Fall Fishing Frenzy Off North Carolina's Atlantic Coast

As of October 10, 2024, the fishing scene in the Atlantic Ocean off North Carolina is buzzing with activity. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

### Weather and Tides
Today, expect a sunny and clear morning with an air temperature of around 74 degrees. The water temperature is hovering at 75 degrees, perfect for the fall fishing season. Winds are light and from the west-northwest at about 9 mph. High tides are at 2:24 AM and 3:24 PM, with low tides at 8:52 AM and 9:24 PM.

### Sunrise and Sunset
Sunrise is at 7:13 AM, and sunset will be at 6:33 PM, giving you ample daylight to catch some of the best fish the Atlantic has to offer.

### Fish Activity
Yesterday saw a flurry of activity with various species biting aggressively. Bluefish, Spanish mackerel, and false albacore were among the most active. Bluefish were caught in good numbers, particularly around the shoals off Cape Lookout and nearshore structure. Spanish mackerel and false albacore were spotted in schools near the inlets and beaches, with false albacore being particularly active from the east side of Cape Lookout down past Atlantic Beach.

### Types and Amounts of Fish Caught
Anglers reported catching a mix of species, including bluefish in the 8-14 pound class, Spanish mackerel, and false albacore. Red drum, both puppy drum and larger bull reds, were also active, especially in the creeks, along ICW docks, and around oyster rocks. Speckled trout were biting well in the backs of creeks and areas off the Newport and North rivers, with live shrimp being a top choice.

### Best Lures and Bait
For red drum, use fresh cut or live menhaden or mullet on Carolina rigs with circle hooks. Artificial lures like Gulp Shrimp on 1/8oz or 1/4oz Fusion Jigheads are also effective. For speckled trout, live shrimp are hard to beat, but topwater baits like MirrOlure Top Dog Jr’s or Top Pup’s can also yield great results. For Spanish mackerel and false albacore, small jigs such as Hogy Epoxy Minnows and Big Nic Spanish Candies are excellent choices.

### Hot Spots
- **Beaufort Inlet and Surrounding Areas**: This is a prime spot for catching red drum, speckled trout, and black drum. Look for areas with structure like oysters or rocks.
- **Cape Lookout and Nearshore Structure**: This area is hot for bluefish, Spanish mackerel, and false albacore. Keep an eye out for surface-feeding frenzies and diving birds.
- **Newport and North Rivers**: These areas are great for speckled trout and red drum, especially in the backs of creeks and around deeper ledges.

With the right gear and knowledge of these hot spots, you’re set for a fantastic day of fishing in the Atlantic Ocean off North Carolina. Good luck and tight lines