This week has brought cooler temperatures and plenty of overcast skies. While the cloud cover hasn’t been ideal for sight fishing, it’s made for comfortable conditions to stay on the water all day. Water temperatures remain warm, with fewer windy days than in recent weeks, and overall, the fish are feeding well.
What’s Biting In the Bay/Ocean/Offshore
The bay continues to produce some excellent fishing across several species.
Sheepshead – The bite remains outstanding, with big fish coming to the scales Fiddler crabs and frozen sand fleas have been the top baits.
Spanish Mackerel – Still providing fantastic action throughout the bay and near the oceanfront.
Cobia – Fish are showing up in good numbers and anglers are finding success with both live bait and artificial presentations.
Flounder – They’re spread throughout the bay and ocean structure, giving anglers plenty of opportunities.
What’s Biting Inshore
The inshore bite has been a little slow. This past winter took a toll on trout and redfish populations, and we’re still seeing the effects. That said, there are still fish to be caught.
Flounder – The standout inshore species right now, with bucktails tipped with squid strips producing consistent action.
Croaker & Spot – Both are biting well and providing steady action for anglers fishing the rivers and inlets.
Bluefish – Plenty of blues are biting inshore and offshore and chewing a little bit of anything and everything.
Offshore:
The offshore bite continues to be one of the highlights of the season.
Black Sea Bass – Fishing has been excellent.
Spanish Mackerel – Still providing fast action offshore.
Bluefish – Plenty around the towers, windmills, and oceanfront.
Flounder – Holding on structure and producing well.
Tuna – A few fish are scattered offshore for those making the longer runs.
OBX
There was an “insane” bite of Spanish mackerel this week at The Point at Hatteras. Spanish were beached on almost every cast for an extended period. You shoulda’ been there.
On Jennette’s Peir in Nags Head, it was Spanish Mackerel, Bluefish, Sea Mullet, and a few small Spot. Offshore produced great catches of Mahi and yellowfin.
