Angler holding a large red drum aboard a fishing boat in the inshore waters near Topsail Island, North CarolinaTopsail Island Fishing Report for: Oct 18, 2026 | Captain Mike Hoffman
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Topsail Island Fishing Report for: Nov 9, 2026 | Captain Mike Hoffman

Two anglers displaying red drum catches on a dock during a Topsail Island fishing trip with 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

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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.

Topsail Island Fishing Guides | Captain Mike Hoffman | Topsail.Fish | Topsail Island Fishing Captains | Topsail Island Fishing Charters


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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Follow the Bite Across Topsail Island

Every captain report captures a single day on the water. Continue your research by exploring additional captain reports, weekly fishing trends, seasonal patterns, current fishing conditions, proven techniques, and our directory of experienced local captains.

About the Author: Captain Mike Hoffman

Topsail Island Fishing Guides | Captain Mike Hoffman | Topsail.Fish | Topsail Island Fishing Captains | Topsail Island Fishing Charters
Captain Mike Hoffman is a native of coastal southeastern NC who has been fishing since he was 5-years-old. He has been a full-time fisherman since 1987. He fished the Pro Bass Tour for 11 years, and during this time he won numerous awards. He got his captain’s license in 1998 and his Master Captain’s license in 2008.

Topsail Island Fishing Guides | Captain Mike Hoffman | Topsail.Fish | Topsail Island Fishing Captains | Topsail Island Fishing Charters

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