Wrightsville Beach Fishing Report

Hi Folks,

Everybody knows March went out like a lion and as yet it hasn’t stopped roaring very much. High winds have hampered fishing effort and fish catching. The good news is it is still early and it looks like we are about to have a pretty good stretch of weather.

Now here’s my report:

Inshore: Puppy drum and a few small flounder are biting on the low tide around the inlets, ICW and creeks. I haven’t seen a black drum as yet, but they will surely show up soon….maybe on today’s trip. OOPS. wrote this report this mornng and we caught black drum in the afternoon…see the pic below.

Near Shore: I have been “told” that the bonito are out at the liberty ship, but high wind and seas have thus far prevented me from seeing for myself. This may change as soon as tomorrow or Friday based on the wind predictions.

Offshore: No reports.

Gulfstream: No reports.

Just a word about my new boat: other than a few days of strong puppy drum fishing, the only thing I can make a strong statement about this year is my new fishing platform. My Nautic Star 24 Bay Boat from Chatlee Marine in Sanford is totally awesome. The 101 pound thrust Minn-Kota trolling motor has put me on the fish quietly and the Power Pole from Tex’s Tackle is the greatest invention for inshore boating….possibly ever. Quietly approach the fishing ground and then push a button and you are anchored, securely and quietly. I can honestly say if you are an inshore fisherman, you need/want a Power Pole. You can see how one operates on my boat or drop by Tex’s Tackle for a demo. In addition to these electronic marvels my boat has superior seating for comfort and safety and two large casting platforms, forward and aft.

That’s all for this week. Until next time,

Let’s Go Fishing !!!!

Capt. Rick Bennett

Rod-Man Charters

910-799-6120

Hi everyone,

Spring is just around the corner and the fishing is set up to come with it. Make sure all your gear is in order and ready to go. Here’s what is happening now:

Inshore: Large schools of specks are around but a bit sluggish when it comes to biting. A few more degrees of water temperature and they will be chomping. Red drum are patrolling the beaches and you can sight cast to them on a sunny day when the water is clear.

Nearshore: Some bottom fishing and the ever present dogfish (spiny dogfish shark) are around. False albacore sightings have been reported. Look for the bluefish to move in any day and right behind them will be the bonito.

Offshore: Very good bottom fishing awaits the hardy. Nice grouper and black sea bass are waiting for your bait.

Gulfstream: I have reports of a good blackfin bite happening and some nice wahoo too.

Take a moment to look at my new Nautic Star boat on my home page at www.rodmancharters.com. She’s beauty and rigged to the hilt. My newest sponsors, PowerPole and Raymarine have helped tremendously. I also have a new 101 pound thrust Minn-Kota trolling motor. The new boat is a bit bigger with a great layout.

We have had a great winter doing seminars and boat shows, but it is time to get back on the water. I am looking forward to it and hope to see you there.

Let’s Go Fishing!!!

Capt. Rick Bennett

Rod-Man Charters

910-799-6120