10 North Carolina Fish Camps Locals Say Never Miss The Mark

When you’re craving authentic Southern seafood in North Carolina, nothing beats the charm of a traditional fish camp. These family-owned spots have been serving up crispy fried fish, golden hushpuppies, and warm hospitality for decades.

I’ve gathered the best fish camps that locals swear by, where every bite feels like coming home.

1. Good Hot Fish

Asheville’s newest treasure brings something fresh to the table. This spot opened its doors in January 2024 and quickly became a local favorite.

Black Appalachian flavors meet traditional fish camp cooking here. You’ll find shrimp burgers that rival any fancy restaurant, plus crab dip that keeps people coming back weekly.

Their Sea Island red peas and hushpuppies add authentic Southern soul to every meal.

2. Pisgah Fish Camp

Family traditions run deep at this mountain hideaway since 1968. Generations have gathered here to enjoy fresh mountain trout straight from local streams.

The hushpuppies earned legendary status years ago and still draw crowds today. Rustic wooden tables and mountain views create an atmosphere that feels frozen in time.

Every visit here reminds you why fish camps became a Carolina tradition worth preserving.

3. Twin Tops Fish Camp

Since 1967, cast-iron skillets have been sizzling at this Gastonia institution. Their flounder sandwiches practically melt in your mouth with each crispy, flaky bite.

Old-school cooking methods make all the difference here. Nothing compares to seafood cooked the way your grandparents remember it.

Locals know to arrive early on weekends because word spreads fast about quality this consistent.

4. Captain’s Cap

Walk into this Belmont landmark and you’ll feel like you’ve boarded a fishing vessel. Nautical decorations cover every wall, setting the perfect mood for a seafood feast.

Their catfish comes out so crispy it crackles with every forkful. Generous portions mean you’ll probably need a to-go box, but that’s half the fun.

Families pack this place because everyone finds something they love on the menu.

5. Amber Jack Seafood & Steaks

Commercial fishing roots run through this establishment’s DNA since 1978. The owners know seafood because they’ve lived and breathed it for decades.

Golden hushpuppies here set the standard that other restaurants try to match. Each one comes out perfectly crisp outside and fluffy inside.

Fresh catches arrive regularly, ensuring your meal tastes like it came straight from the ocean that morning.

6. Catfish Cove

Secret recipes make this family-run spot stand out from every competitor. Their tartar sauce recipe has been guarded like treasure since the 1970s, and one taste explains why.

Catfish arrives at your table golden-brown and perfectly seasoned every single time. Consistency matters when you’re building a reputation that spans five decades.

Regulars treat the staff like extended family because that’s exactly how they’re treated here.

7. Long Creek Fish Fry

Roadside gems like this prove you don’t need fancy décor for outstanding food. Simple wooden benches and paper plates let the crispy fried fish do all the talking.

Portions here could feed a small army without breaking your budget. Locals appreciate honest cooking that doesn’t try to be something it’s not.

Pull off the highway and you’ll understand why cars fill the gravel parking lot every evening.

8. Forest City Fish Camp

Southern seafood classics have been perfected here since 1972. Their signature Fish Camp Dust seasoning adds magic to everything it touches.

Hushpuppies practically fly off the griddle and onto tables throughout the dining room. You can buy their special seasoning to take home, though nothing beats eating it fresh here.

Three generations have fine-tuned these recipes into something truly special and worth celebrating.

9. Riverside Fish House

Waterfront dining brings extra charm to your fish camp experience here. Watching the river flow by while enjoying crispy seafood creates memories that last forever.

Their outdoor deck fills up quickly during warm months for good reason. Fresh air and fresh fish make an unbeatable combination that diners crave.

Evening sunsets over the water add romance to what’s already an incredible meal worth savoring slowly.

10. Carolina Catch Seafood

Families gather around big tables here for celebrations that center around incredible seafood. Their fried shrimp comes in baskets so generous you’ll wonder how they stay in business.

Homemade coleslaw and sweet tea complement every entrée perfectly. Simple sides prepared with care make good meals great ones.

Kids eat free on certain nights, making this spot budget-friendly for parents seeking quality without compromise.

11. Blue Gill Grill

Fishing memorabilia covers every inch of wall space, telling stories of legendary catches. This place celebrates Carolina fishing culture while serving up plates that honor those traditions.

Their fried fish and french fries combo keeps things simple but satisfying. Sometimes the best meals don’t need complicated ingredients or fancy presentations.

Local fishermen stop by after long days on the water, which tells you everything about authenticity.

12. Dockside Seafood Shack

Casual doesn’t begin to describe the laid-back vibe at this waterfront favorite. Picnic tables, paper napkins, and plastic baskets create the ultimate no-fuss dining experience.

Their seafood baskets overflow with shrimp, oysters, and fish that taste ocean-fresh. Salt air and good food combine into something magical that fancy restaurants can’t replicate.

Locals know this spot delivers consistent quality without any pretension or unnecessary frills attached.