A good stretch of warm weather has finally arrived for our area, contributing to an increase of fishing and catching, as you’ll see in this week’s report.
Unfortunately, the past few days have seen rain and thunderstorms, keeping most anglers stuck inside. The upcoming weekend, although a bit cooler than the past week or so, is shaping up to be a good one with sunny skies and light winds being forecast.
Water temperatures have reached into the mid-60s and with the arrival of May, the fishing should only continue to get better in the coming weeks.
We’ll start with the near shore fishing because that’s where the majority of the fishing has shown a big increase in action.
First, the Atlantic bonito have arrived in good numbers and are being caught around the Liberty Ship, John’s Creek and areas in between.
On the calmer days, anglers are able to locate the schools by looking for working birds and busting fish. Once on target, anglers are sight casting to these fish with small spoons and Got-Cha Plugs. Personally, I like the small spoon tactic as it allows for a more accurate cast and greater distance, meaning you can stay away from the school far enough that they don’t even know your there.
Another way of targeting the bonito is by trolling using small spoons such as Clark Spoons. This allows anglers to cover a lot of water when the fish can’t be located through other means. It also allows you the opportunity to catch other species such as bluefish and Spanish mackerel. Remember, whether sight casting or trolling, do not run through the school of fish. It will not only benefit you but will also benefit others who might be fishing the area close by.
Speaking of Spanish mackerel, they have arrived. Many anglers during the weekends found the Spanish biting good in the same areas as the bonito and also along the beaches and just off the inlets. While most of these fish are averaging between 1-2 pounds, several anglers found some hefty fish weighing up to 7 pounds. Most of these fish came from around Sheepshead Rock but a few were also reported being caught near Wrightsville Beach.
Pier anglers have also gotten into the action from Spanish mackerel with a few smaller fish being reported. The numbers of fish should improve dramatically as the season continues. Anglers fishing the pier also reported good bluefish action on Gotcha Plugs. A few small flounder and some nice virginia mullet have also been caught.
In the Gulf Stream the fishing has been good with catches of wahoo, blackfin tuna and dolphin being reported. Areas around the Same Ole Hole and the Steeples have all been producing. Those making the trek to do some jigging have also been catching blackfins and amberjack.
Bottom fishing around 30 miles has been good for triggerfish, snapper and large black sea bass. There have been some nice-sized groupers also reported being caught but unfortunately those fish have to be thrown back due to the season being closed. The good news is the season opens on May 1, allowing anglers to keep their catch if within size limits.
