North Carolina’s Brunswick Islands is renowned for its fresh locally sourced seafood, making it a paradise for seafood lovers. Whether heading out to eat or holding their own seafood boil, many visiting families make it a cherished tradition to enjoy a fresh seafood meal during their trip to the area. Additionally, supporting local fishermen and seafood markets is the perfect way to ensure the continued success of this vibrant and longstanding industry vital to the area’s residents.
Read on to learn about our local fishing culture and for more ways to enjoy a delicious, fresh seafood feast during your next visit! And make sure to sign up for our monthly newsletter for more stories, histories, and trip ideas from NC's Brunswick Islands.
History of Fishing in Brunswick County
Fishing has been a vital part of Brunswick County's culture and economy for centuries, with early settlers relying heavily on the bountiful waters. The Brunswick Islands also have a rich history of shrimping and oystering due to the region's plentiful estuaries and salt marshes serving as the ideal habitat for shrimp and oyster reefs. Generations of local families have dedicated their lives to these traditional coastal trades, helping to sustain the region's economy and culinary heritage. Over the years, the seafood industry has evolved, adapting to modern techniques and market demands. Today, local fishermen face challenges such as rising fuel costs and competition from imported seafood, making community support more crucial than ever.
Brunswick Catch: Preserving the Local Seafood Industry
Brunswick Catch is an initiative aimed at sustaining the heritage and livelihood of Brunswick County's seafood industry. The community program was developed by a dedicated group of commercial fishermen, seafood dealers, and restaurant owners passionate about preserving the industry and the coastal ecosystem. By promoting and educating the public about locally harvested seafood, Brunswick Catch strives to increase demand and ensure the industry's future.
Visiting Local Seafood Markets
During your visit to the Brunswick Islands, continue a family tradition or start a new one of your own with a seafood feast featuring fresh catches from a variety of markets throughout the area!
- Potter's Seafood in Southport - The Potter family has been a cornerstone of the Southport seafood industry since 1899, offering fresh fish, shrimp, oysters, and more.
- Waterfront Seafood Shack Market & Eatery in Calabash - This market provides seafood straight from its own boats, the Calabash Fishing Fleet.
- Haag and Sons Seafood in Oak Island – This local market is operated by the Haag family, who enjoy welcoming visitors and sharing their family recipes to use for your fresh catch.
- Holden's Seafood in Shallotte - A family-operated market offering a wide variety of fresh, local seafood for both wholesale and retail customers.
- Island Seafood Company in Ocean Isle Beach – Perfect for visitors in Ocean Isle Beach and Sunset Beach, Island Seafood Company offers crab, local clams and a seasonal variety of fresh caught fish throughout the year.
- Old Ferry Seafood in Holden Beach – Located right on the Intracoastal Waterway, this local market offers a variety of fresh, local seafood. Owners Phil and Anna Robinson are happy to offer tips and recommendations to help visitors prepare their own seafood feast.
Check out the map below for the full list of seafood markets across the Brunswick Islands. And for a list of seafood eateries, make sure to visit our Restaurants page here.
Best Seasons for Fresh Seafood
Depending on the dates of your visit, some varieties of fish and shellfish are more abundant in the waters around the Brunswick Islands. Be sure to check with seafood markets for their recommendations and availability.
- Common favorites, seabass and amberjack are abundant year-round
- Snapper is typically available from April to September
- King mackerel high season is June to November
- North Carolina shrimp high season runs from June through fall
- Oysters are best starting in October and through the winter months
- Blue crab season spans from May to September
Of course, you can always catch your own unforgettable meal. North Carolina’s Brunswick Islands is home to experienced and knowledgeable charters capable of taking your party on an offshore adventure in search of the tastiest seafood for dinner. Our ocean piers, staffed and stocked by friendly locals, are also great spots to drop a line.
Restaurant and Festival Dining
If you're looking for somewhere to enjoy fresh seafood without doing all the cooking, plan a visit to one of our many local seafood restaurants. Look out for menu items labeled with "fresh" or "daily" catch for locally caught seafood and ask your server where the restaurant sources its seafood. Many restaurants maintain close relationships with family run seafood markets across the Brunswick Islands.
The North Carolina Oyster Festival in Ocean Isle Beach, held annually during North Carolina Oyster Month in October, is a must visit for shellfish lovers. In addition to watching or competing in the oyster shucking and eating competitions, visitors can also purchase tickets to the festival's Oyster Stew competition to sample recipes from across the region.
How to Have a Fresh Seafood Meal at Home
Select the freshest seafood by visiting local markets and talking to the fishermen. They are happy to share their recommendations and maritime stories! Simple recipes, such as grilled shrimp or seafood boils, allow the natural flavors to shine.
Ready to start cooking? Try your hand at the recipe for the Calabash Steam Pot, provided by the Waterfront Seafood Shack Market & Eatery. If you'd like some help with the set-up at your vacation rental, make sure to check out Cape Fear Boil Company or Outer Banks Boil Company, both based on Oak Island
Support Local and Plan Your Visit
Supporting local fishermen and markets not only benefits the community but also ensures the sustainability and quality of seafood. On your next visit, plan a culinary adventure and visit the Brunswick Islands' seafood markets for a unique and delicious experience celebrating this vital industry! Visit www.ncbrunswick.com to plan your trip, or get started by requesting a North Carolina's Brunswick Islands Vacation Guide.