The fishing has been really exciting over the past couple of weeks! The lower Cape Fear and waterways have been filling up with baitfish and shrimp. The predator fish are taking full advantage of the abundant prey. Most of the summer time fish that we target are here now and that makes for some great mixed bag days. The water temps are really good right now, the water is warm enough to get the fish’s metabolism kicked into high gear but still cool enough to hold enough oxygen to provide plenty of energy for some blistering runs and long exciting battles. The spring winds will calm soon and the sight fishing will be getting really good.
Redfish are still consistent and the water temps have them really fired up. We have had some good days around Topsail island, with some big schools of Redfish and a handful of Flounder. The Reds have been very willing to do their part and attack a topwater bait however getting them to the boat is always challenging. Some larger Flounder in the 6+ pound range are in the river now and they are feeding on the Menhaden that have moved in. The Speckled Trout fishing is starting to get better and a trip yesterday produced 2 in the 3.5 to 4.5 pound range along with some topwater Bluefish and 14 Redfish. Spanish are thick off of the beach and trolling or casting jigs has been very effective. Flounder and Grey Trout are also being caught off of the beach on the near shore wrecks.
I am extremely excited about the coming up fishing season and so far things are starting out really well! I hope to get the chance to fish with many of you and that you get the chance to enjoy all the great fishing and nature that the Cape Fear coast has to offer.
Capt. Mark