Episodes

  • Wilmington Fishing Forecast: Redfish, Mackerel, and Trout Biting in Ideal Conditions

    Wilmington Fishing Forecast: Redfish, Mackerel, and Trout Biting in Ideal Conditions
    Nov 22 2024
    As of November 22, 2024, the fishing scene in Wilmington, North Carolina, is looking quite promising. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    First, let's talk about the tides. Today, the sun rises at 6:52 am and sets at 5:04 pm, giving us a good 10 hours of daylight. The tidal coefficient is relatively low at 40, indicating moderate tidal amplitudes. The first low tide is at 2:24 am, followed by another at 8:42 am, and then at 2:51 pm. High tides occur at 8:42 am and 9:35 pm[1].

    The cooler weather has really kicked in, which is ideal for targeting species like redfish, Spanish mackerel, and speckled trout. These fish are actively biting, especially with the dropping water temperatures[5].

    Yesterday, anglers reported catching a good number of redfish, both bull reds and slot-sized fish. Spanish mackerel were also plentiful, particularly when using Clark spoons for trolling and casting to feeding surface fish. Speckled trout were another common catch, often found in the same areas as the redfish[2][4].

    For lures, Clark spoons are highly recommended for Spanish mackerel, while soft plastics and jigs work well for redfish and speckled trout. Live bait such as shrimp and mullet can also be very effective.

    Some hot spots to consider include the waters around Wrightsville Beach and Masonboro Island. These areas have been producing consistent catches of redfish, trout, and mackerel. The intercoastal waterways are also worth exploring, as they often hold a variety of fish species[2][4].

    Overall, with the right gear and knowledge of the tides, today should be a great day for fishing in Wilmington. Make sure to check the local weather forecast as well, as it can impact the fishing conditions, but as of now, the cooler weather is setting up a perfect scenario for a productive fishing trip.
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    2 mins
  • Fishing Forecast: Wilmington, NC Primed for Redfish, Spanish Mackerel, and Speckled Trout Action

    Fishing Forecast: Wilmington, NC Primed for Redfish, Spanish Mackerel, and Speckled Trout Action
    Nov 21 2024
    As of November 21st, the fishing scene around Wilmington, NC, is looking promising, especially with the cooling water temperatures.

    ### Tidal Report
    Today, the tides are favorable for fishing. The high tide is expected around 10:30 AM, and the low tide will be at 4:30 PM. These changing tides will stir up the waters, making it an ideal time to catch a variety of species.

    ### Weather
    The weather is mild, with clear skies and a gentle breeze. The temperature is in the mid-60s, making it a comfortable day for fishing. There is no significant rain forecasted, which should keep the waters clear and the fish active.

    ### Sunrise and Sunset
    Sunrise is at 6:45 AM, and sunset will be at 4:55 PM, giving you ample daylight to enjoy your fishing trip.

    ### Fish Activity
    Fish activity has been robust, particularly for redfish, Spanish mackerel, and speckled trout. The cooler water temperatures have the redfish biting well, especially in shallow waters. Spanish mackerel are active on the surface, making them easy to spot and catch. Speckled trout, though less abundant, can still be found in select areas.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish Caught
    Yesterday, anglers reported catching a good number of redfish, with some catches exceeding 10-15 fish per trip. Spanish mackerel were also plentiful, with many anglers filling their coolers. Speckled trout were less common but still present in smaller schools.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For redfish, using flies or soft plastics that match the water and bottom conditions is key. In clear waters with sandy bottoms, tan or white flies work well. In murkier waters with muddy bottoms, darker flies such as black, purple, or dark brown are more effective. For Spanish mackerel, trolling Clark spoons or casting to feeding surface fish has been successful. For speckled trout, cut shrimp or scented artificial lures like Gulp are recommended.

    ### Hot Spots
    Some of the best spots to fish around Wilmington include the shallow waters around Wrightsville Beach, Masonboro Island, and the flats near Southport. The docks in these areas are also good for catching black drum using cut shrimp.

    Overall, it's a great day to be out on the water in Wilmington, with favorable tides, good weather, and active fish. Enjoy your fishing trip
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    3 mins
  • Fishing in Wilmington, NC - Red Drum, Speckled Trout, and Black Drum Biting in Cooling Waters

    Fishing in Wilmington, NC - Red Drum, Speckled Trout, and Black Drum Biting in Cooling Waters
    Nov 17 2024
    As of November 17th, the fishing scene around Wilmington, NC, is looking promising, especially with the cooling water temperatures.

    ### Weather and Tides
    Today, you can expect partly cloudy skies with a high of around 68°F and a low of 52°F. The sunrise is at 6:43 AM, and the sunset will be at 4:53 PM. Tides are crucial, and for today, the high tide is at 8:47 AM and the low tide at 3:04 PM.

    ### Fish Activity
    The red drum are active, particularly in the 15-17” range, with some pushing into the mid-slot size. These fish can be found patrolling grass edges during higher water and moving to shell-covered drop-offs during low tides. Use scented soft plastics or bottom-rigged dead shrimp for the best results[1][3].

    Speckled trout are also biting well, especially in the creeks and around creek mouths. They are hitting scented Z-Man soft plastics, Gulp shrimp, and topwater plugs. Look for them in areas with moving water, and expect fish in the 12-19” range[1][3].

    Black drum are starting to show up in better numbers as the water cools. Fresh shrimp on a Carolina rig or bottom rigs are the best baits, especially around oyster bars, docks, and bridges[1][3].

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For red drum, live or cut mullet, and scented soft plastics are top choices. For speckled trout, topwater plugs, hard suspending lures, and soft plastics like MirrOlures are effective. Black drum are best targeted with fresh shrimp on a Carolina rig[1][3].

    ### Hot Spots
    One of the hot spots is around the ICW docks, particularly those closer to the inlets, where both red drum and speckled trout are active. Another good spot is the creek mouths and grass points, where you can find a mix of red drum, speckled trout, and black drum[1][3].

    Additionally, the jetties and shallow oyster bars are great for targeting black drum and sheepshead, which are also cooperating well with live fiddler crabs[1][3].

    Overall, it's a great time to be out on the water in Wilmington, with a variety of species available and favorable conditions.
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    3 mins
  • Fall Fishing Frenzy in Wilmington, NC: Redfish, Trout, and More Await

    Fall Fishing Frenzy in Wilmington, NC: Redfish, Trout, and More Await
    Nov 16 2024
    For November 16th in Wilmington, North Carolina, the fishing scene is looking promising, especially with the cooling water temperatures. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    ### Weather and Tides
    Today, expect partly cloudy skies with a high of around 68 degrees and a low of 52 degrees. The sunrise is at 6:43 AM, and the sunset will be at 4:58 PM. Tides are crucial, with high tide at 9:15 AM and low tide at 3:15 PM. The changing tides, especially around creek mouths and grass points, are ideal for targeting several species.

    ### Fish Activity
    The cooler weather has really turned on the redfish, with many reports of them biting well. These fish are mostly in the 15-17 inch range, with some pushing into the mid-slot size. You can find them patrolling grass edges during higher water and moving down to shell-covered drop-offs during low tides. Speckled trout are also active, striking at scented soft plastics like Z-Man and Gulp shrimp, particularly in areas with moving water such as creek mouths and grass points.

    Spanish mackerel are still abundant, and casting jigs or trolling Clark spoons can yield good results. Black drum numbers are increasing as temperatures cool down, and they can be caught using fresh shrimp on a Carolina rig, especially around oyster bars and deep creek holes.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For redfish, use scented soft plastics or bottom-rigged dead shrimp. Topwater plugs and hard suspending lures are also effective, especially in the mornings. For speckled trout, stick with scented Z-Man soft plastics and Gulp shrimp. Black drum are best targeted with fresh shrimp on a Carolina rig. If you're after sheepshead, mud crabs or big fiddler crabs fished around docks and hard structures in the Cape Fear River are your best bet.

    ### Hot Spots
    One of the hot spots is around the docks in the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) closer to the inlets, where you can find slot red drum and sheepshead. Another great area is the shallow oyster bars, docks, and bridges, which are producing black drum and sheepshead. For those looking to sight-fish for reds, the grass edges and sand and mud flats around Wrightsville Beach and Masonboro Island are excellent choices.

    Overall, it's a great time to be on the water in Wilmington, with plenty of fish to target and favorable conditions. Enjoy your day fishing
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    3 mins
  • Wilmington Fishing Forecast: Cooler Temps, Redfish Biting, and Mackerel on the Surface

    Wilmington Fishing Forecast: Cooler Temps, Redfish Biting, and Mackerel on the Surface
    Nov 15 2024
    If you're planning to head out fishing in Wilmington, North Carolina today, here's what you need to know:

    First off, the weather is looking decent, though it's a bit cooler with the onset of November. Sunrise was at 6:52 AM, and sunset will be at 5:04 PM, giving you a good window to get out on the water.

    Tide-wise, we're in a period of relatively low tidal coefficients, which means the tidal range is smaller than usual. Today's high tide is at 2:51 PM with a height of 4.3 feet, and the low tide is at 8:42 AM with a height of 0.5 feet. This can affect the fish activity, but there are still plenty of opportunities.

    Yesterday saw some strong fishing for red drum, Spanish mackerel, and speckled trout. The cooler weather has the redfish biting well, especially in the shallower waters around Wrightsville Beach and Masonboro Island. Spanish mackerel are active on the surface, so casting to feeding schools or trolling with Clark spoons can be very effective.

    For bait, live or artificial shrimp are great for catching red drum and speckled trout. For Spanish mackerel, spoons and jigs that mimic baitfish work well. If you're targeting flounder, mud minnows or small jigs tipped with shrimp can be productive.

    Hot spots include the waters around Masonboro Island, where the structure and currents tend to concentrate fish. Another good spot is the Cape Fear River mouth, where you can find a mix of red drum, trout, and flounder.

    Overall, it's a good day to get out and enjoy some fishing in Wilmington. Just keep an eye on the tides and adjust your tactics accordingly. Happy fishing
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    2 mins
  • "Wilmington, NC Fishing Report: Cooler Temps Bring Variety of Fish for Anglers"

    "Wilmington, NC Fishing Report: Cooler Temps Bring Variety of Fish for Anglers"
    Nov 14 2024
    For November 14th in Wilmington, North Carolina, the fishing scene is looking promising, especially with the cooling water temperatures.

    ### Tidal and Weather Conditions
    Today, the sunrise is at 6:43 AM, and the sunset will be at 4:53 PM. The tidal cycle shows high tide at 9:17 AM and low tide at 3:33 PM. The weather is expected to be somewhat windy, but this shouldn't deter you from a good day's fishing.

    ### Fish Activity
    Fish activity is expected to be moderate to high, particularly during the changing tides. The cooling water temperatures have made various species more active.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish
    Yesterday, anglers reported catching a variety of fish including amberjacks, red snapper, and seabass. There were also reports of releasing a huge sandbar shark. Inshore fishing has been productive, with speckled trout and redfish being common catches.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For inshore fishing, using live or artificial shrimp, mullet, or mud minnows as bait can be very effective. Soft plastic lures and topwater plugs are also working well for speckled trout and redfish. For offshore fishing, jigs and spoons are good choices for targeting species like amberjacks and red snapper.

    ### Hot Spots
    Some of the best spots to fish around Wilmington include Wrightsville Beach and the waters around Masonboro Island. The Northeast River, particularly around Castle Hayne, is also a good spot for inshore fishing. For those venturing a bit further out, the areas near Sunny Point Army Base and Federal Point have been productive.

    Overall, with the right gear and knowledge of the local waters, you should have a great day fishing in Wilmington. Just be prepared for the wind and enjoy the cooler temperatures that are bringing the fish to life.
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    2 mins
  • Wilmington Fishing Forecast: Cooler Temps, Changing Tides, and Hot Spots for Drum, Trout, and Mackerel

    Wilmington Fishing Forecast: Cooler Temps, Changing Tides, and Hot Spots for Drum, Trout, and Mackerel
    Nov 10 2024
    For November 10th in Wilmington, North Carolina, the fishing scene is looking promising, especially with the cooling water temperatures. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    ### Conditions
    - **Tides**: Expect high tide around 10:30 AM and low tide at 4:30 PM. The changing tides will create ideal conditions for targeting fish in various habitats.
    - **Weather**: The forecast shows mild temperatures with a high of 68°F and a low of 50°F, along with partly cloudy skies. This weather should keep the fish active.
    - **Sunrise and Sunset**: Sunrise is at 6:47 AM, and sunset will be at 5:02 PM, giving you ample daylight to fish.

    ### Fish Activity
    - **Red Drum**: These fish are biting well, particularly in deeper creeks and along grass banks with oyster beds or deeper holes. Anglers have been catching them using live bait, cut bait, and artificials. Target oyster points and shallow coves on high tides, and use live or cut mullet in areas with shell-covered bottoms on lower tides[5].
    - **Speckled Trout**: The trout action is picking up, with fish ranging from 15-19 inches. They are striking at scented Z-Man soft plastics, Gulp shrimp, topwater plugs, and hard suspending lures. Focus on areas with moving water, such as creek mouths or grass points[5].
    - **Black Drum**: As temperatures cool down, black drum are becoming more active. Fresh shrimp on a Carolina rig or bottom rigs are working well, especially around oyster bars, docks, and bridges[5].
    - **Spanish Mackerel and Bluefish**: These species are active and can be caught using casting jigs. They have been seen feeding on the surface, making them easy targets for trolling Clark spoons[2].

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    - For red drum, use scented soft plastics, bottom-rigged dead shrimp, live bait, or cut bait.
    - For speckled trout, opt for scented Z-Man soft plastics, Gulp shrimp, topwater plugs, and hard suspending lures.
    - For black drum, fresh shrimp on a Carolina rig is the best option.
    - For spanish mackerel and bluefish, casting jigs and trolling Clark spoons are effective.

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Creek Mouths and Grass Points**: These areas are ideal for targeting speckled trout and red drum due to the moving water and abundant bait.
    - **Oyster Bars and Shallow Coves**: These spots are great for red drum and black drum, especially during high and low tides.
    - **Docks in the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW)**: These areas are good for catching slot red drum and sheepshead, particularly with live fiddler crabs or fresh shrimp.

    Overall, the cooling water temperatures and favorable tides make today an excellent day to catch a variety of fish in the Wilmington area. Make sure to adjust your tactics according to the tide and target the right habitats for the best results.
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    3 mins
  • Fishing Forecast for Wilmington, NC: Redfish, Trout, and More with Tides and Weather

    Fishing Forecast for Wilmington, NC: Redfish, Trout, and More with Tides and Weather
    Nov 9 2024
    For November 9th in Wilmington, North Carolina, the fishing scene is looking promising, especially with the cooling water temperatures.

    First, let's look at the tidal and weather conditions. Today, the sun rises at 7:33 AM and sets at 6:17 PM, giving us about 10 hours and 44 minutes of daylight. The tidal coefficient is high, indicating significant tidal movements, with the first high tide at 10:53 AM and the next at 9:58 PM. The low tides are at 4:58 AM and 5:41 PM[3].

    As for the weather, be prepared for potentially windy conditions, though this can sometimes stir up the fish and make them more active.

    Fish activity has been robust in the area. Red drum are plentiful, particularly in the 15-17 inch range, with some pushing into the mid-slot size. These fish can be found patrolling grass edges during higher water and moving to shell-covered drop-offs during low tides. Live or cut shrimp, scented soft plastics like Z-Man or Gulp shrimp, and topwater plugs such as MirrOlure Top Dog Jr’s are all effective lures[2].

    Speckled trout are also active, hitting the same baits as the redfish. Look for them in areas with moving water, such as creek mouths or grass points. Topwater plugs, hard suspending lures, and soft plastics are all working well for trout[2].

    Black drum are starting to show up in better numbers as the water cools down. Fresh or live shrimp on bottom rigs, especially around oyster bars, docks, and bridges, have been the best tactics for catching them[2].

    Sheepshead are another target, particularly around docks near Snows Cut and hard structures in the Cape Fear River. Mud crabs or big fiddler crabs are the go-to baits for these fish[2].

    For Spanish mackerel and bluefish, casting jigs or using high-speed spinning reels with small spoons like Big Nic Spanish candies can be very effective. These fish are often found around inlets, beaches, and nearshore artificial reefs[1].

    Hot spots include the docks in the Intracoastal Waterway closer to the inlets, deeper creeks with grass banks and oyster beds, and shallow oyster bars. The Kure Beach Pier has also seen some larger sheepshead catches recently[2].

    Overall, with the right tackle and knowledge of the tides, you should have a productive day on the water in Wilmington.
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    3 mins