Fresh Craven County Fishing Reports

Been fishing in a lot of different areas and it remains the same. 30-100 trout everyday all on artificial baits.

**Neuse River Fishing Report:** **Location:** Oriental, NC: Trout have migrated up the creeks along both sides of the Neuse River. Look for holes at least 5 feet deep on cloudy days, while focusing on muddy shallows during sunny weather. **Technique:** Slow fishing is key. Vary presentations based on the day's conditions. Experiment with the fall, hop, or dead sticking techniques. **Best Times:** Optimal fishing times are on bright, sunny days. **Bait and Lures:** Using 1/8 jig heads with twisty tails and scent has been consistent. Additionally, the trusty MR17 lure is also attracting bites. Remember, adaptability is crucial—vary your presentation and location to optimize your chances of a successful catch!

Trout are on the move in the Neuse. Water temps have started to fire up the transition to winter spots. Look for windy areas near creeks that have depth changes. Don’t ignore shallow areas if the sun is out. DOA Deadly Combo & MRs are my preferred choice right now. Pup & Slot Reds are on main river points and wolf packing. Late day seems to be the best action. ☠️?☠️?

While windy today, Pamlico Pirate Fishing Charters Captain Dave Hegel's client was able to land a nice Old Drum off a shoal near Oriental, NC. The bite has slowed the last few days, but the wind shift should help get the great bite we had last week back on track. While the popping cork was the choice last week, Capt. Dave, because of the windy seas, choose to use cut bait on a ledge. Bait is thick in the river but for some reason not on the surface the last few days like days prior. Blue fish are schooling on glass minnows. Don't pass the blue school because Old Drum can be under the blues looking for an easy meal. Tight Lines!

Large schools of “Old Drum” have entered the river and fish can be caught from Gum Thicket to New Bern. Soaking bait, popping corks and top water are all methods that are working. Focus on shoal areas near deepest parts of the river. Both sides of the river are producing but the North Side has been better for our charters this week. The bite has actually been better for us late morning the last few days. Stay as far away from the bait balls as you can cast. Don’t spook the bait ball.

The Redfish migration first wave got to the Neuse early this year & reached New Bern in early July. The next wave seemed to be delayed verses normal years. The reason could be the anomaly of two full moons in August. This week, there were Old Drum from Gum Thicket & South River to the ferry. The tropical storm has the water way up and lots of oxygen being generated. Look for the Neuse to be on fire in the coming days once the water settles from the storm. ☠️☠️