NCDMF announces 2023 flounder season dates - The N.C. Division of Marine Fisheries today announced that the 2023 recreational flounder season will open at 12:01 a.m. Sept. 15 and close at 11:59 p.m. Sept. 29.

This article was taken from the Carolina Sportsman Magazine

The season will open with the following provisions for both the recreational hook-and-line and gig fisheries:

A one-fish per person per day creel limit.

A 15-inch total length minimum size limit (from the tip of the snout to the tip of the tail).

Harvest of flounder with a Recreational Commercial Gear License will be prohibited.

The season and possession limits are set annually to keep the fishery within the recreational quota approved by the Marine Fisheries Commission in the N.C. Southern Flounder Fishery Management Plan Amendment 3. The plan also specifies any overage to the recreational Total Allowable Catch (TAC) requires a pound for pound payback subtracted from the following year’s allowable harvest. In 2022, the recreational TAC of 170,655 pounds was exceeded by 56,340 pounds.

For 2023, this means the TAC for the recreational season will be 114,315 pounds.

Discard mortality is accounted for in the estimates of TAC. During 2022, dead discards both during and outside of the southern flounder recreational season contributed significantly to the total removals from this fishery and the overage in the TAC. For this reason, the Division discourages anglers from targeting flounder for catch-and-release after they have caught their one-fish limit or when the season is closed. During the open season, the Division also discourages anglers from high grading (retaining a fish until a larger one is caught) as this increases post-release mortality leading to additional dead discards.

State certifies Blueline Tilefish as new state record by: NC Marine Fisheries Posted: Jun 26, 2023 / 01:59 PM EDT Updated: Jun 26, 2023 / 04:26 PM EDT

 MOREHEAD CITY, N.C. – The N.C. Division of Marine Fisheries recently certified a new state record Blueline Tilefish, also called Gray Tilefish (Caulolatilus microps). 

Thomas Adkins of Sutherland, Va., caught the 17-pound, 1.9-ounce fish near Tower B, offshore of Nags Head on June 11. The previous state record Blueline Tilefish weighed 16-pounds, 8-ounces and was caught off Oregon Inlet in 2004.

Adkins was fishing with his father when he landed the fish using cut bait, and a Shimano 700 reel on a Trevala rod.

Adkin’s fish measured 36 inches total length (from the tip of the nose to the end of the tail) and had a 20.5-inch girth. For more information on state record fish, go to the division’s State Saltwater Records webpage or contact the North Carolina Saltwater Fishing Tournament staff at saltwater.citations@ncdenr.gov.

As The Trout Bite Slows on the Coast

North Carolina's coastal waters are a haven for avid anglers seeking the thrill of catching speckled trout. These prized sportfish offer not only a challenging pursuit but also a delicious treat for the dinner table. However, understanding the environmental factors that influence their behavior and knowing the best temperature for speckled trout fishing can significantly enhance your chances of a successful outing. In this article, we explore the optimal temperature range for targeting speckled trout in the waters of North Carolina.

The Importance of Water Temperature:

Water temperature plays a crucial role in the feeding patterns, spawning behavior, and movement of speckled trout. As cold-blooded creatures, they rely on the surrounding water temperature to regulate their metabolism and activity levels. While speckled trout can tolerate a range of temperatures, certain thresholds are known to trigger their feeding instincts and increase their overall activity, making these periods prime for anglers.

The Best Temperature Range:

In North Carolina, the ideal temperature range for speckled trout fishing typically falls between 55°F (13°C) and 70°F (21°C). During this period, speckled trout become more active, aggressively feeding on baitfish and shrimp, making them more susceptible to various fishing techniques.

Early Spring and Late Fall:

During early spring, when water temperatures start to climb above the 55°F (13°C) mark, speckled trout begin to emerge from their winter hiding spots and actively feed. They move from deeper waters to shallower areas, such as estuaries, creeks, and grass flats, to take advantage of the increased food availability. As the water warms further, speckled trout will be found in abundance throughout North Carolina's coastal waters.

Similarly, late fall offers excellent speckled trout fishing opportunities as the water temperature cools down from the summer months. During this time, speckled trout feed voraciously, fattening up for the winter ahead. As temperatures hover around the upper end of the preferred range, targeting speckled trout becomes highly rewarding.

Summer Challenges:

While summer may present challenges for speckled trout fishing due to the higher water temperatures, anglers can still find success by adapting their strategies. Speckled trout seek cooler, oxygen-rich waters during this time, often retreating to deeper channels, inlets, and areas near the ocean. Early mornings and late evenings, when the water temperature drops slightly, can be the most productive periods for summer speckled trout fishing.

Winter Considerations:

During the colder winter months, when water temperatures fall below the optimal range, speckled trout become less active and tend to retreat to deeper waters or seek out thermal refuges such as heated discharge areas near power plants. However, pockets of activity can still be found in the relatively warmer waters of tidal creeks and rivers, where speckled trout continue to feed.

To maximize your chances of catching speckled trout in North Carolina, paying close attention to water temperature is essential. While the optimal range for targeting these prized fish falls between 55°F (13°C) and 70°F (21°C), understanding their behavior in different seasons and adapting your strategies accordingly can lead to a rewarding fishing experience. So, grab your gear, study the water temperature, and head out to the coastal waters of North Carolina for an unforgettable speckled trout adventure.