Fall Suf Fishing

Fall is now in the air and this is when the surf fishing on Hatteras Island
really heats up. Fall is a great time to visit Hatteras Island because
there are fewer people, the weather is usually cooler, and most of the
beaches are open for driving. This the time the Red Drum are making
their appearance and making countless fishermen happier than a kid on
Christmas morning. There is no prettier sight than the Point at Buxton
filled with Drum fishermen casting and catching drum. If you have never
witnessed these sportsmen casting their lines, making line adjustments,
keeping their rigs from becoming tangled, hooking and catching a
prized Red Drum, and then releasing the Drum to catch again. You need
to come witness this fishing wonder firsthand and watch the seasoned
fisherman catch fish like a well oiled machine.
If this type of fishing intimidates you, don’t worry. You can travel north
or south of The Point and still be in the fish. Generally during the fall,
the ocean is filled with hungry Speckled Trout, Puppy Drum, Bluefish,
Sea Mullet, Spot, Croaker and maybe an occasional False Albacore.
Most of these fish can be caught on bottom rigs baited with cut bait. You
can also hook them casting jigs, spoons, and plugs. Of course always
be on the lookout for the big Red Drum because many an angler targeting
smaller fish on bottom rigs has hooked Red Drum and had the fight
of their life on light tackle.
If you are considering heading to Hatteras Island and surf fishing, here
are some things that you will need to know in advance. To drive on the
beach, you will need an ORV Permit issued by the National Park Service.
These permits are available from the NPS Office or you can go online
and purchase one. While on the beach, you will need the following
required equipment for off road driving: a shovel, a jack, a jack board,
and a low pressure tire gauge. Some other items such as a tow strap,
fire extinguisher, and a flashlight are also recommended. Also make
sure you have a current NC Fishing license which can be purchased
online on the NCWRC website.
When you are packing your 4x4 truck or SUV, make sure you have
everything that you will need so you won’t have to leave the beach.
Making a checklist will ensure this. Before you hit the beach, make
sure you stop at one of the local tackle shops and load up on fresh bait,
lead weights, lures, line or anything else you may need. These tackle
shops are not only filled with the correct equipment you will need, they
also have information that they will share if you ask. The most important
thing to remember before you hit the sand--air those tires down!!