May Fishing Report: Lower Neuse River/ P

NEUSE RIVER FISHING REPORT (not a single day report but the last couple weeks) The secondary creeks throughout the Neuse River are holding impressive numbers of Speckled Trout and Flounder, with some reds mixed in. One of the most encouraging signs has been the sheer number of smaller trout in the 10–13” class. That’s great news and an encouraging indication that last winter’s cold stun may not have had the widespread negative impact on the trout population that many of us initially feared. What’s Working: Most fish have been caught on the DOA Deadly Combo, DOA Jerk Shads, and artificial shrimp rigged on a 1/16 oz jighead. Topwater presentations have also been drawing some attention from larger trout, with fish in the 20–24” class showing up. These bigger fish have been more scattered and isolated, primarily holding around points and ledges. Where to Look: Focus on the mouths of secondary creeks along the river, as well as feeder creeks branching off those systems. Fish appear to be gradually transitioning toward their winter holding areas, following their seasonal movement into these creek systems. The Takeaway: There’s plenty of life in the creeks right now, and the numbers of smaller trout are particularly encouraging. As the seasonal transition continues, expect fish to concentrate more around their winter patterns. Good fishing, and we’ll see you on the water! Captain Dave Hegel

The sea trout are 3/4 of the way out of the main creeks and headed for the Neuse River. D.O.A. Deadly Combo (popping cork), 3" D.O.A. Swim Baits and top water are all great choices. Vary your approach to cover Top, Mid and bottom. Work windy points from bank to mid channel. They are moving in and out to feed. Some bigger trout are hitting larger profiles and top water along with slot reds now moving into the system. The fishing has been FANTASTIC!

The Neuse River & Pamlico Sound are still producing Trophy Drum. This 48” monster came off a; DOA Cork & Cal Swim Bait white/chartreuse. Leader was 90 lbs braided wire to prevent blue fish from stealing your cork. Small schools are still roaming the river eating the plentiful shrimp, menhadden & mullet. Most fish are bewteen Bay River and the Ferry. As with past years, the blue fush schools usually have a trophy drum near by. All traditional methods are working but expectations should be limited based on the fresh water preventing huge numbers of fish to enter the river during the spawn. Look for a couple more weeks of the last class to stay until that NE cold front hits the sound & signals the drum to head back to the Atlantic. Captain Dave Hegel reports that cork bites are limited and still will use cut bait if he cant find baitfish on the surface. ☠️?☠️? #pamlicopiratefishingcharters