Hi Folks,
Has it been a cold winter or what??? The good news is we are starting to get some stabilization in temperatures and the water IS warming. Some fish are biting now and in just days more will show up strong. That’s the way spring is….a day to day change and usually for the better.
Now here’s my report:
Inshore:
Inshore fishing consists of some redfish on the smaller side. They are being caught up the creeks and in the ocean along the beach. Some specks are around as are black drum. The water id still cool, in the mid-50’s, so for specks move your lure SLOWLY. Blacks will bite fresh shrimp chunks.
Near Shore:
Around the near shore AR’s, sea bass and grunts are biting squid and shrimp. Spiny dogfish will be there as well. Expect the bluefish to show up very soon and the Atlantic bonito will not be far behind.
Offshore:
Bottom fish is the name of the game. From 20 to 40 miles, when the weather is right, bottom fishing has been very good. March came in like a lion, so let’s look for it to go out like a lamb!
Gulfstream:
When the boats have been able to get out good catches of wahoo, tuna (yellowfin and blackfin, and mahi have been the reward for going.
River:
The Virginia mullet have shown up and are biting fresh shrimp fished on bottom rigs. In just a couple more degrees of water warmth, the trout should start biting.
It’s been a good winter. We have attended many trade/boat/fishing shows and done a number of fishing schools and seminars. I just got back from the NC Sportsman fishing school and it was a fine school as always. Next up is the WAIT (Women Anglers in Training) school May 2 in Oak Island. This is my first year participating in this event and I am looking forward to it. The Rod-Man in the Water Fishing School June 5-7 is being received well. With a day of classroom and a day of fishing the school is soon to be a sell out. Seating is limited to just 25, so if you have put off your registration, please don’t wait any longer. I had to turn away some people at the February school and hope that is not the case in June, but there is just no way to expand the class. Sign up now!
Hope everyone has their gear ready and anxious to get on the water. Make sure EVERYTHING is working and be safe. Until next time…..
LET’S GO FISHING!!!
Capt. Rick Bennett
Rod-Man Charters
910-799-6120