Episodes

  • Wilmington, NC's Fall Fishing Frenzy: Redfish, Trout, and Mackerel Abound

    Wilmington, NC's Fall Fishing Frenzy: Redfish, Trout, and Mackerel Abound
    Oct 3 2024
    As of October 3, 2024, the fishing scene in Wilmington, NC, is buzzing with activity as the fall season kicks into full gear. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    ### Tidal and Weather Conditions
    The sunrise today is at 7:04 AM, and sunset is at 6:47 PM. Tides are moderate, with a high tide at 9:15 AM and a low tide at 3:15 PM. The weather is mild, with a high of 75°F and a low of 60°F, making it ideal for a day of fishing.

    ### Fish Activity
    The inshore waters of Wilmington are teeming with life. Redfish, particularly, are biting extremely well, with many being pulled out of the shallow water flats and along the edges of the marsh grass. Sea Trout are also biting consistently, with several trips yielding great numbers over the past week. Flounder fishing remains strong, especially when targeting the bottom of shallow water areas.

    Nearshore, Spanish Mackerel and Bluefish are becoming more prevalent, especially off the beachfronts and local piers. False Albacore have started showing up in the 2-5 mile areas, adding some excitement to the day. King Mackerel, though not yet in full force near the beaches, can still be found in the 8-15 mile range, striking at dead cigar minnows or live bait.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For Redfish, live mullet and cut bait along grass lines and around docks are proving effective. For Sea Trout, topwaters in the morning and bottom-rigged live baits around creek mouths and oyster beds are the way to go. Flounder are hitting bottom-rigged live baits as well.

    For Spanish Mackerel and Bluefish, trolling Clarkspoons and mackerel trees, or casting at surface-feeding schools, is highly recommended. King Mackerel are best targeted with dead cigar minnows or live bait.

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Masonboro Island and Wrightsville Beach**: These areas are known for their rich inshore waters, perfect for chasing Redfish, Sea Trout, and Flounder.
    - **The Jetties**: Bull Red Drum are being caught here using cut bait, and slot-sized Red Drum are also present.
    - **Local Piers**: Places like Johnnie Mercers Pier are seeing a lot of action from Spanish Mackerel, Bluefish, and even the occasional Cobia.

    With the cooler weather setting in, the fish are becoming more active, making this an excellent time to get out on the water and enjoy some of the best fall fishing Wilmington has to offer.
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    3 mins
  • Wilmington's Inshore Fishing Frenzy: Redfish, Trout, and Flounder Abound in the Fall

    Wilmington's Inshore Fishing Frenzy: Redfish, Trout, and Flounder Abound in the Fall
    Oct 2 2024
    As of October 2, 2024, the fishing scene in Wilmington, North Carolina is buzzing with activity. The weather is mild, with a gentle breeze and clear skies, making it an ideal day to hit the waters.

    Sunrise today is at 7:04 AM, and sunset will be at 6:47 PM, giving you a full day to enjoy the fall fishing season. The tidal report shows a falling tide in the morning, which has been producing a better bite lately.

    Inshore anglers are having a fantastic time, with Redfish, Sea Trout, and Flounder being the top catches. Redfish, in particular, are biting extremely well, especially in the shallow water flats and along the edges of the marsh grass. Just a few days ago, a client achieved an inshore slam on all three species.

    Sea Trout are also biting consistently, with several trips yielding great numbers over the past week. For Flounder, fishing the bottom of these shallow water areas is still producing strong results.

    While Spanish Mackerel are starting to thin out, Kingfish, false albacore, and bonito are plentiful, offering some exciting drag-pulling action. As we move towards the end of the month, the Sea Trout bite is expected to get even stronger, with better quality fish showing up.

    For lures, using Z-man soft plastics or live bait such as shrimp and mullet have been highly effective. For those targeting Redfish, working the edges of the marsh grass with these lures can be very productive.

    Hot spots include the areas around Wrightsville Beach and Masonboro Island. The shallow water flats near these locations have been particularly fruitful for Redfish and Sea Trout. Additionally, the inshore waters near the Cape Fear River mouth are known for their rich fishery and diverse species.

    Overall, it's a great time to be out on the water in Wilmington, with plenty of fish to catch and beautiful fall weather to enjoy.
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    2 mins
  • Wilmington Fishing Report: Redfish, Trout, and Mackerel Bite Strong in Crisp Autumn Conditions

    Wilmington Fishing Report: Redfish, Trout, and Mackerel Bite Strong in Crisp Autumn Conditions
    Oct 1 2024
    As we step into October in Wilmington, North Carolina, the fishing scene is buzzing with activity. Here’s what you can expect on this crisp autumn day.

    ### Tidal and Weather Conditions
    Today, October 1st, the sunrise is at 7:04 AM, and the sunset will be at 6:54 PM. The tidal cycle shows a high tide at 8:32 AM and a low tide at 2:32 PM, with moderate tidal ranges, which is ideal for inshore fishing. The weather is expected to be partly cloudy with a gentle breeze, making it a perfect day to be out on the water.

    ### Fish Activity
    The cooler weather has really turned on the fish in our area. Redfish, Sea Trout, and Flounder are the main targets for inshore anglers this time of year. Yesterday, anglers reported a strong bite from Redfish, particularly around the inshore waters near Wrightsville Beach and Masonboro Island. Spanish Mackerel and Bluefish are also active, especially when casting to feeding surface fish or trolling with Clark spoons.

    ### Catch Reports
    Anglers had a productive day yesterday, with several reports of full coolers. Captain Jamie's charter caught a variety of fish, including Redfish, Spanish Mackerel, and some Bluefish. The Redfish were biting well on topwater plugs and artificial lures, while the Spanish Mackerel were hitting Clark spoons and other trolling lures.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For Redfish, topwater plugs and artificial lures are currently outperforming natural baits. For Spanish Mackerel and Bluefish, trolling with Clark spoons or casting to feeding surface fish has been highly effective. If you're targeting Sea Trout and Flounder, live bait such as shrimp or mud minnows can be very productive.

    ### Hot Spots
    Two hot spots to consider are the inshore waters around Wrightsville Beach and Masonboro Island. These areas offer a mix of shallow flats, oyster beds, and deeper channels that attract a variety of species. Additionally, the nearshore reefs off the beachfront have been producing Atlantic bonito, Spanish Mackerel, and Bluefish.

    With the right conditions and the right gear, today promises to be an excellent day for fishing in Wilmington. So grab your rods, and let's get out there and catch some fish
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    3 mins
  • Wilmington Fishing Forecast: Redfish, Mackerel, and Flounder Abound in the Cooler Fall Weather

    Wilmington Fishing Forecast: Redfish, Mackerel, and Flounder Abound in the Cooler Fall Weather
    Sep 30 2024
    As of September 30, 2024, the fishing scene in Wilmington, North Carolina is looking promising, especially with the cooler weather setting in.

    ### Weather and Tidal Conditions
    Today, you can expect partly cloudy skies with a high of around 75°F and a low of 65°F. The sunrise is at 7:04 AM, and the sunset will be at 6:54 PM. Tides are crucial, and for today, the high tide is at 9:17 AM with a height of 4.5 feet, while the low tide is at 3:33 PM with a height of 0.3 feet.

    ### Fish Activity
    The cooler weather has really gotten the redfish biting well, along with a healthy presence of Spanish mackerel. Yesterday, anglers reported catching a good number of red drum, particularly in the creeks, along the Intracoastal Waterway docks, and near oyster rocks where bait is abundant. Flounder are also active, with live bait such as mud minnows and small finger mullet proving effective.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish Caught
    Anglers have been catching a mix of redfish, speckled trout, and flounder in the inshore waters. Spanish mackerel are plentiful when casting to feeding surface fish or trolling with Clark spoons. Some reports indicate catching up to 30 fish in a few hours, with a variety of species including redfish, trout, and mackerel.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For redfish, Carolina rigs with live or fresh cut bait such as menhaden or mullet are highly effective. Artificial lures like Berkley Gulp Shrimp on 1/8oz or 1/4oz Fusion Jigheads are also working well. Top-water lures like MirrOlure Top Dog Jr’s or Top Pup’s are good for early morning and late afternoon bites along marsh grass lines and shallow oyster rocks. For Spanish mackerel, casting small spoons like Big Nic Spanish candies on light spinning tackle is recommended.

    ### Hot Spots
    One of the hot spots is around the inlets and hard bottoms near Wrightsville Beach and Masonboro Island. The creeks and ICW docks are also prime areas for catching redfish. For those venturing a bit further out, the areas around the artificial reefs and the edge of the continental shelf are good for catching larger predator fish like king mackerel and amberjack.

    Overall, it's a great time to be out on the water in Wilmington, with plenty of fish to go around and favorable weather conditions. Just remember to pack your sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a snack or two to make the most of your fishing trip.
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    3 mins
  • Wilmington, NC Fishing Report: Reds, Flounder, and Spanish Mackerel Thrive in Transitional Weather

    Wilmington, NC Fishing Report: Reds, Flounder, and Spanish Mackerel Thrive in Transitional Weather
    Sep 29 2024
    As of September 29, 2024, the fishing scene around Wilmington, NC, is looking promising, especially with the transitioning weather.

    ### Weather and Tides
    Today, you can expect partly cloudy skies with a high of around 78°F and a low of 64°F. The winds will be light, coming in from the northeast at about 5 mph. Tides are crucial, and for today, the high tide is at 8:47 AM, and the low tide is at 3:04 PM.

    ### Sunrise and Sunset
    Sunrise is at 6:58 AM, and sunset will be at 6:54 PM, giving you ample time to enjoy both the morning and late afternoon bites.

    ### Fish Activity
    The cooler weather has really gotten the redfish fired up. They are actively feeding, especially in areas where mullet are abundant. You can find them in the creeks, along the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) docks, and around oyster rocks. Topwater plugs like MirrOlure Top Dog Jr’s or Top Pup’s are working well early in the morning, while artificial lures such as Berkley Gulp Shrimp on Fusion Jigheads are effective later in the day.

    Flounder fishing is also excellent, with many being caught on nearshore structures and inshore grass banks. Live bait like mud minnows and small finger mullet are highly effective, but artificial lures are also producing good results.

    Spanish mackerel are starting to show up near the inlets and along the beaches, particularly when there are cleaner water conditions. Casting small spoons like Big Nic Spanish candies or trolling Clark spoons can put some Spanish mackerel in your boat.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For redfish, use Carolina rigs with live or fresh cut bait such as mullet or menhaden. Artificial lures like Berkley Gulp Shrimp in colors like sugar spice glow or molting are also good options. For flounder, live bait such as mud minnows and small finger mullet are top choices. For Spanish mackerel, small spoons and trolling Clark spoons are recommended.

    ### Hot Spots
    - **ICW Docks and Oyster Rocks**: These areas are hotspots for redfish, especially with the mullet run in full swing.
    - **Nearshore Structures**: Places like the hard bottoms and artificial reefs are great for catching flounder and Spanish mackerel.
    - **Masonboro Island**: This area is known for its rich inshore waters and is a good spot for catching a variety of inshore gamefish including redfish, flounder, and Spanish mackerel.

    Overall, the fishing conditions are favorable, and with the right bait and lures, you should have a productive day on the water.
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    3 mins
  • "Wilmington Fishing Forecast: Redfish, Mackerel, and Flounder Abound in the Warm September Waters"

    "Wilmington Fishing Forecast: Redfish, Mackerel, and Flounder Abound in the Warm September Waters"
    Sep 28 2024
    As of September 28, 2024, the fishing scene around Wilmington, North Carolina, is looking promising. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    ### Weather and Tides
    The weather is expected to be warm with a slight cool-down, typical for this time of year. Sunrise is at around 7:00 AM, and sunset will be at about 7:00 PM. Tides are moderate, with a high tide at 9:30 AM and a low tide at 3:30 PM, making the early morning and late afternoon ideal times for fishing.

    ### Fish Activity
    Yesterday saw a lot of activity from redfish, Spanish mackerel, and flounder. The cooler weather has the redfish biting well, especially in the creeks, along the Intracoastal Waterway docks, and around oyster rocks. Spanish mackerel are abundant near the inlets, beaches, and artificial reefs, with schools often indicated by jumping fish and diving birds.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish
    Several anglers reported catching a good number of redfish, with some larger ones showing up on hard bottoms and around the inlets. Spanish mackerel were plentiful, with many caught using small spoons and trolling. Flounder fishing was also productive, particularly with live bait such as mud minnows and small finger mullet.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For redfish, Carolina rigs with live or fresh cut bait like mullet or menhaden are effective. Artificial lures such as Berkley Gulp Shrimp on 1/8oz or 1/4oz Fusion Jigheads, and top-water plugs like MirrOlure Top Dog Jr’s or Top Pup’s, work well along marsh grass lines and shallow oyster rocks. For Spanish mackerel, casting small spoons like Big Nic Spanish candies on light spinning tackle is recommended. For flounder, live bait on Carolina rigs or small artificial lures can be successful.

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Masonboro Island**: This area is known for its rich inshore waters and is a hotspot for catching redfish, flounder, and other inshore species.
    - **Intracoastal Waterway Docks**: These docks and the surrounding oyster rocks are great spots to target redfish and other inshore gamefish.
    - **Nearshore Artificial Reefs**: These reefs are excellent for catching Spanish mackerel, king mackerel, and other larger predator fish.

    With the mullet run starting to pick up, the fishing in Wilmington is only going to get better. So pack your gear, grab some sunscreen, and head out to enjoy the great fishing that September has to offer.
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    3 mins
  • Wilmington NC Fishing Report: Tides, Weather, and Top Spots for Redfish, Flounder, and Spanish Mackerel

    Wilmington NC Fishing Report: Tides, Weather, and Top Spots for Redfish, Flounder, and Spanish Mackerel
    Sep 27 2024
    As of September 27, 2024, the fishing scene in Wilmington, North Carolina, is looking promising. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    ### Tidal Report
    Today, the high tide is at 8:32 AM and 8:57 PM, with low tide at 2:33 PM. These tidal changes will bring in a fresh supply of bait, making it an ideal time to catch some of the area's prized species.

    ### Weather
    The weather is expected to be partly cloudy with a high of 78°F and a low of 64°F. The gentle breeze and cooler temperatures make for perfect fishing conditions.

    ### Sunrise and Sunset
    Sunrise is at 7:01 AM, and sunset will be at 7:04 PM, giving you ample daylight to explore the waters.

    ### Fish Activity
    Yesterday saw a lot of activity from Redfish, Flounder, and Spanish Mackerel. The Redfish were particularly active in the creeks, along the Intracoastal Waterway docks, and around oyster rocks. Flounder were biting well on live bait and artificial lures, especially in areas with mud minnows and small finger mullet. Spanish Mackerel were abundant near the inlets and along the beaches, with many caught using small spoons and high-speed spinning reels.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish Caught
    Several anglers reported catching a good number of Redfish, with some bigger ones showing up in the ocean on hard bottoms and around the inlets. Flounder catches were consistent, with some larger ones taken on artificial lures. Spanish Mackerel were plentiful, and many were caught while casting to feeding surface fish and trolling Clark spoons.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For Redfish, Carolina rigs with live or fresh cut bait, such as menhaden or mullet, are highly effective. Artificial lures like Berkley Gulp Shrimp on Fusion Jigheads and top-water plugs like MirrOlure Top Dog Jr’s are also recommended. For Flounder, live bait like mud minnows and small finger mullet work well, while artificial lures such as small jigs and spoons can catch larger fish. For Spanish Mackerel, small spoons like Big Nic Spanish candies and high-speed spinning reels are the way to go.

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Masonboro Island**: Known for its rich inshore waters, this area is perfect for targeting Redfish, Flounder, and other inshore species.
    - **Intracoastal Waterway Docks**: These docks and surrounding oyster rocks are hot spots for Redfish, especially during the changing tides.
    - **Nearshore Artificial Reefs**: These areas attract a variety of fish, including Spanish Mackerel, King Mackerel, and other larger predator fish.

    With the right gear and knowledge of these hot spots, you're set for a great day of fishing in Wilmington, NC. Enjoy your time on the water
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    3 mins
  • Wilmington Fishing Forecast: Red Drum, Speckled Trout, and Flounder Abound on September 26, 2024

    Wilmington Fishing Forecast: Red Drum, Speckled Trout, and Flounder Abound on September 26, 2024
    Sep 26 2024
    As of September 26, 2024, the fishing scene in Wilmington, North Carolina, is looking promising. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    ### Tidal and Weather Conditions
    The sunrise today is at 6:58 AM, and sunset will be at 6:54 PM. Tides are crucial, and today you can expect a high tide at 9:17 AM and a low tide at 3:33 PM. The weather is forecasted to be partly cloudy with a high of 78°F and a gentle breeze out of the southeast.

    ### Fish Activity
    Red drum fishing continues to be steady, with these fish fired up due to the abundance of mullet in the inshore waters. You can find them staged up along the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) and on flats in the backs of the marshes. Speckled trout are also starting to show up, particularly in areas south of Wrightsville Beach and around the inlet and jetties.

    Flounder fishing has been exceptional, with tons of flounder on nearshore structures and grass banks inshore. Live bait has been the most effective, but they are also hitting artificials. Spanish mackerel and bluefish are active near the inlet and just outside, although the king mackerel bite is still slow and requires venturing out to the 15-20 mile range.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For red drum, topwater plugs have been successful early in the morning, followed by Z-Man soft plastics in sexy mullet or chartreuse color patterns once the sun is up. Chatterbaits and Carolina-rigged live mullet are also effective. For speckled trout, live mullet on Carolina rigs during the low to incoming tide has been productive.

    For flounder, live bait is the way to go, but they are also hitting artificials like 4-5” D.O.A. swim baits. Spanish mackerel and bluefish can be caught using casting action when the water conditions are clean.

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Intracoastal Waterway (ICW):** Target areas along the ICW, especially ICW docks during higher tides and grass banks during lower or falling tides.
    - **Wrightsville Beach and Masonboro Island:** These areas are known for their rich inshore waters, where you can catch redfish, speckled trout, and flounder.
    - **Jetties and Inlet:** These spots are good for catching red drum, speckled trout, and flounder, especially during the low to incoming tide.

    With the right gear and knowledge of these hot spots, you're set for a productive and enjoyable day of fishing in Wilmington, North Carolina.
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    3 mins