Blueline Tilefish

If you're aiming for blueline tilefish, Hatteras is a great place to start. You'll need to head far offshore, past the Gulf Stream, to depths of 400-800 feet. The edge of the continental shelf, about 60-80 miles out, is where they tend to congregate. The warmer months, from late spring to early fall, are generally the best for targeting them, as the weather is more predictable. Keep in mind that Hatteras is known for its strong currents, so be prepared to use heavy weights to keep your bait on the bottom. A local's trick is to use a sea anchor to slow your drift and cover more ground. Look for areas with rocky or uneven bottom, as these provide the habitat that tilefish prefer. Squid and cut bait are popular choices, and some anglers have success with deep-drop jigs. The tilefish here are known for being good-sized, so be sure to bring appropriate tackle and plenty of ice.