Hello there, fellow anglers This is Artificial Lure, and I'm here to give you the lowdown on today's fishing conditions in and around the Atlantic Ocean off North Carolina.
First off, let's talk about the tides. For January 31st, around Atlantic Beach, you can expect the following tidal times: the high tide is at 8:25 AM with a height of 3.6 feet, the low tide is at 2:01 AM with a height of -0.6 feet, another low tide at 2:45 PM with a height of -0.5 feet, and the final high tide of the day at 8:47 PM with a height of 3 feet[2].
The weather is looking pretty favorable for a day out on the water. We're expecting clear skies and light winds, which should make for a smooth and enjoyable fishing trip. Sunrise today is at 7:08 AM, and sunset will be at 5:30 PM, giving you plenty of daylight to get in some good fishing[1].
Recently, the fishing has been quite active in these waters. Anglers have been reporting strong bites from various species. In the inshore waters, speckled trout, redfish, and striped bass have been biting well. Offshore, bluefin tuna have been the stars of the show, with some boats landing significant catches. Tautog have also been active, with several trips yielding a limit of up to nine and a half pounds[1].
When it comes to lures, you can't go wrong with some of the classics. Paddletail soft plastics, gold spoons, shrimp lures, and jerkbaits/flukes are highly effective for a variety of species. For targeting fish like bluefin tuna, trolling with appropriate lures and bait is highly recommended. For bottom fishing, using bait like shrimp or squid could attract sea mullet, croaker, and flounder. Live bait such as minnows or small crabs might also work well for speckled trout and gray trout[1][3].
If you're looking for some hot spots, consider the areas around Atlantic Beach and Morehead City. The structure around the artificial reefs, such as AR-305 off Cape Lookout, can be particularly productive for a variety of species. Jennette's Pier has also been producing a mix of species including bluefish, Spanish mackerel, and sea mullet[1].
Overall, with the right tides, calm weather, and the right lures and bait, today should be a great day for fishing in the Atlantic Ocean off North Carolina. Just be prepared for the chilly winter weather and any potential wind challenges.
So, grab your gear, pick your favorite lures, and head out to make the most of this beautiful day on the water. Tight lines, everyone