As the spring season unfolds, the waters of Virginia’s coast have been picking up with activity despite a recent drop in temperature.
Last week, Rudee Inlet’s water temperature held steady at a brisk 56 degrees, but that didn’t prevent anglers from picking up some big Bluefish (some tipping the scales at an impressive 10 pounds), along with a few large Speckled Trout, Puppy Drum, and some keeper-size Flounder.
The shallows inside Lynnhaven Inlet continue to be a hotspot for Trout and Puppy Drum, with anglers now also reeling in keeper-size Flounder.
The Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel (CBBT) and the shoals near Fisherman’s Island will become the focal point for those targeting large Drum. Weather conditions have not been conducive for hunting Red Drum schools on the surface due to chop and clouds. Black Drum catches last week saw a slowdown, attributed to less-than-ideal weather conditions. Hopefully that changes this week.
Over on Virginia’s Eastern Shore around Chincoteague and Wachapreague, doormat Flounders have been making a splash. Surf anglers there are also having success with Black Drum, Bluefish, and Stripers, adding to the excitement.
Tautog fishing remains rewarding on the bridge tunnel islands and coastal wrecks. With the season drawing to a close on May 16, anglers have a narrow window to pursue these great tasting fish.
Dr. Neill
Not to be outdone, the Peninsula is holding its own with anglers catching Speckled Trout and Puppy Drum in the shallow waters of Mobjack Bay and the Piankatank River. Boat docks and piers are proving to be fruitful spots for these catches.
OBX, North Caolina
Sea Breeze Charters
While the weather might have dampened the spirits of beachgoers, the fishing community found a silver lining.
At the Point in Buxton the Red Drum are biting, providing anglers with steady action. These fish are a prized surf catch for their fight and size.
Blowtoads, Trout, and Bluefish are being reeled in on all the beaches.
The Sound is producing sizable Bluefish, some Trout, and Puppy Drum.
The offshore boats, that braved choppy seas, have been rewarded with bountiful catches of Yellowfins (OI) and Dolphins (Hatteras).
As we move deeper into spring, the promise of warmer waters and the potential for even more impressive catches looms on the horizon. So, grab your gear, check the tides, and head out for what could be the next big catch of the season. Happy fishing!
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