Flounder

If you're looking to target flounder near Kitty Hawk, you're in a good spot. The area's mix of shallow sounds and inlets provides excellent habitat for these flatfish. The warmer months, from late spring through early fall, are the most productive. Focus your efforts on sandy or muddy bottoms near channel edges, docks, and bridge pilings. Live bait, such as mud minnows or small mullet, fished on a Carolina rig is a classic and effective presentation. Drifting these baits slowly along the bottom is key. A local's secret: the area around the Oregon Inlet Bridge is known to hold some doormat-sized flounder. Be aware of strong currents, though, and adjust your weight accordingly to maintain bottom contact. Flounder in this area are generally opportunistic feeders, so a slow, deliberate presentation is often more effective than aggressive jigging. Remember to check the current size and creel limits before heading out, as they can change seasonally.