09/21/2026
🍂 Fall is one of our favorite times to fish the beaches of Oak Island. 🎣
As the water cools and baitfish move along the coast, the surf can come alive with red drum, whiting, croaker, bluefish and pompano. Red drum are especially popular in the fall, with schools of bait like mullet and menhaden bringing bigger fish close to shore.
If you’re heading out, try cut or live mullet for red drum, while shrimp and sand fleas can be great options for whiting, croaker and other bottom feeders.
When to go: Early and late in the day can be productive, but don’t overlook the tide. Look for moving water, bait activity, cuts and troughs along the beach. And when you see birds working over bait, pay attention — that’s often a good sign that something is feeding below.
👉 Check current NC fishing regulations & licenses:
NC Division of Marine Fisheries:
https://www.deq.nc.gov/about/divisions/marine-fisheries 
Save this for your next fall fishing day on Oak Island! 🌊🎣
