
The 2025 North Carolina recreational flounder season runs from September 1 through September 14, with consistent regulations across both coastal and inland waters. To make the most of it, here’s how Captain Smiley Charter Fishing is planning to take advantage of this prime fall flounder window.
Flounder Season at a Glance
- Dates: Opens at 12:01 a.m. on September 1 and closes at 11:59 p.m. on September 14, 2025.
- Bag Limit: 1 fish per angler per day.
- Minimum Size: 15 inches total length (tip of snout to tip of tail) ([NC Wildlife][2]).
Altogether, these guidelines aim to allow anglers to enjoy the flounder run while keeping the fishery healthy.
Why This Timing Matters in Charter Fishing
Late summer through early fall is flounder prime time. As a result, when water temperatures dip from the summer peak, flounder move into shallow inlets and creeks to feed and layer over sandy bottoms — the perfect set-up for targeted charter trips ([captainsmileyfishingcharters.com][3]).
Captain Smiley Charter Fishing: Your Route to Catching Flounder

Although based in Little River, South Carolina, Captain Smiley’s crew—including seasoned guides like Captain Buddy “Love” Smith and Captain Patrick “Smiley” Kelly—frequently ventures north into North Carolina’s waters during this season ([captainsmileyfishingcharters.com][4]).
What Makes Their September Flounder Charters Special?
Insider Knowledge – Captain Buddy and team know prime flounder grounds like creek mouths, oyster beds, and tidal inlets in both SC and NC.
Time–Tested Tactics – Also, they drift or anchor in prime spots, often using live finger mullet or mud minnows to entice those keeper-sized flatfish.
Angler–Friendly Style – Whether you’re a first-time flounder chaser or a seasoned pro, the charters are inclusive and educational, with guides ready to teach proper rigging, reading tides, and playing the fish.
For updates, check out their Facebook page for reminders, such as “Now is the time to book your charter for North Carolina Flounder Season. Space is limited!”
Tips to Maximize Your Charter Fishing Trip

Book early – Charter slots fill fast once the season’s official.
Crew size – Additionally, go in small groups (up to 4–6 anglers) for optimal attention and more lines in the water.
Bring the basics – Tackle and bait (plus license) are available. Still, you bring sun protection, snacks, and fishing enthusiasm.
Learn the rules – NC rules allow one 15-inch flounder/day. Therefore, any keeper must be measured and recorded to ensure compliance.
Conservation Counts
And, this short season and strict limits are part of sustainable fishery management. In fact, the focus is on balancing recreational and commercial harvesting, with a 50/50 quota split proposed for 2025. Hence, anglers must responsibly harvest only what they intend to keep—and release others carefully.
Ready to Rally?
If you’re itching for a fall flounder adventure, Captain Smiley Charter Fishing offers expert guides, local insight, and fun on the water during September 1–14. Whether you’re targeting that solid 15-inch keeper or enjoying scenic estuaries, this season is perfect for memorable outings.
Final Take
So, North Carolina’s 2025 recreational flounder season is tailored for a short, sharp, conservation-minded fishery. With that in mind, Captain Smiley’s seasoned crew on deck makes it an ideal chance to land that keeper and learn the art of fall flounder fishing in coastal waters.
Spaces fill fast. Book your charter fishing trip now and get ready to flounder hunt with Captain Smiley this September!
Like our Facebook page for more information.
Captain Smiley Fishing Charters LLC.
4495 Baker St
Little River, SC 29566
(843) 361-7445
https://www.captainsmileyfishingcharters.com
catch@captainsmileyfishingcharters.com
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