It was bound to happen sooner or later: the arrival of some cold weather. Water temperatures are finally dipping down into the 50s with brisk winds from the north, which means the fishing comes to a rapid but expected slowdown. Really, how long could we expect the fishing and catching in 70-degree weather to continue, basically in the middle of winter?
For the most part anglers can’t complain, as no, the fishing didn’t completely come to a stop as there’s still some decent fishing being found by the inshore and surf fishing guys willing to put the time in. Unfortunately, offshore fishing has been temporarily shut off mainly because of the winds and seas, but opportunities will arise here and there, so being ready will be key. And when you look at the forecast for the coming week, although chilly, it’s not that bad for the middle of January.
Inshore, there have still been plenty of reports of anglers finding some keeper speckled trout mixed in with some smaller ones. The jetties had been a good location but with the rough sea conditions it would be tough fishing, not to mention dangerous. Carolina Beach Inlet, Masons Inlet and Rich’s Inlet are all producing some fish as well. With the water temperature finally dipping into the upper 50s, slowing down your bait presentation will improve you chances of tempting a nearby fish.
Surf anglers have also been having some luck with speckled trout in the deeper holes and sloughs when conditions allow. Bait fishermen using shrimp are having luck with Virginia mullet and will continue to find them eager to bite as long as the water temperature stays above the 55-degree mark. As long as there aren’t any major surprise winter storms, anglers should be able to catch mullet for at least another week or two, maybe longer. Also biting fairly well are blowfish, which quite a few fishermen target this time of year. Those fishing the piers have also been having some luck with both mullet and puffers.
As mentioned last week, this is normally the time of year for anglers to hone their fishing skills, learn about new tackle, mingle with fellow anglers and spend some time maybe even learning a thing or two about fishing.
First up on Jan. 30 is the Oak Island Saltwater Fishing School held at the Oak Island Recreation Center. Unfortunately, this fishing school has already sold out, no doubt an indication as to how well run it is. Remember this for next year if you didn’t already get your ticket for this event. Next up is the Fisherman’s Post Hands-On Full Day Saltwater Fishing School in Wilmington on Feb. 6 with a half-day school held Feb. 7. We’ll have more information on these events next week, but if you want more information or want to register before they too sell out, visit their website at
www.fishermanspost.com
