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50+ Years
experience
East Coast Sports | Surf City Fishing & Outdoor Gear
East Coast Sports has been a cornerstone of the Surf City community since 1952, evolving from a family-run ice house to a premier destination for fishing, boating, and outdoor recreation. Our deep-rooted commitment to quality and service is reflected in our carefully curated selection of trusted brands like Yeti, Sperry, and Costa Del Mar, alongside expert local advice from staff who understand the unique needs of anglers and outdoor enthusiasts. With over seven decades of experience, we combine generational knowledge with modern offerings to serve both longtime residents and visitors seeking reliable gear and insider tips.

Our dedication to the community extends beyond retail, as we actively support local traditions and provide resources for exploring Topsail Island's natural beauty. From fishing tackle to coastal apparel, we ensure every customer receives personalized attention and products that meet the demands of coastal living and adventure.
Services
Fishing Tackle Boating Apparel Equipment Rentals Local Fishing Tips Gift Cards Kids Apparel Coastal Gifts Outdoor Recreation Gear
Served areas
  • Surf City, Topsail Beach, North Topsail Beach, Holly Ridge, Sneads Ferry, Hampstead, Jacksonville, Wilmington
Details
  • Year established: 1952
Highlights and features
  • Family-owned since 1952 with deep local expertise in coastal recreation.
  • Knowledgeable staff providing expert fishing and outdoor activity guidance.
  • Offering a wide selection of trusted outdoor recreation brands.
  • Committed to exceptional personal service for every customer.
  • Proudly serving Surf City and Topsail Island communities for generations.
What people say
Great inventory Knowledgeable staff Exceptionally friendly Perfect Neso canopy Support local
Website
Services
Fishing Tackle
Our comprehensive tackle shop provides everything from basic hooks to specialized offshore gear. Staffed by experienced anglers, we offer expert recommendations for local fishing conditions targeting species like red drum, speckled trout, and mahi-mahi. Every purchase includes detailed advice on optimal rigging techniques and prime fishing locations.
Boating Apparel
We stock performance-oriented clothing from trusted brands like HUK and Columbia designed for coastal environments. Our selection includes UV-protective shirts, waterproof outerwear, and non-slip footwear to ensure comfort and safety on the water. Staff provide fitting assistance and material recommendations based on specific boating activities.
Equipment Rentals
Visitors can access essential outdoor equipment including fishing rods, kayaks, and beach umbrellas without prior planning. Our rental process includes safety briefings and equipment orientation to ensure proper usage. This service supports spontaneous adventures while maintaining safety standards for all skill levels.
Local Fishing Tips
Our staff provides real-time updates on local fishing conditions, including tide charts, species migration patterns, and regulatory changes. This information comes from daily interactions with local charter captains and ongoing participation in regional fishing communities. Customers receive location-specific recommendations to maximize their success rates.
Coastal Gifts
We offer curated coastal-themed gifts ranging from nautical decor to branded apparel. Our selection emphasizes locally sourced products and water-resistant materials suitable for beach environments. Gift wrapping services and personalized recommendations help customers find meaningful souvenirs for any occasion.
People
Doug Medlin
Owner
Doug Medlin has led East Coast Sports since 1981, continuing his family's tradition of providing quality outdoor gear and expert advice to Surf City residents and visitors. His hands-on approach ensures every customer receives personalized service based on decades of local experience.
Chris
Manager
Chris oversees daily operations at East Coast Sports, combining extensive product knowledge with a commitment to exceptional customer service. He ensures inventory meets the evolving needs of both casual visitors and serious anglers while maintaining the store's community-focused values.
Chaundel
Administrative Manager
Chaundel manages East Coast Sports' administrative operations, ensuring smooth business functions while maintaining the store's personal touch. Her organizational expertise supports both staff operations and customer service initiatives across the store's multiple service areas.
Jerry Brooks
Fishing Specialist
Jerry Brooks provides expert reel spooling services and fishing gear advice at East Coast Sports. Recognized by local charter services for his technical expertise, he offers personalized equipment setup and maintenance guidance to ensure optimal performance in local fishing conditions.
Emma
Customer Service
Emma delivers responsive customer service at East Coast Sports, specializing in quick problem resolution for urgent equipment needs. Her ability to efficiently match customers with appropriate products has earned consistent praise from both locals and visiting outdoor enthusiasts.
Questions
What makes East Coast Sports unique?
We combine 70+ years of local expertise with a curated selection of trusted brands, offering personalized service from staff who live and work in the coastal environment.
Do you offer equipment rentals?
Yes, we rent essential outdoor gear including fishing rods, kayaks, and beach equipment with safety instructions provided by experienced staff members.
Are your staff qualified to provide fishing advice?
Our team includes certified fishing specialists with decades of local experience, including recognized experts like Jerry Brooks who maintains industry partnerships.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept major credit cards, debit cards, and cash payments. Digital payment options are also available for online purchases and gift card transactions.
Do you serve areas beyond Surf City?
We primarily serve Surf City and Topsail Island but also support customers from Holly Ridge, Sneads Ferry, and Wilmington with local knowledge and delivery options.
Reviews (19)
Sarah G.
Apr 30, 2022 Report
Great selection and amazing customer service. They answered all my fishing questions and helped me choose the best products to meet my needs.
Brassai Mustin
Feb 26, 2022 Report
I love this place! The staff are so helpful and even give recommendations and it doesnt feel like your being upsaled. I would absolutely recomend to anyone intrested in coastal sporting!
Nicholas Dixon
Dec 06, 2021 Report
Really impressed with the selection of tackle and equipment East Coast offers. From the selection that they offer, you can tell that they are employees are very knowledgeable fisherman. They have the good stuff! Past the tackle and equipment, the service here is amazing. Jerry and Chuck have been hugely helpful in turning me into a speckled trout fisherman - I really appreciate it guys
Jennifer Schrage
Aug 09, 2021 Report
Thank you Sully and Doug! You guys (and a few other staff and store guests) saved the day for us. We came by in the spring after my clumsy son dropped his friend's expensive fishing pole in the sound. Although we retrieved it, the reel was caked in mud. You guys helped us salvage what was almost a completely ruined fishing pole/reel. As my son and I had no fishing knowledge, we really appreciated being treated with genuine kindness, patience, understanding and that you shared so much of your experience and knowledge to help us!

I can't thank you enough. In addition to appreciating the service of going above and beyond for us, we love your shop and the huge selection of products with everything we needed! My son now loves fishing, so we look forward to seeing y'all again soon when we bring him back to Topsail :)
Donald Beale
Jul 19, 2021 Report
Everything you need for fishing. From economical rod and reel combos to high end rods and reels. They have bait, all kinds of tackle ( inshore and offshore). Clean store. Like a candy land for fishermen.
Daniel Moore
Jul 04, 2021 Report
Friendly and knowledgeable staff. Probably easiest place on island to get fishing license. Good bait selection and decent prices
Casie R.
Jul 03, 2021 Report
I found exactly what I was looking for. Had a great experience customer service was excellent. I would recommend.
Michael Soignet
Apr 03, 2021 Report
Small bucket of flies, but I wish some place on the island carried more fly fishing gear. But still a great spot for everything else.
Jerry Brooks
Mar 25, 2021 Report
LOCAL OWNED AND OPERATED Biggest selection of offshore and inshore fishing equipment on the island. Tons of great clothes and souvenirs. The helpful staff are knowledgeable and eager to help. Some of the staff even fish the local waters multiple days a week so they have their "finger on the pulse" of whats biting around the island. Stop in and check them out.
Raymond Kredell
Mar 08, 2021 Report
Great store! Jerry is the man. Super helpful and got me set up with everything I needed to take the kids fishing in about 10 minutes. Go here for sure and talk with Jerry!
Bradley Singleton
Jan 10, 2021 Report
Great place to shop with a little of everything you need to get on the water. The employees helped set me up and I was catching fish in no time.
Melissa Klinge
Nov 25, 2020 Report
I love this place! The owner is an amazing man with a wonderful family. This place will have ALL your fishing needs!
Rick Petersen
Apr 28, 2020 Report
East Coast sports have been my go to spot for all fishing needs. They have all the equipment and bait and renew your license only minutes from water. I am glad they are open so I can safely acquire my bait and tackle.
Chris Ellis
Dec 26, 2019 Report
Helpful staff, Don was great. Opened on Christmas Eve which was much appreciated considering I needed to finish some shopping. Everyone come see Chris Medlin and his team when you are down.
Scott Miller
Oct 05, 2019 Report
Colin recommended a Diawa BG5000 reel paired with a Tsunami 9 ft MH Rod and it caught me a lot of fish on Topsail piers and in the surf. thanks Colin and East Coast Sports
Christopher Nowell
Dec 27, 2018 Report
Best place on Topsail/Surf City for fishing gear. Plus, these guys are super honest and will tell you straight up what you need to pull off the fishing you want to do. Bonus points for spooling your rod for you and the crazy wide selection of products.
Rick M.
Jun 20, 2018 Report
Stopped by to ask for advice as a noob saltwater angler. A little bit later I was catching fish in the surf and watching others as they looked on forelornly.
Wesley Pollard
May 31, 2018 Report
Great tackle shop! The staff is very helpful and friendly. My go to spot for tackle and bait. 5 stars
Alan Sasser
May 13, 2018 Report
Friendly and knowledgeable staff, great selection of fishing supplies, and excellent customer service.