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Get ready for an angler’s paradise as we introduce you to a wide variety of fish species native to Hatteras. Explore the beauty of reeling in Red Drum, Black Drum, Gray Trout (Weakfish), Speckled Trout (Spotted Sea Trout), Flounder, Bluefish, Cobia, Albacore, Spanish Mackerel and more!
In Hatteras, North Carolina, the prime season for catching Speckled Trout begins in September, with these fish known for their lively fight and excellent table fare quality. Anglers typically use soft plastics, jigs, or topwater plugs as effective baits, adapting their techniques to water temperature for the best results.
| Slot | Table Fare | Fight Rating | Sugg. Bait | Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 14- | EXCELLENT | 10-10 | LIVE BAIT | WINTER |
Red Drum, celebrated as North Carolina’s official state saltwater fish, are known for their strong, enduring fights and can be caught year-round in Hatteras, with spring and fall being the peak seasons. These copper-colored fish, reaching up to 60 inches and over 90 pounds, eagerly strike jigs, plugs, and topwater lures, making them a favorite target for anglers.
| Slot | Table Fare | Fight Rating | Sugg. Bait | Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18-27 | EXCELLENT | 10-10 | LIVE BAIT | WINTER |
Albacore in Hatteras are known for their speed and agility, offering an exciting challenge for anglers, especially when fishing offshore. These fish are sought after for their light, flavorful meat and are commonly targeted using trolling methods with lures or live bait.
| Slot | Table Fare | Fight Rating | Sugg. Bait | Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| No limit | Excellent | 10/10 | jig | summer/fall |
Cobia in Hatteras waters are prized for their strong fight and are often found near structures or cruising the surface. They provide excellent table fare with a rich, flavorful taste and are typically caught using live bait or sight casting.
| Slot | Table Fare | Fight Rating | Sugg. Bait | Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 36″ FORK LENGTH | EXCELLENT | 9-10 | LIVE EEL OR COBIA JIG | JULY |
Black Drum in Hatteras are recognized for their powerful fight, especially the larger ones, making them a popular target for inshore anglers. They are known for their sweet, mild flavor, with smaller ones being more desirable for eating, and can be caught using baits like crabs or shrimp.
| Slot | Table Fare | Fight Rating | Sugg. Bait | Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 14″ -24″ | EXCELLENT | 10-10 | LIVE BAIT | WINTER |
Gray Trout, also known as Weakfish in Hatteras, offer a moderate fight, popular among inshore anglers. They are valued for their delicate flavor and are typically caught using light tackle with jigs or live bait.
| Slot | Table Fare | Fight Rating | Sugg. Bait | Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 inches | GOOD | 7/10 | LIVE BAIT or JIG |
Spanish Mackerel in Hatteras are known for their fast and aggressive fighting style, providing an exhilarating experience for anglers. They are prized for their rich, oily flesh, ideal for grilling, and are often caught trolling with small shiny lures or spoons.
| Slot | Table Fare | Fight Rating | Sugg. Bait | Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20″-25″ | EXCELLENT | 10-10 | BAIT LIVE BAIT | WINTER |
