look At North Carolina’s Legendary Tackle Shops

North Carolina’s coastline and historic waterways are home to some of the oldest, most legendary bait and tackle shops on the East Coast. These multi-generational institutions are famous not just for their extensive gear selections, but for their invaluable local knowledge, rod repair expertise, and roles as community hubs for generations of anglers.

Historic Outer Banks Standard-Bearers

Established in 1974, Red Drum Tackle Shop proudly holds the title of the “Oldest Complete Tackle Shop at Cape Hatteras”. Situated right near the legendary Cape Point, it is world-famous for helping surf anglers gear up for massive red drum. They specialize in top-tier bait, custom rods, and expert rod repair.

TW’s Bait & Tackle (Nags Head / Kitty Hawk)

Originally opened by Terry Stewart in the spring of 1981, TW’s Bait & Tackle has grown into an absolute staple of the northern Outer Banks. Known for its massive inventory and historic holiday rushes, it remains a vital first stop for anyone hitting the surf or sounds.

Dillon’s Corner Tackle Shop (Buxton)

Tackle Shops (2)Originally opened by Terry Stewart in the spring of 1981, TW’s Bait & Tackle has grown into an absolute staple of the northern Outer Banks. Known for its massive inventory and historic holiday rushes, it remains a vital first stop for anyone hitting the surf or sounds. Operating on Hatteras Island since 1983, Dillon’s Corner features a classic tackle shop downstairs packed with fresh bait, Calcutta gear, and rod supplies, paired with a local souvenir gallery upstairs.

Crystal Coast & Cape Fear Icons

EJW Outdoors (Morehead City)

An extraordinary piece of North Carolina hunting and fishing history, EJW Outdoors first opened its doors as a bicycle and tackle shop in 1946. It has been proudly run by four generations of the Willis family.

East Coast Sports (Surf City)

Evolving from a coastal ice house started by the Medlin family in 1951, East Coast Sports is a cornerstone four-generation business on Topsail Island. It is an expansive one-stop destination offering everything from premium offshore lures to heavy-duty marine hardware and rod spooling.

Blue Marlin Beach Shop (Kure Beach)

Serving the southern tip of the Cape Fear coast since the 1950s, Blue Marlin Beach Shop is an old-school landmark loved for its classic live bait tanks, reliable local fishing reports, and vintage seaside charm.

Intracoastal Angler (Wilmington)

Operating for over 30 years, Intracoastal Angler is a premier saltwater outfitter known across the region for its elite tackle selection and experienced staff of active local fishermen.

Inland & River Mainstays

Piedmont Outfitters (Lincolnton, NC)

Providing for freshwater anglers in the Piedmont region since 1967, this family-owned shop has spent decades supplying the local community with specialized lake tackle and outdoor apparel.

Daughtry’s Bait & Tackle (Clinton)

Often referred to locally as Dre’s Bait and Tackle, owner Jimmy Daughtry has operated this old-timey, legendary country bait shop for roughly 45 years, serving as a vital key to freshwater fishing success in Sampson County.