outer banks fishing

Let’s Talk Bait

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One of the most frequently asked questions that anglers on the Outer Banks ask is, “Which bait works best?”

It is a question with many answers, but the simple answer is, it depends.

Just like the number of available fish species, there are dozens of types of bait that work in our saltwater environment.

To be sure, some baits work better on specific species, while others are good for general use.

Let’s focus on three basic types of baits. There is live bait, fresh or natural bait and artificial or synthetic baits. Each type has its place in your arsenal.

In my opinion, using live bait is the most productive. Most saltwater species are more likely to choose a live bait over any other. Examples of these baits are shrimp, sand fleas, crabs, small bait fish, clams, finger mullet, menhaden and many types of worms. The reason that live bait is best is because it causes vibration, special sounds and a scent that attracts just about any predator.

Live baits are typically the most productive and should be the preferred bait of choice. These baits are typically readily available in our waters and are easy for most anglers to catch.

My next choice would be fresh or natural dead baits, which are easily obtained and work very well. Examples of these baits are bagged shrimp, squid and cut mullet. Some natural baits will be found in individual packages or larger frozen packs. The angler should prefer the freshest bait possible and try to avoid using baits that were previously frozen and then allowed to thaw. Keep in mind that local tackle shops go out of their way to source the freshest bait daily.

These baits typically work well because they appear as an easy food source. Occasionally, the angler’s presentation can increase the attractiveness of the bait.

Fresh baits should be a single-use bait because these baits lose scent and freshness over one day. So these should be discarded after one day and bought fresh the next day for best results.

Finally, another option is artificial baits, which are proven favorites for local fishermen.These baits include synthetic materials such as “Fish Bites,” soft plastic worms or fake fish-like lures.These baits and lures are also very productive in most settings.The advantage of artificial baits is their longevity and staying power. When using artificial soft plastics, always select the pre-scented types when available.

Most saltwater species have sharp teeth or a mechanism to separate the baits from the hooks, and using a tough soft plastic or synthetic material sometimes makes it difficult for the fish to steal the bait before being hooked.

A good rule to follow is to always check with the local tackle shop professionals before heading out. They can help determine which bait will provide you with the best opportunity for success. Local knowledge is a valuable tool and doesn’t cost a thing.

Also, don’t be afraid to change to a fresher piece of bait frequently or even a different bait all together.

So we go back to the question of “which bait works best?”

The answer is that all of them work well under certain conditions. And, as the angler, your ability to find the correct bait when targeting a certain species can increase your success rate.

Final tip – there is an old saying for maximum success. Always try to use a bait that will “match the hatch” and mimic the taste and smell of a predator’s juvenile food source.

Until next time – Tightlines – Capt Tony

First Time Surf Fishing

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Surf fishing is one of the most popular hobbies for vacationers when they visit the Outer Banks. And with just a little effort, the new angler can have fun and catch dinner. Let’s talk about how to get started and be successful.

First, anglers who plan to fish on the surf will need a saltwater fishing license. Short or long term licenses are available either online or at a local tackle shop. And while you are at the tackle shop, new anglers should pick up a copy of the rules and bag and creel limits. It’s also available on the NCDMF website at https://www.deq.nc.gov/about/divisions/marine-fisheries

Once at the tackle shop, the crew can advise you of the best gear, baits, locations, tides and the best times of the day. Of course, most anglers try to fish when and where they can. But new anglers should focus on fishing in the mornings and evenings when there are less swimmers. And more importantly, fish tend to feed more aggressively during those hours.

Now armed with the correct gear and bait, the next thing is finding the best place on the surf. During your visit at the tackle shop, hopefully they provided a little advice on finding fish and reading the water. And as a newcomer, it can be a little confusing and occasionally frustrating because all the water appears the same. But with a steady eye, the new angler will be able to see slight changes in the waves, current and colors.

When reading the water, look for something different. A slough runs parallel with the surf. Moving water creates holes, points and rip currents. Another important key is look at the waves as they break on the shore. Look for piles of gravel, shells and small rocks. This indicates a steep drop off. Fish feed in these areas.

So here are three keys that each new angler should focus on for a successful outing.

First, fresh bait catches more fish. Use shrimp, small mole crabs or artificial fish bites. Blood worms are great but expensive, so stick with more practical baits. Remember,fresh bait spoils quickly so keep your bait out of the sun and preferably in a cooler. This is where fish bites work best, no refrigeration needed.

Here’s a great tip: ninety percent of the fish you catch on the surf will be within fifteen yards from your feet. So keep your casts close in. Allow your bait to move in the current. Check your bait frequently.

And finally move. If you aren’t feeling bites within several minutes, move parallel along the beach. The surf bottom has many different configurations. Fish will seek food or protection in an area they find food and safety. Easy to find deep areas and funny wave configurations if you look closely.

If you are fortunate to hook up. The process of retrieving your  fish should be methodical. When you feel a nibble or bite, and the fish begins to take your line, just raise your rod tip and reel slowly. Never jerk the rod. Jerking pulls the bait and hook away from the fish. Unfortunately many new anglers get excited with a bite and will miss the catch by jerking too fast. So just raise the rod slowly and reel in.

It’s important to use the waves to help bring the fish to the beach. The fish will be trying to escape by swimming straight away. Keeping the line tight, reel slowly when the fish isn’t running and taking line. Steady pressure keeps the fish hooked.

The incoming waves will help with your retrieve and push the fish up on the surf. Be patient and use the waves to your advantage.

Once you have brought the fish ashore, remove the hook carefully, take a picture quickly and if you aren’t planning to harvest it, release it back into the water.

We will be discussing your best bet and gear types in a future article. Check back soon.

So, there you go. See how easy that was.

Until next time – Tightlines – Capt. Tony

Let’s Go Pier Fishing

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Don’t have a boat and you want to fish. No problem. Fishing on one of the outer banks pier can be an enjoyable outing for the entire family. It’s one of those activities where you can just grab a rod, little bait and catch fish. The best part is you don’t need any instruction but with a little guidance, the family can be out catching not only dinner but memories that last a lifetime.

First, most ocean fishing piers offer a blanket license which means you don’t need a license to fish. The daily fee allows the angler to fish all day. And if they need to leave for a period and return, that is permissible under the daily fee. The only exception is on the Bonner Bridge Pier where anglers need a saltwater license to fish there.

Next, let’s look at gear. Most fish caught on piers are going to be small so there is no need to bring a lot of fishing gear or equipment. Anglers should use a simple seven or eight medium rod and reel that is designed for use in a saltwater environment. If you don’t have a rod, everything can be rented at the pier house for a nominal fee.

Next is rigging. This is just as important as the rod and reel. Perfect starter kit is a pre-made two hook bottom rig with small “J” or circle hooks and a pyramid sinker. The hook size should not exceed the types of bait. And the sinker should allow the bait and rig to just hold the bottom.

The most popular bait for pier fishing is fresh shrimp. Keep shrimp out of the sun and in a cooler if possible. Fresh bait catches more fish. Other popular baits are artificial fish bites, worms and cut bait. Either works fine but as a new pier angler, shrimp is best.

Picking the best spot on the pier is key. Most piers are long and lined with anglers. It is probably best to start on one side of the pier and fish both sides until you begin feeling lots of hits or bites. The key to successful pier fishing is to move around.

And finally, it’s time to fish. You now need to bait your hooks. Use only a small piece of shrimp,  just enough to cover the hook.

Once your bait and rig is ready, just drop your bait straight down over the railing into the water. Make sure your sinker is on the bottom and wait for the tap. Most small fish will tap your bait to loosen it from your hook before taking it. When you feel the tap followed by a tug, raise the rod and reel it in. That’s it, you are fishing.

Another very important part of any type of fishing is releasing all unwanted fish. If you are not keeping your catch, it should be released back in the water as quickly as possible.

And finally, angler safety is also important. Always wear a hat and dress for the conditions. Sunscreen should be applied to all exposed places year round. Bring plenty of drinks and snacks will help make for an enjoyable day.

So now that you are ready, let’s go fishing on a local pier!!

Until next time – Tightlines – Capt Tony