The north coast of North Carolina is known for its rich marine life, with over 200 species of fish found in the area. From small fry to large game fish, the North Carolina coast is a great destination for any angler looking to catch a variety of species. This article will highlight some of the most popular fish species found in the North Carolina coast.
Atlantic Croaker
The Atlantic croaker is one of the most common fish species found in the North Carolina coast. This species can be recognized by its distinctive croaking sound, which is produced when the fish rubs its swim bladder against its air bladder. The Atlantic croaker is a bottom-dwelling species and can typically be found in depths of up to 30 feet. They can grow up to 30 inches in length, and can weigh up to four pounds. This species is commonly caught with a variety of fishing methods, including bottom fishing and trolling.
Red Drum
The red drum, also known as the channel bass, is one of the most popular gamefish found in the North Carolina coast. This species can be identified by its red or copper coloration, and its distinctive drumming sound, which can be heard up to a mile away. The red drum can grow to lengths of up to three and a half feet, and can weigh up to fifty pounds. This species is commonly caught with a variety of fishing methods, including bottom fishing, trolling, and jigging.
Flounder
The flounder is another popular species found in the North Carolina coast. This species can be recognized by its flat, round body and its two eyes, which are located on the same side of its body. The flounder is a bottom-dwelling species and can typically be found in depths of up to 30 feet. They can grow up to 24 inches in length, and can weigh up to three and a half pounds. This species is commonly caught with a variety of fishing methods, including bottom fishing and trolling.
Speckled Trout
The speckled trout is another popular species found in the North Carolina coast. This species can be identified by its mottled green and black coloration. The speckled trout can grow up to lengths of up to twenty-four inches in length, and can weigh up to four and a half pounds. This species is commonly caught with a variety of fishing methods, including bottom fishing, trolling, and fly fishing.
Striped Bass
The striped bass is another popular species found in the North Carolina coast. This species can be identified by its dark stripes along its body. The striped bass can grow up to lengths of up to forty-eight inches in length, and can weigh up to sixty pounds. This species is commonly caught with a variety of fishing methods, including bottom fishing, trolling, and jigging.
Weakfish
The weakfish is another popular species found in the North Carolina coast. This species can be identified by its long, thin body and its bright silver coloration. The weakfish can grow up to lengths of up to thirty-six inches in length, and can weigh up to six and a half pounds. This species is commonly caught with a variety of fishing methods, including bottom fishing, trolling, and jigging.
Bluefish
The bluefish is another popular species found in the North Carolina coast. This species can be identified by its bluish-silver coloration and its sharp teeth. The bluefish can grow up to lengths of up to thirty-five inches in length, and can weigh up to twenty-five pounds. This species is commonly caught with a variety of fishing methods, including bottom fishing, trolling, and jigging.
Atlantic Mackerel
The Atlantic mackerel is another popular species found in the North Carolina coast. This species can be identified by its silver coloration and its distinctive black spot near its tail. The Atlantic mackerel can grow up to lengths of up to twenty-two inches in length, and can weigh up to four and a half pounds. This species is commonly caught with a variety of fishing methods, including bottom fishing, trolling, and jigging.
Other Species
In addition to the species already mentioned, there are a variety of other species found in the North Carolina coast, including spiny dogfish, black sea bass, tautog, and spotted seatrout. All of these species are popular with anglers, and can provide a great fishing experience.
Conclusion
The North Carolina coast is a great destination for anglers looking to catch a variety of species. From small fry to large game fish, the North Carolina coast is home to over 200 species of fish. This article highlighted some of the most popular fish species found in the North Carolina coast, including the Atlantic croaker, red drum, flounder, speckled trout, striped bass, weakfish, bluefish, and Atlantic mackerel. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced angler, the North Carolina coast is sure to provide an exciting and rewarding fishing experience.