Sheepshead

Kitty Hawk offers some surprisingly good sheepshead fishing, especially if you know where to look. These convict-striped fish are masters of structure, so focus your attention on docks, pilings, and bridge supports in the Albemarle and Pamlico Sounds. The best time to target them is from late spring through early fall, when the water temperatures are warmer. Fiddler crabs are the bait of choice, but barnacles scraped directly from the structure can also be effective. Fish tight to the structure, using a small, sharp hook and a minimal amount of weight. A local tip: the old Bonner Bridge pilings (even the submerged ones) are a sheepshead magnet, but be extremely careful navigating around the debris. Sheepshead in this area can be quite wary, so stealth and a natural presentation are essential. Be prepared for a strong fight when you hook one – they're known for their powerful runs and ability to break you off on structure.