wrightsville beach fishing report

Species Availability at Wrightsville Beach

Fishing in Wrightsville Beach is a popular activity due to the variety of fish species available. Depending on the season and weather conditions, anglers can expect to catch a range of fish species including flounder, red drum, black drum, sea trout, bluefish, Spanish mackerel, and king mackerel. In general, the best time to target most species in Wrightsville Beach is from June to September, when the water is warmer and the fish are more active.

Flounder is one of the most sought-after species at Wrightsville Beach, and they are available year-round. However, it is important to note that the size and bag limits for flounder may vary depending on the season, so be sure to check with local fishing laws and regulations before heading out.

Red drum are another popular target species in Wrightsville Beach, and they are typically found inshore in estuaries, creeks, and along the beaches. Their presence is more prominent in the fall seasons when they move from the ocean to the sound for spawning purposes, making it a great time for anglers to try their luck at catching them.

Black drum can also be caught year-round in Wrightsville Beach, but they are more commonly caught in the winter months when they move in large schools to spawn in the area’s inlets. Sea trout can be found in Wrightsville Beach’s shallow waters year-round, but they are more active during the summer months. They feed on shrimp, small crabs, and baitfish making these the ideal bait options.

The king mackerel is considered a prized catch among anglers and Wrightsville Beach provides an excellent opportunity to catch them. During late fall and early winter, schools of king mackerels migrate through Wrightsville Beach on their way south for the winter season.

Overall, whether you’re a beginner or experienced angler, Wrightsville Beach offers a wide variety of species that will keep you engaged and your reels turning.

Inshore Fishing

Inshore fishing along Wrightsville Beach is particularly popular from late spring through the fall season, with anglers targeting species like red drum, speckled trout, and flounder. The best time for inshore fishing usually depends on the tides, with the best results usually coming during high tide when the water is moving. The local waterways are teeming with these species, especially in the Intracoastal Waterway, as well as in the tidal creeks, rivers, and estuaries. When inshore fishing, popular techniques include using live bait, lures, or soft plastics, with the most common rig being a Carolina rig. In short, inshore fishing can provide plenty of action and excitement on your Wrightsville Beach visit.

Offshore Fishing

Offshore fishing is arguably the most popular type of fishing in Wrightsville Beach, thanks to the plethora of species that can be caught. Offshore ventures are usually focused on catching species like king mackerel, mahi-mahi, tuna, and billfish, with the best time coming during the summer months, when the water is warmer and the species are abundant. When offshore fishing, anglers often use trolling techniques, whereby lures or live bait are dragged behind the boat at varying speeds until fish are caught. You can also bottom fish for species like grouper and snapper. Regardless of the technique you choose, our coastal waters are teeming with life and opportunities for a day of offshore fishing excitement.

Surf Fishing

Surf fishing in Wrightsville Beach is a popular activity, thanks to the relatively calm surf that provides a stable platform for anglers. Species like pompano, Spanish mackerel, and bluefish are the most commonly caught species on the beach. Surf fishing can be done throughout the year, although the fall and winter months tend to be most productive. Anglers often use a combination of live bait, cut bait, and lures, with the Carolina rig being the most common setup for this technique that allows maximization of casting and getting the bait to the right depth. With the beautiful beach scene and a high level of excitement involved, Wrightsville Beach is every angler’s dream destination for surf fishing.

Pier Fishing

The Wrightsville Beach Fishing Pier is a landmark location and serves as a platform for recreationally fishing on the Atlantic Ocean. The pier is popular with anglers who are looking to catch bluefish, Spanish mackerel, and king mackerel, but can also be highly productive for flounder, trout, and other inshore species. Pier fishing is productive all year round, but the fall and winter months tend to be especially active. Anglers can use bait fish or lures, and while using bait and waiting patiently to catch a fish, you can relax watching the dolphins jumping on the water or the amazing sunrise or sunset scenery from the open platform. If you love fantastic view and top-class pier fishing action and entertainment, don’t hesitate to try pier fishing in Wrightsville Beach!

Bait and Tackle Considerations

When it comes to fishing, having the right bait and tackle can make all the difference. In Wrightsville Beach, there are a variety of options for both live and artificial bait. Some popular live bait options include shrimp, mullet, and menhaden, while common artificial baits include soft plastics and topwater lures.

When choosing your bait, it is important to consider the species you are targeting. For example, if you are fishing for flounder, live minnows will likely be your best bet. Additionally, the size and color of your bait can also impact your success. Generally, smaller baits work well for smaller fish, while larger baits are better for bigger fish.

In terms of tackle, there are a few key items that every angler should have in their arsenal. These include:

• Rod and reel: Choose a rod and reel that is appropriate for the species you are targeting. For example, if you are fishing for red drum, a heavier rod and reel may be necessary to handle their size and strength.
• Line: The type and weight of line you choose will also depend on the species you are targeting. Lighter lines work well for smaller fish, while heavier lines are better for big game fish.
• Hooks: Make sure you have a variety of hook sizes on hand to choose from based on your bait size and the fish species you are targeting.
• Sinkers and weights: These are important for getting your bait to the appropriate depth in the water column.
• Bobbers: These can be useful for fishing in shallower waters.

It is also important to maintain and properly store your gear. Make sure to clean your rods and reels regularly and store them in a dry, cool place to avoid damage from saltwater and UV exposure.

When it comes to fishing in Wrightsville Beach, timing is also an important factor to consider. Many species have specific feeding patterns that are influenced by the time of day, tide, and season. Researching the best times to fish for your targeted species will increase your chances of success.

Overall, whether you are a seasoned pro or a beginner angler, taking the time to consider your bait and tackle choices can greatly improve your chances of catching fish in Wrightsville Beach.

Recent Catches and Local News

If you’re an avid angler or just love fishing in general, Wrightsville Beach is the perfect destination for you. Home to an abundance of fishing spots, you’ll find everything from inshore and offshore fishing to surf and pier fishing at Wrightsville Beach. Here are some recent catches and local news that you need to know about at Wrightsville Beach.

Recently, there has been an increase in the number of Spanish Mackerel and King Mackerel being caught offshore. These fish are popular among anglers because of their size and fighting ability. The Spanish Mackerel are averaging around 3 pounds, while the King Mackerel are weighing in at an average of 20 pounds. Most of these fish have been caught using live bait, but some anglers have had success using lures as well.

Inshore fishing has also been productive with plenty of Redfish and Flounder being caught. The most productive baits for inshore fishing have been live shrimp and Gulp! shrimp. An important note to keep in mind is that you need to be careful when releasing any fish. You should always handle them with care to avoid injuring them, and if you’re not able to safely remove the hook, cut the line as close to the hook as possible to avoid damaging the fish.

Noteworthy News and Updates

In terms of noteworthy news and updates for the fishing industry in Wrightsville Beach, there have been some new regulations put in place in order to preserve and protect local resources. Effective March 1, 2021, there are new requirements for the use of circle hooks when fishing for certain species such as Striped Bass and Red Drum. The circle hook requirement is intended to help reduce the number of fish that are caught and released with severe injuries or fatalities by reducing hooking mortality.

Another important update to keep in mind is that the state of North Carolina has been conducting a study on Southern Flounder populations in order to determine the best course of action for their management and conservation. During this study, Southern Flounder are being caught and fitted with tracking devices before being released back into the wild. The data collected from these devices will help researchers make more informed decisions regarding the management and conservation of Southern Flounder populations.

Finally, the community at Wrightsville Beach has been actively working towards conservation efforts to preserve marine resources while still allowing for recreational fishing. Organizations like the Wrightsville Beach Fishing Club have been working on initiatives such as beach cleanups and partnering with local organizations to build artificial reefs. By working together, these efforts help to ensure that generations to come can continue to enjoy the beauty and abundance of marine life in Wrightsville Beach.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Wrightsville Beach offers some of the best fishing opportunities in the United States. There are a variety of fish species that can be caught including flounder, red drum, black sea bass, king mackerel and bluefish. To make the most of your fishing adventure, there are a few things to keep in mind.

1. Safety First!

Before setting out to fish, it is important to keep safety in mind. Always check the weather forecast before heading out on the water. It’s a good idea to wear a lifejacket and bring a safety whistle, just in case of an emergency. Be sure to also let someone know where you will be fishing and what time you plan to return.

2. Consider a Guided Tour

If you are fishing in Wrightsville Beach for the first time, or are unfamiliar with the area, consider taking a guided fishing tour. Guided tours are a great way to learn about the local area and gain valuable knowledge about the best places to fish. Tour guides can also provide valuable advice on bait and tackle, as well as regulations and licensing requirements.

3. Know Your Regulations

Before fishing at Wrightsville Beach, it is important to be aware of the regulations in place. This includes knowing which fish species are protected and what size limits are in effect. It is also important to have a valid fishing license before heading out to fish. Licenses can be obtained online or at local fishing stores.

4. Plan Your Fishing Trip

To make the most of your fishing trip, plan ahead. Research the best times of year to catch the fish species you are interested in and consider the tides and weather conditions. Also, be sure to bring the appropriate gear and bait for the fish you are targeting.

5. Respect the Environment

When fishing at Wrightsville Beach, be sure to respect the environment. This includes not littering and properly disposing of any trash you generate. Remember to also release any fish you catch that are not of legal size or are not allowed to be kept. And, always use sustainable fishing practices to preserve the local ecosystem.

Following these tips will ensure you have a successful and enjoyable fishing trip at Wrightsville Beach. Whether you are a beginner or experienced angler, Wrightsville Beach offers something for everyone. So, grab your gear, cast a line, and enjoy the beautiful scenery that Wrightsville Beach has to offer.