Old (Bull Drum) Neuse River

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 1st 2 weeks in May; have been as good a May as I can remember. There are Over Slots, Old Drum, Slots, Big Striper and big Trout from Kennel Beach to South River both sides of the Neuse. Don't be surprised if the Blue fish invade your area, there's 4 & 5 pound blues all over the river. Fun to catch but have wire leaders ready if using artificial bait. For Reds, focus on sandy banks with a flat near deeper water. Watch for menhaden and those reds will be there. Best bait options are a DOA Curl tail "gold Rush" color if sunny and Root beer if cloudy. Also, the DOA Bait Buster same colors if there is surface activity. Reel on pace to get to the surface, and "kill" the bait, they hit the fall. Smaller "slot" Lupton rigs with live or cut bait is also effective. Find structure or steep drops, you'll catch some fish!