September in the Cape Fear Region
September in the Cape Fear Region is a beautiful time of the year skies are clear with temperatures in the low 80 degrees. This particular morning the wind was very light, I was able to run south on the Cape Fear River at 35 mph. Getting up before daybreak is what I do in order to catch live bait for the days inshore charter. The ride south on the Cape Fear River is really special first thing in the morning, everything is just beginning to move the pelicans and birds are starting to look for food. Schools of bait and fish can be easily spotted on the surface. The air itself smells clean and fresh.
Today’s plan was to try to fish the creeks leading into Buzzard Bay, the reason being the depth of the water is deeper, probably having cooler water temperatures. Today’s charter guest was Ben Eller and his son Lawson, both were eagerly awaiting to catch some red drum. On my live bait charters, we use light spinning rods & reels with the Carolina Rig with circle hooks. I explain to the quest that it is best not to try to set the hook by jerking the rod back. When fishing with circle hooks keep your rod pointed toward the direction of your line in an upright position about the 10:00 clock position. Once the fish pulls turn the reel handle a couple of quick turns this will normally hook the fish. Jerking back on the rod most of the time will result in pulling the bait out of the fish’s mouth. September in the Cape Fear can lead to some exciting red drum fishing.
Setting the anchor is important, lower the anchor as not to disturb the water be quiet and stealthy. Just a few minutes passed when Lawson hooked up with a nice red drum giving him a good fight. With just a little bit of coaching on how to smoothly turn the reel handle, he landed the fish quite well for his first red drum. Fishing is all about having fun on the water and enjoying the fishing experience. This father and son had a great morning of fishing with the Cape Fear Guide out of Carolina Beach, N.C.
Capt.Mike Dennis – Cape Fear Guide – 910-619-0928
Capt.Mike@charter.net