The Outer Banks anglers are beginning to see the end of our seasonal fishery. Cold fronts seem to arrive more frequently and with these systems both colder air and water temperatures are steadily creeping into our region.

The northern surf fishery over the past month has been outstanding. In November the perennial Big Drum invaded the surf and piers in huge numbers producing many citations. Along with these big fish, we continued to see citations for sea mullet. Black Drum, bluefish and sea speckled trout were also represented in the multiple catches.

But these cold fronts have all but shut down this fishery on the northern beaches. This resulted in a movement of these fish southward to warmer water temperatures on Hatteras Island.

These southern beaches have been very productive all year and this influx of these species will continue to add to the catches.

The most popular and easiest way to reach these fish now is through the beaches of Avon, Buxton and Frisco. Also, the Cape Hatteras “Point” has been and continues to be the place to be producing dozens of citations.

The Outer Banks fishery is not over, it just moved several miles south.

But soon this fishery will end for the year. Cold weather is just around the bend. So if you have the dream to catch that last trophy drum or that Bluefish or speckled trout for the grill, you need to make your move now.

Local tackle shops can guide you on the best gear and bait.

Until next time – Tightlines. Capt. Tony