Atlantic Ocean, North Carolina Fishing Report - Daily

Springtime Fishing Frenzy on the North Carolina Coast - Bonito, Trout, and Offshore Action Abound


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Today is April 4th, 2025, and fishing along the North Carolina coast and Atlantic waters is shaping up to be incredible for anglers. The mix of springtime activity and favorable conditions is creating a recipe for success on the water.

The sunrise in Duck, North Carolina, came at 6:44 AM and will set at 7:27 PM, giving anglers plenty of daylight to fish. The tidal schedule today featured an early high tide at 1:20 PM and a low tide set for 7:24 PM in this area. With a tidal coefficient of 40, the changes in tide are moderate, so expect steady but smaller currents, ideal for nearshore and inshore fishing.

The weather today is mild, with calm winds and clear skies—not much to hinder casting or boating. Nearshore, water temperatures are warming, which has energized fish activity. Offshore, the Gulf Stream bite is exceptional with tuna and wahoo being major targets. Inside the inshore waters, red drum, speckled trout, and flounder are being landed in significant numbers, as reported frequently in the past week.

Reports from Wilmington indicate nearshore fishing for Atlantic bonito is fantastic. Schools of these speedsters are feeding aggressively, making this a prime time to hook into some. Speckled trout bites have also been explosive, with catches averaging 2-3 pounds, and Beaufort anglers recently reporting landing 35-40 trout in a single trip, all between 21-24 inches.

For bait and lures, versatility is key. Nearshore and inshore, soft plastic paddletails, gold spoons, and jerkbaits are proven performers for species like trout, redfish, and flounder. In offshore and pelagic zones, live bait such as ballyhoo or mullet remains unbeatable for targeting wahoo, tuna, and other predators. For those fishing along the surf, live or cut bait like shrimp and sand fleas are perfect for whiting and pompano.

For hot spots, try the nearshore waters off Wilmington for bonito and Spanish mackerel action. Emerald Isle and Morehead City are prime areas to target speckled trout and red drum. For offshore enthusiasts, the Gulf Stream is bustling with high-energy wahoo and tuna action.

Don’t forget to check your gear, bring a variety of lures, and keep an eye on the tides. It’s a phenomenal day to hit the waters of North Carolina. Tight lines!
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Atlantic Ocean, North Carolina Fishing Report - DailyBy Quiet. Please