Kitty Hawk

Seasons of Change

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Fishing on the Outer Banks during the Fall transition can produce catches of Puppy Drum, Big Drum, Bluefish, Speckled Sea Trout, Stripers and dozens of other species.

September typically means two things to me – the start of a new school year and Fall fishing. Classrooms and school buses usually get crowded and popular fishing spots become deserted. But just like school, there are many lessons to be learned when fishing between the Summer and then into the Fall on the Outer Banks.

Summer fishing is a lot like swinging in a hammock. You find a seat in the shade on the pier or maybe under an umbrella on the surf.  You cast your bottom rig out and wait for something to come by and take it. Summer fishing is usually very slow and kind of easy going. There are always plenty of small bottom fish to keep you busy. So as you can see those lazy summer fishing days are a lot like swinging on that hammock. Not real exciting nor is there a lot of interruptions but still a lot of fun.

Fall fishing on the other hand is where those summer lessons are put to the test. The Fall species that move into our waters can be very large and aggressive and fast.  These fish are aware that their main food source will be scarce in the coming months so they must feed aggressively.

The Florida pompano and Spanish Mackerel will be leaving for warmer waters soon and two of our most popular fall visitors will be taking their place. The Norfolk Spot and Atlantic croaker are a huge draw on the local piers in the fall. The Norfolk “Spot Run” occurs in mid to late September. During these runs, it is easy to fill a cooler in a matter of hours.

A short time later we see an increased bite of our favorite native sea mullet, speckled sea trout, mixed puppy drum and bluefish as well as the prized big red drum and many other traditional species such as flounder, sheepshead, sharks and rays and many others.

When fishing in the Summer we typically use light to medium gear. In the Fall season with the onslaught of huge and aggressive species moving in, we need to consider the use of stiffer and heavier gear. Larger rods, heavier reels, more stout lines and of course stronger rigs.

We also need to think about how we present our baits. Fresh shrimp, finger mullet or cut baits are your best bets this time of year. Some anglers will stay with the very popular fishbites artificial bait which have been very productive, sand fleas, and some even go with artificials and metals. But the key is the action and presentation of your retrieves. This action must match the feeding preferences of your target.

Weather in the fall is very unpredictable. Outer Banks environment can be brutal on anglers and gear. Preparation is key to a successful outing.

Now is the time to prepare. Our local tackle shops, piers, many of our media outlets and of course my website can help make this year’s fishing experience one to remember.

Fishing in the Fall on one of the local piers, bridges or the surf can be one of most enjoyable times. Many anglers travel hundreds of miles just to fish this time of year in our waters. Will you be joining us this year?

Captain’s Tip – always keep a light tackle rod set with you at all times in the fall. Hot action with a light rod and big fish are what memories are made of.

Watch for more fall fishing, gear and techniques.

Until next time – Tightlines – Capt. Tony

Precautions – Angling in Hot Weather

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It seems hot summer temperatures have arrived earlier this year and with the increased humidity it can limit the anglers outdoor activities. So this is a good time to talk about fishing in hot weather a little earlier this year.

Fishing during the summer months can be challenging.

The air temperatures can easily reach well into the nineties with “feel like” air temps being well over a hundred. Combine these high temperatures with the occasional storms and increased humidity and you have conditions that can test even the most seasoned anglers.

But the summer season also brings in the most variety of marine species. So regardless of the conditions, many anglers will brave these high temperatures to test their luck on a local pier or the surf.

There are several choices anglers can make to stay healthy on the water and still enjoy fishing.

Sun glasses are mandatory. The reflection off the water can damage your eyes quickly.  Sunglasses should provide UV protection and block 99 to 100 percent of both UVA and UVB rays. Also, opt for wraparound sunglasses or close-fitting sunglasses with wide lenses that protect your eyes from every angle. There are many sunglasses to choose from but don’t skimp on these.

The next item is a hat. Use only a hat type that covers both your face and neck. Baseball caps are commonplace on the water but they typically only provide partial protection. Be smart and get a good full brim hat.

Also, many anglers are beginning to utilize buffs and gloves. A buff is a lightweight tube fabric used to cover your neck, face and ears. Gloves can protect your hands from not only sun but sharp edges. Some gloves allow your fingers to be exposed for handling gear. Only use types that protect you from the sun’s harmful rays.

Many tackle and specialty shops sell cooling towels. These towels can be soaked in water and wrapped around your neck and head. They are definitely worth the price but remember these towels do not have a UV rating so extra precautions are needed when using these towels.

The final component is clothing. Anglers should cover as much skin as possible by wearing long sleeves and long pants. I know, these can make you hotter but there are many styles that are “cool-infused”. If you get hot, roll your sleeves. Remember to always look for UPF 40 and UV protection.

OK so you don’t care for long clothes or cover up, then use at least a 50 SPF or higher sun screen lotion. They even make a spray – so there is never an excuse. Apply liberally before you head out and every hour. Don’t worry, you will get plenty of sun through this protection.

Finally, stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water and non-alcoholic beverages. Water or other sports drinks can help keep you cool. Alcohol can rob your system of valuable fluids. So save that for after you come out of the sun.

Remember smart anglers use some type of sun protection every time they are out fishing. Overexposure to the sun can ruin your day and your future.

Until next time – Tightlines – Capt. Tony

The New Surf Angler

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Summer is here and what better way to start a vacation than by learning to surf fish on the Outer Banks. We have talked about this topic many time and since the weather is beautiful and the fish are biting, what better way to start a new activity.

Fishing on the surf is the easiest to learn and enjoyable for the entire family. And now that you are here, why not give it a try. And it can be fun for the entire family.

All you need is a simple saltwater rod, reel, fishing license and fresh bait.

The first thing you want to do is research the regulations. Make sure you know the limits of any species you catch. Also, you may need a license to fish on our beaches. Licenses and rules can be obtained at any local tackle shop. Tackle shops are the newest (and experienced) angler’s best friend.

Next is selecting the spot on the beach. I always check with other local anglers or tackle shops for this information. They can usually point you in the right direction. It’s important to learn to also read the beach. It takes a little time, but we’ll worth the effort. But basically, most spots on our beach will hold fish.

Like any sport, you will need specific gear. These items will include a good medium seven foot rod and reel set up, a bottom rig, package of hooks, several different size sinkers and bait. If you don’t have your own rod and reel set up, a complete package can be purchased any tackle supply shop.

If you purchase a rod and reel from a tackle shop it will already be rigged with a line. Once ready to fish, you will attach the bottom rig to the line. You can either tie the rig directly to the line or use a snap swivel to the line first and then hook the rig to this connector. A snap swivel allows for a quick change over if you need to replace the bottom rig.

Next you want to install the hooks. Number four or number six size “J” hooks should work fine. I slide the loop end of the hook line over the bottom rig loop and slip the hook through the bottom rig loop. This creates a strong connection. A sinker is attached to the bottom of the rig. I carry different size sinkers and attach the lightest one that will allow me to hold the bottom.

Bait is the most important component. I use fresh shrimp or fish bites. Do not peel the shrimp; just place a small piece on each hook. Sometimes, I insert a small quarter inch piece of a fish bite or fish gum over the hook after the shrimp. This keeps the shrimp on the hook and prevents smaller fish from stealing the bait before a larger fish eats it. Remember – the fresher the bait – the better the chance for success.

Most bottom fish can be found within fifteen feet of our shore line. So cast just over the waves. Let the bait sit on the bottom and wait for the bite. The bite feels like a tap tap tap. When you feel the bite, just raise your rod tip and reel in. If your line moves on the bottom, change to the next size up sinker.

It’s that simple.

So the next time you have a little free time and want to learn a new hobby – take up fishing on our beach. It’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors and our beautiful beaches.

One final tip – release all fish carefully that you are not going to keep the fish so it can be caught again

Until next time – Tightlines – Capt. Tony