Fall Fishing Getting into Full Swing Around Wrightsville Beach
Capt. Richard Bennett
September 23, 2009
Wrightsville Beach - Saltwater Fishing Report
Hi Folks,
This week's picture is not representative of the fish we have caught, but of the great time I had in Chicago last week celebrating my 40th anniversary...at Wrigley Field. Now on to some fishing news: we have had a persistent NE wind for several weeks now, at least it seems that way, and according to NOAH, this has caused the Gulfstream current to slow down. The result for us is abnormally high tides as the Gulfstream aides in"sucking" the water out when the tide falls and when the current slows, that effect is reduced. At any rate fishing has been good inshore, but you have to "play" the tides. When wind and waves permit the spanish mackerel bite has been great and their size BIG!
Now here's my report:
Inshore: Reds and flounder are biting in the creeks and the waterway. The best bite is on low water either falling or rising and the best bait is finger mullet. Flounder are also biting in the inlets and the cut. River fishing has produced some nice catches of flounder, reds and trout. I want to emphasize the importance of the tide. Given the information above, lower water is producing better.
Near Shore: When seas are permitting boats to get out, the spanish mackerel bite has been awesome with some really nice fish biting. Gray trout are showing up at the near shore artificial and natural reefs. Some nice king mackerel are making their way in close, following the huge schools of bait.
Offshore: More king mackerel action in the 5 to 25 mile areas and we are getting some reports of sailfish action in the 15-18 mile range. A little late for this fish, but hey, we won't complain. Check out the new circle hook rig for ballyhoo at http://barefootfishing.net/. Some small mahi are still around in the same areas.
Gulfstream: No reports.
Upcoming: Fall fishing is getting into full swing with only better fishing ahead. Look for strong bites inshore from trout, reds and flounder and near shore from spanish and gray trout and from near shore to offshore big king mackerel. Coming soon more information on next year's fishing school and boat show schedule. Be sure to check out the photos on this week's fishing repot and the photo gallery on my site at www.rodmancharters.com.
Until next time......
LET'S GO FISHING!!!
Capt. Rick Bennett
Rod-Man Charters
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