As of October 13, 2024, the fishing scene around Wilmington, North Carolina, is thriving, especially with the cooler weather setting in. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

### Tidal and Weather Conditions
Today, the tidal coefficient is high, with a value of 83, indicating strong tidal currents and significant tidal range. The high tide was at 6:54 AM and 7:20 PM, with low tide at 12:09 PM. The water level is currently falling, with about an hour and nine minutes until the next low tide. Sunrise was at 6:54 AM, and sunset is expected at 7:20 PM.

### Fish Activity
October is a prime month for fishing in Wilmington, with several species actively biting. Yesterday saw a lot of action from redfish, particularly the larger ones, which are starting to show up in the ocean on hard bottoms and around the inlets. Speckled trout are also plentiful, especially in the early mornings and late afternoons. Spanish mackerel and false albacore are abundant near the inlets, beaches, and artificial reefs.

### Types and Amounts of Fish Caught
Anglers reported catching a good number of redfish, with some big ones weighing up to 20 pounds. Speckled trout were also common, with many catches in the 2-4 pound range. Spanish mackerel were plentiful, with some reaching up to 5 pounds.

### Best Lures and Bait
For redfish, using fresh cut or live menhaden or mullet on Carolina rigs with TroKar TK5BS 9/0 Circle hooks is highly effective. Artificial lures like Gulp Shrimp on 1/8oz or 1/4oz Fusion Jigheads also work well. For speckled trout, hard baits like MirrOlures, specifically the 17MR and 22MR series, have been successful. Spanish mackerel can be caught using small spoons like Big Nic Spanish candies on light spinning tackle or by trolling with Blue Water Candy Daisy Chains and Clark spoons.

### Hot Spots
One of the best spots to fish is around the inlets and hard bottoms offshore, where the bigger redfish are congregating. The creeks, ICW docks, and oyster rocks are also excellent for catching redfish and speckled trout. For Spanish mackerel and false albacore, look for areas with jumping fish and diving birds near the beaches and artificial reefs.

With the right tackle and knowledge of the local hot spots, today promises to be an excellent day for fishing in Wilmington, NC. Make sure to bring proper clothing, sunscreen, and polarized sunglasses to maximize your time on the water.