Topsail Island Fishing Report for: Nov 9, 2026 | Captain Mike Hoffman

Region
Inshore
Location(s)
Hampstead, Intracoastal, New River, North Topsail Beach, Sneads Ferry, Surf City, Topsail Beach, Topsail Sound
Target Species
Black Drum, Flounder, Red Drum, Speckled Trout
Technique(s)
Jigging, Sight-Casting
Water Conditions
Clear Water, Outgoing Tide
Weather Conditions
Cold Front, Sunny
November Inshore Fishing Is Producing Outstanding Catches
Fall fishing around Topsail Island is delivering some outstanding action, and Captain Mike Hoffman of Topsail Island Fishing Guides reports that the inshore bite has been nothing short of amazing. Here is Captain Mike’s Topsail Fishing Report November 2026.
Fishing the waters around Surf City and Topsail Beach, Captain Mike reports numerous 50-fish days, with red drum, speckled trout, black drum, and flounder all contributing to the action.
With several species feeding and productive fishing conditions continuing into November, anglers have plenty of reasons to get out on the water.
Red Drum and Speckled Trout Lead the Fall Action
Red drum and speckled trout remain important players in the November inshore bite, with Captain Mike reporting excellent fishing throughout the Surf City and Topsail Beach areas.
Artificial lures and popping corks have been producing consistently for Mike, giving anglers effective options for targeting fish throughout the day.
The variety of fish being caught is especially encouraging. Rather than relying on a single species, anglers are encountering multiple inshore favorites during their outings.
Black Drum and Flounder Add to the Variety
Along with redfish and trout, Captain Mike reports that black drum and flounder are also part of the current catch.
Having all four species in the mix makes November an exciting time for inshore fishing. Whether anglers are targeting red drum, working artificial presentations for trout, or encountering black drum and flounder, the opportunities are plentiful.
The reported 50-fish days demonstrate just how productive the fall fishing has been around Surf City and Topsail Beach.
Outgoing Tides Are Producing the Best Results
One of the most valuable observations in Captain Mike’s latest report concerns the tides.
With unusually high tides occurring recently, Mike reports that outgoing tides have been producing his best fishing.
As water begins moving out of the marshes, creeks, and shallow areas, baitfish and other forage can be carried toward channels and current seams where feeding fish may be waiting.
Anglers planning an inshore trip should pay particular attention to the outgoing tide and look for areas where moving water concentrates bait.
Artificial Baits and Popping Corks Are Working
Captain Mike reports that artificial baits and popping corks are his productive presentations right now.
These approaches allow anglers to cover water, work different depths, and target feeding fish as conditions change.
With red drum, speckled trout, black drum, and flounder all appearing in the catches, having several presentations available can help anglers take advantage of the variety November has to offer.
Don’t Miss the Fall Fishing Opportunities
November is proving that the fishing season around Topsail Island is far from over.
With Captain Mike reporting numerous 50-fish days, excellent species variety, and productive outgoing tides, the fall inshore bite continues to provide exciting opportunities for local anglers and visiting fishermen alike.
And Captain Mike closes his latest report with a reminder worth sharing:
Remember to take your kids fishing this fall!
To book a guided inshore fishing trip, visit Topsail Island Fishing Guides or call Captain Mike Hoffman at (910) 619-8509.
Original Submission – Captain Mike Hoffman November 9, 2026 Fishing Report
Fall fishing is here and the bite is amazing. Lots of 50 fish days in Surf City and Topsail Beach areas. Reds, Trout, Black drum and Flounder are all in the mix. Artificial baits along with popping corks are working for me. Out going tides have been best with the high tides we have been having lately. Remember to take your kids fishing this fall!
Thank you Captain Mike and Tight Lines!
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Phone: (910) 619-8509
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