Dive into the bounty of Onslow County, NC! Here, fresh isn't just a word, it's a way of life. From reeling in plump shrimp to crabbing with the locals, or shucking your own salty clams, Onslow County offers a taste of the coast's bounty. Get ready to get your hands dirty and savor the delicious rewards of the Carolina Sea!
There are three main ways to enjoy seafood in Onslow County:
1. Chartered Boat Trips: Several companies offer guided adventures. Climb aboard a charter boat with a knowledgeable captain who will take you to the best spots and show you the ropes (pun intended) of shrimping, clamming, crabbing and more. These trips are perfect for families and groups of friends, and you get to keep a portion of the catch for a delicious dinner!
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- Head out on the water with Reel Livin' Fishing Charters in Sneads Ferry, NC for a unique shrimping and crabbing adventure. Captain Tommie Jarman, a local with a passion for the water, will guide you on the New River. You can lend a hand hauling in the nets or simply relax and watch the pros at work. Even better, the first 50 pounds of shrimp you catch and any crabs are yours to keep! Learn more about shrimping with this business at Our State Magazine. Shrimping season is in the fall.
- Explore the bounty of the Intracoastal Waterway with Topsail Intracoastal Adventures in Sneads Ferry, NC. Their clamming and oyster trips offer a fun, hands-on experience. You'll learn about these tasty shellfish and their importance to the ecosystem. Get ready to dig for clams and slurp fresh oysters straight from the source – a delicious adventure for the whole family! Clamming season is in the summer.
- Learn more about seafood on other boating trips such as Carolina Swan Tours, Pogie's Fishing Center and with the NC Oyster Trail.



2. Buying Fresh Seafood from Local Markets:
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Onslow County isn't just a place to enjoy delicious seafood dishes - it's a prime location to pick up the freshest catches yourself! Here's a look at what Onslow County's seafood markets offer:
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Local Bounty: Expect to find a wide variety of locally sourced seafood, from plump shrimp and delicate scallops to flaky white fish like flounder and grouper. Don't forget the shellfish! Grab some fresh oysters, littleneck clams, or blue crabs for a seafood boil at home.
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Knowledgeable Staff: The friendly staff at these markets are often local themselves and passionate about seafood. They can answer your questions about different species, recommend cooking methods, and even help you clean your catch (if you're feeling adventurous!).
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Daily Catches: Since these markets work closely with local fishermen, the selection can change daily depending on what's fresh off the boat. This means you're guaranteed to get the absolute freshest seafood available.
Here are some of the popular Onslow County seafood markets to check out: Link coming soon
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3. Eating Fresh Seafood from Our Restaurants:
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- Local Catch Creations: Don't miss chef-inspired creations featuring seasonal catches. Think seared mahi-mahi with a tropical salsa, or pan-fried flounder drizzled with a creamy lemon butter sauce. See all our seafood restaurant listed here.
So, if you're looking for a fun and rewarding way to experience the beauty of Onslow County and enjoy some fresh, delicious seafood, then a hands on trip, seafood market or restaurant