Warm weather has kept the rockfish bite from exploding. The big stripers like the water colder, low 50’s, for example.
However, rockfish are still being caught within the small inlets, but are moving out towards the mouths of the inlets, along the main river. On the Rappahannock River, boats are picking up fish by trolling and jigging. Tandem rigs with 4- to 6-inch baits are taking keeper fish, and an occasional over-the-slot fish. The Elizabeth River has been producing some nice rocks recently.
The speckled trout bite continues to improve. Trout fishermen are also hooking up with puppy drum, and rockfish. CBBT anglers are catching big sheepshead, and tautog. The tautog bite will continue to improve as the water temps drop, but finding bait is getting tougher. Crab is best, but clam works also. There is great fishing now for Sea Bass on ocean wrecks. The Triangle Reef is a popular spot.
Big red drum are drawing attention all along the Outer Banks. The surf and pier fishermen are catching plenty of bluefish, puppy drum, spot, and sea mullet. The Sea Mullet are running big, up to two pounds. Trout and puppy drum action remains strong inside the sound. The boaters have been experiencing rough weather, so offshore reports have been limited. Success has been better from Hatteras ports, as big king mackerel are being caught with live bait. Black fin tuna, and a few Wahoo have also been caught.
Freshwater
Bass are scattered in most lakes and rivers. Crappie fishing has been better on the lakes when compared to bass, and stripers. The silvers are relating to brush and docks. Bridge areas are also good as the abutments provide current breaks.
Trout stocking is in full swing, but the streams are low and clear.