Weakfish

Hatteras, North Carolina, offers a unique opportunity to target weakfish in a variety of habitats. From the Pamlico Sound's shallow grass flats to the deeper channels and inlets connecting to the Atlantic, weakfish are present for much of the year. The best time to target them is during the spring and fall migrations when larger fish move through the area. Look for them around structure like docks, bridges, and oyster bars. A local tip is to focus on areas with moving water, as weakfish are ambush predators and prefer to lie in wait for baitfish. Soft plastics and small metal jigs are effective lures. Keep in mind that weakfish have delicate mouths, so use light tackle and avoid setting the hook too hard. The local population has seen fluctuations in recent years, so practicing catch and release is encouraged to help maintain a healthy fishery. Public access points are available along Highway 12, offering wade-fishing opportunities and boat ramps for accessing the sound and inlets.