As of October 7, 2024, the fishing scene in Wilmington, North Carolina, is looking promising. Here’s what you need to know to make the most of your day on the water.

First, let's talk about the tides. Today, the tidal coefficient is high, with a value of 78 in the morning and increasing to 83 by the end of the day. This means we can expect significant tidal movements, which can be beneficial for fishing. The high tides are expected at 10:37 AM and 10:53 PM, with heights of around 4.4 and 4.6 feet, respectively. Low tides will be at 5:00 AM and 5:07 PM, with heights of about 0.3 feet.

The sun rose over Wilmington at 7:10 AM and will set at 6:48 PM, giving you a full day to enjoy the waters.

Weather conditions are a bit rough, with some wind, but this shouldn’t deter you from a good day of fishing. Yesterday, despite the windy conditions, anglers managed to catch a variety of fish including amberjacks, red snapper, seabass, and even a huge sandbar shark that was released.

Fish activity is strong, especially for redfish, which are starting to move into the creeks, along the Intracoastal Waterway docks, oyster rocks, and areas where bait is plentiful. For redfish, using Carolina rigs with live or fresh cut menhaden or mullet is highly effective. Artificial lures like Gulp Shrimp on 1/8oz or 1/4oz Fusion Jigheads can also produce good results. Top-water lures such as MirrOlure Top Dog Jr’s or Top Pup’s are great for early mornings or late afternoons along marsh grass lines and shallow oyster rocks.

Spanish mackerel and false albacore are also active, particularly around the inlets, beaches, and nearshore artificial reefs. Look for jumping Spanish and diving birds to locate these fish. Small spoons like Big Nic Spanish candies on light spinning tackle or high-speed spinning reels can be very effective.

For those targeting bigger fish, trolling for king mackerel, amberjack, and mahi is a good option. Areas with hard bottom and nearshore structure like wrecks are prime spots. Captain Jordan’s method of trolling from 7 to 12 miles offshore has been successful in finding large predator fish.

Hot spots include the waters around Wrightsville Beach and Masonboro Island, where the inshore waters are rich with redfish, spotted trout, and flounder. Further out, the nearshore ledges and wrecks about 20 miles offshore are great for king mackerel, amberjack, and other larger species.

Remember to bring your polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, and any snacks or drinks you might need. With the right gear and knowledge of the local waters, you’re set for a productive and enjoyable day of fishing in Wilmington.