Most fish are high in protein and low in fat. Typically fish are naturally full of Omega 3 fatty acids, and a natural source of vitamin D, potassium.
Blueline (Grey) Tilefish are a deepwater wreck living fish. They like to live in and around hard bottoms or structures where they can hide in order to find their food. They feed off of organisms like tiny crabs and other crustaceans giving them a sweet flavor to their meat. It is a white flaky meat dense in texture. Tilefish are cousins to the grouper thus having the same texture in meat. Tilefish are easy to cook, they can be used in many different recipes from tacos to soups to gourmet meals.
Flounder is a flat illusive fish that many sportfisherman want to catch. It is a highly regulated fish both commercially and recreationally in NC. The meat is white and flaky with a delicate meat, that is bland in flavor. Flounder filets are loved by all due to its mild flavor, it typically tastes like whatever spices you cook it in.
Striped Bass is a fun fish to catch and can range in size from 18” to 55 pounds. Locally it can be found in the sounds as well as the ocean during certain times of the year. Rockfish is a white thick meat that has a buttery flavor. Any way you cook it, it’s going to be delicious.
Red Drum is the official state fish of North Carolina. The OBX is known for our large drum fishing especially from the surf. Red drum fish tastes like many other saltwater game fish. It has a mild, sweet flavor with firm meat that flakes into a large chunks . Younger fish tend to taste milder, while larger red drum fish have a robust fish flavor and firmer texture. It tastes very similar to black drum.
Mahi (also known as Dolphinfish) is a top dwelling tropical fish typically found offshore of North Carolina. In the summer months it can be found closer to the coastline. Mahi are amongst the fastest growing fish and can reach maturity in less than a year. Mahi can be found hiding in the shadows waiting for their food. They feed off of things like flying fish, crabs, and squid. Mahi are vibrant colored fish especially in the water with bright blues and greens and a golden under belly. When cooked Mahi is a clean white fish with no fishy flavor. It is flaky fish that can be cooked in many different ways. Mahi is full of natural vitamins and nutrients such as Vitamin B3 and B6, potassium, and selenium. It is high in protein and low in fat. Mahi is very low in mercury.
Speckled Trout is fun fish to catch on light tackle and can be found in large supply in the sound along the OBX. There are lots of charter boats taking people for sound trips in the spring and fall just targeting speckled trout. Speckled trout are very good to eat and have a moderate-flaky, white meat. It is softer than other inshore fish, so it is important to not overcook it or it will become very mushy. Also because of its texture, all trout is best fried or broiled.