Spanish mackerel fishing has shown noticeable improvement around Carolina Beach over the past week, and anglers are enjoying excellent action across both nearshore and offshore fisheries.

Nearshore Trolling Report

The Spanish mackerel bite has picked up. While the action can still be hit or miss, even slower trips are producing 10–15 fish. On better days, anglers are returning with 20+ Spanish mackerel in the cooler.

If you’re looking for a fun, action-packed trip without running far offshore, now is a great time to target Spanish mackerel.

Nearshore Reef Fishing Report

Nearshore reef fishing continues to be one of the most consistent options available.

• Porgys
• Grunts
• Gray trout
• Red drum
• Flounder
• Sharks

Hammerhead sharks have also started showing up around the reefs. Most have been in the 4–5 foot range, but one impressive hammerhead estimated at 8–9 feet was spotted cruising just beneath the surface this week.

Offshore Trolling Report

Offshore trolling has been a little slower than expected, but quality fish are still being found. King mackerel continue to provide steady action, barracuda are showing up regularly, and most trips are finding one or two mahi-mahi.

Offshore Bottom Fishing Report

Bottom fishing remains the highlight of the current season. The reefs and ledges continue producing excellent catches of:

• Amberjack
• Gag grouper
• Scamp grouper
• Red grouper
• Vermilion snapper
• Grunts

Several quality grouper and amberjack have come over the rail this week, and the bite continues to be consistent for anglers targeting bottom species.

Overall Conditions

Overall, fishing around Carolina Beach continues to improve as summer settles in. Nearshore trolling is becoming more productive, reef fishing remains dependable, and offshore bottom fishing continues to produce some of the best catches of the season.

As always, weather conditions play a major role in where we can fish, but when offshore conditions cooperate, anglers are finding plenty of opportunities to put fresh fish in the cooler.

We look forward to seeing everyone on the water. Tight lines, and we’ll see you on the next fishing report!