Don’t miss the first moments of light on a slick-calm morning when exploring North Carolina’s Crystal Coast. Core Sound and Cape Lookout National Seashore provide an unforgettable setting.
As I pole my skiff across a submerged shoal covered in eel grass, I’m hopeful to find a school of red drum. Perhaps some spotted seatrout are working the area, or maybe a striped bass has ventured into the zone. These waters see an abundance of fish, in large part due to the influence of both the northbound Gulf Stream and the southbound Labrador Current. Major ocean currents combine in this spot daily with the changing of the tides.
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Sportfish await the incoming tide to provide them with enough water to return to their desired locations. Look to the grass beds during the peak of each tide cycle, pinpointing the potholes and sloughs. Occasionally, anglers will see redfish with their backs out of the water and tails waving feverously. Seatrout tend to be more elusive, utilizing their disruptive spot pattern to blend in. For a few hours on each side of the low, fish concentrate together on the outer edges. I make a long cast beyond a familiar submerged drop-off into deeper water. My bait glides smoothly across the surface with help from a steady cadence. Suddenly, the water erupts, and I feel the weight of a solid fish striking the lure. These are the rewards of waking up early and getting out there.
