Here are some tips to make your trip more enjoyable if you want to try wahoo-fishing in North Carolina. Whether you're fishing from an offshore trolling boat or using one of the many high-speed lures, the following information will help you find the best catch. And remember, there's no size limit for recreational catch of wahoo. And as long as you're holding the appropriate commercial licenses, you'll have no problem landing a trophy fish.
Offshore trolling
It is best to go offshore fishing for wahoo in North Carolina during the autumn, particularly late August and early September. Wahoos start appearing in the waters surrounding Morehead City between mid and late August. Fishing is best when there is little or no current. For offshore trolling, the best bait is a simple ballyhoo. Several other lures are also popular, including cedar plugs, Green Machines, and Wahoo Whackers.
Whajoo do not fear boats and prefer baits that are fished below the surface. This is a very common technique in the Bahamas, which has boats pulling artificials at speeds as high as twenty knots. However, in the Carolinas, Barracuda are not a problem. Wahoos also respond to ocean temperatures rising. The conditions for fishing and the temperatures in the water are perfect for wahoo.
In the spring and fall, wahoo are the primary target. However, the timing of the winter to spring transition determines when other species will make an appearance. In the spring, yellowfin tuna used to be the main target, but this has changed in recent years. While there are some caught, they are few. This has made it more rewarding to catch them. If you are interested in high-speed trolling techniques, you might want to read about five successful captains.
Ballyhoos
Ballyhoos are the best bait for catching wahoo. The bait can be frozen or fresh and is best retrieved with a trolling size J-hook. The hook must be placed in a way that the wire pin touches the fish's nostrils. Ballyhoos make great surface and seafloor fisherman.
Wahoos typically hang out in the deeper water column, but they can be found even on the sand and in the water. To attract wahoo strikes to your ballyhoo, you should choose a dark-colored ballyhoo. They are fast and aggressive, reaching speeds of up to 125 mph in just seconds. Ballyhoos also work well in luring other types fish.
Ballyhoos are one of the most effective wahoo luring devices in the waters around North Carolina. Ballyhoos come with a variety colors and textures. If properly fished, a ballyhoo may catch wahoo right in its natural waters. Ballyhoos can also be used as wahoo bait. You will need a hard lure such as a Yozuri Bonita and a Braid Marauder if your planer rod has one. These lures are available in several colors, including pink/black and purple/black.
When fishing for wahoo, a single-strand coffee-colored stainless steel wire leader will work well. A bridle should be attached to the leader. There are three to sixteen sizes of planers, so rigging is essential for success. Capt. Weaver also notes that wahoo are a common target. If you're planning to target wahoo you should rig your planer with a harness.
High-speed lures
A variety of high-speed trolling lures are ideal for targeting wahoo. These lures can be pulled using an inline trolling weight, and then placed on a planer or downrigger. For big tuna and wahoo, the dark colors work well. They are also durable and keep running straight after catching a lot of fish. MagBay and Nomad are also manufacturers of high speed trolling lures.
High-speed trolling baits are ideal for these fish, as they can move quickly enough to reach a good spot. Wahoo can hit speeds of 60 mph with strike lures travelling at 18 MPH. This is the average transiting lure's speed in two to four feet waves. Because of this, you need to use heavy lures with quality drag. To maximize your chances of success, it is recommended that you gaff the fish two times.
The lip-plug is one of most popular types of high speed lures. These lures can be rigged using wire or cable. The lure can be bent by this method, which can result in the cable breaking. The wire can also run straighter because it is less likely to bend or kink. To make it easier to change lures, you can use a clip.
Floating debris
This trophy fish can be found in floatable debris. Whajoo like to be found in bottom formations that are aggressive, such as wrecks or ledges. These structures make the perfect habitat to wahoo because they tend to pile up beneath them. The best place to target this fish is also floating debris. This material often works under these obstacles. Floating debris is also a great way to find these magnificent fish in their schools.
Before fishing for wahoo schools, it is important to inspect any floating debris for dolphins. If there are no dolphins or other baitfish in the area, he should leave it alone. To reach the wahoo, he should use a fast reel with a 6-to-1 speed ratio. It is recommended to use a 4 to 6 ounce diamond jig and a Mustad 3407 double-strength hook. The jigs should be large enough to protect a fluorocarbon leader 60 pounds in weight and a floating if the bait is caught in the debris. Butterfly-style jigs do not work - the hooks on the top are for assistance.
During the cooler months, the water surface temperature is cooler, increasing the odds of finding a Wahoo. This species prefers to live in cooler waters and areas that have current. Satellite imagery is used to monitor temperature and determine if small temperature fluctuations will result in an increase in Wahoo. As the water temperature drops, the fish population tends to move to these locations. This time is when fishing in these areas can be at its best.
Structure
A few exceptions may exist in the Gulf of Mexico. Wahoo follow migratory patterns. In the Atlantic, they may migrate through a sequence of regions: the Caribbean, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Western Atlantic, followed by the eastern Atlantic. The structure that these fish inhabit is based on currents and water temperature.
Whalos have a structure-oriented fall. They are attracted to inshore lumps and drops of up to 120 feet. This large fish is known for their razor-sharp jaws. Hagerich recommends heavy singlestrand wire and an extremely heavy-duty fishing rod in order to catch one. The captain assists anglers fishing wahoo by moving the boat around and helping them stay in the right gear.
Whalos can be aggressive bottom formations. They like to hang out around wrecks, ledges and other weedlines. They will often strike fast-moving baits. They are often found near weedlines or debris in North Carolina. This means they are more likely strike a lure or weedline. They can be caught at speeds of up 10 knots.
The best time to fish for wahoo is July through September, even though it's a year-round species. These fish prefer warmer Gulf Stream conditions, so if your goal is to find them, North Carolina's wahoo-fishing structure will be an excellent choice. To locate a few, you could trot around wrecks or offshore humps.
Peak times for feeding
Although there are many times throughout the year when wahoo-fishing is most productive, there are a few peak times during the month that are particularly productive. You should wahoo-fish on the days immediately preceding and following the Full Moon and New Moon. During these peak times, you should trolling at either a moderate or high speed. And as long as you have a boat that can handle the extra speed, you can expect to catch a wahoo.
Summer is the best season for wahoo fishing. These fish can be found on the ledges or structures between Jupiter and Stuart inlets. The average wahoo weighs around 25 pounds, but 50-pounders are not uncommon. This prime time is when you can catch both a large and smaller wahoo.
October to March is the best time to target wahoo. This is because the water temperature stays cool, making it more likely that wahoo will bite. Although the weather in May is often unpredictable, light-tackle fishing is best during this time. Blue-crystal is the best bait for wahoo fishing if you are planning a trip. However, if you're looking for big fish, you can try fishing during late April and early May.
FAQ
What type of gear are you going to need for fishing?
A rod, reel with line, hooks and bait, as well as some snacks. A cast is essential if you want to catch fish. You also need to know how to rig a hook. Be patient and wait until you catch the fish.
What type of fishing permit do I require?
A fishing license is required if you intend to fish in state waters, i.e. lakes, rivers and bays. The state laws require that anglers obtain a valid fishing licence before they can fish. If you are planning to fish in federal waters (e.g. oceans, Great Lakes etc.), you will need a fishing license. Fishing licenses are not required if you plan to fish in federal waters. However, you will need to check with the authorities before you take any fish home.
What is the best time to fish?
The ideal time to fish is early morning or late afternoon. These times are ideal for fish to be feeding and moving about.
What are the different types of lures you can use?
Yes, there is a wide range of lures. Some lures are specifically made for certain fish species. Others mimic insects, grasshoppers and frogs. There are many sizes and shapes of lures. Some lures are even shaped like real bugs.
What is the best way to get my kids hooked on fishing?
Absolutely! Children love fishing. The majority of children who are raised fishing will never stop. Encourage your child to learn how to fish. One way to encourage your child to learn how fishing is done is to teach them how you tie knots, how build a pole, and the basics of fishing etiquette. Show them pictures of fish, and tell them stories.
How far away from shore should I stand when fishing?
The farther you stand from the shore, the more likely you are to catch fish. However, it also increases the chance of getting soaked.
How can I tell if my lure is working?
Watch for movement when you throw your lure in the water. If you observe movement, your lure may be working properly.
Statistics
- About 40 percent of all fish are freshwater species. (takemefishing.org)
- It is estimated there are at least 2 million people who go fishing in California each year. (californiayachtsales.com)
- Orvis, Simms, and Fishpond have been making some of the best packs and vests for a long time, and it seems like 90% of the anglers around the area use these brands. (troutandsteelhead.net)
- For most freshwater species you are most likely to target when first starting out, a reel size of 20 to 30 should be more than enough! (strikeandcatch.com)
External Links
How To
How do I clean my fishing equipment?
There are many cleaning options for fishing equipment. Some are very simple while others require advanced techniques. The most common way to wash your clothes is with soap and water. Rinse the item with water after washing. If you don't rinse it well enough, there's a chance that some dirt remains inside, which could cause bacteria growth. If it is not cleaned properly, it could lead to an unpleasant odor or worse infections. This can be prevented by drying the items thoroughly before storing them. Another thing that you should keep in mind when doing any type of cleaning is to avoid touching the surface of the item. Germs can be transferred to the object if you touch it.
Apart from using soap, water, there are many ways you can improve the quality and performance of your fishing gear. For example, depending on your type of gear, you might want to use special detergents or solvents. Some things should not be used, though, as they may cause damage to your goods. Bleach is one such thing. Bleach can be used to dissolve plastics and metals, so don't ever use bleach to clean your fishing equipment. Warm water and a dishwashing detergent are better choices. Only use dishwashing detergents designed to clean fish. Dishwashing fluids contain chemicals and enzymes that break down organic materials, such as blood, slime and scales. They also contain surfactants, which help to remove dirt and grime. A stain remover is recommended if you have concerns about stain removal. Oils and fats left on the surface cause most stains. Applying stain removers directly to the area where the oil or fat came from helps remove the stain without damaging the underlying material.
There are many cleaners available for fishing gear at your local hardware store. There are many cleaners available in most stores, each with a different purpose. Some are meant for small amounts while others are better suited to larger quantities. The one that best suits your needs is available.