So, what has been happening out on the water so far? In addition to the great bluefin fishing out of Oregon Inlet, both yellowfin tuna and some bigeye tuna have been caught. Blackfin tuna are being caught out of Hatteras. As early as late January, big red drum were being caught out of the Hatteras surf during that early spring we had. Typically, about 2 weeks after that bite starts, we get them here on Virginia’s Eastern Shore. It was simply way too early, but there were rumors of both red and black drum encounters on the seaside. Then winter came back and stopped that talk. Now that spring has come back, expect the red and black drum fisheries to begin soon.
Outer Banks
It was a big day at Cape Point on Wednesday with the Drum showing up as well as some huge Bluefish. It was reported that 15 to 20 citation drum were caught and released. The bluefish were running up to 32 inches. Some Puppy Drum beached as well. Sea Mullet, Blow Toads and Croaker catches were scattered along the South beaches.
Hatteras Harbor
Several boats were out on a beautiful Tuesday. Winds were fair and the temps were in the 70’s. At the end of the day, the docks were lined up with yellowfin and black fin tuna. Inshore boats also struck gold with a great catch of red drum. In addition, there were catches of albacore, sea bass, wahoo and dolphin.