Topsail’s Summer Fishing Forecast: What’s Biting and Where to Find Them!

As the summer sun warms the waters around Topsail Island, the local fishing scene heats up into a world-class angling experience. From the shallow backwaters to the nearshore reefs, the months of June, July, and August offer incredible opportunities for both novice and seasoned anglers. If you’re planning a trip, this Topsail summer fishing forecast will guide you to what’s biting and the best spots to find them.

Whether you’re casting from a pier, the surf, or a charter boat, here’s what you can expect to target this season.

Inshore Fishing: The Marshes and Waterways Come Alive

The inshore waters around Topsail are teeming with life during the summer. The warmer temperatures push baitfish like mullet and menhaden into the estuaries, and the predators are right behind them. This is the perfect time for a calm, scenic, and productive day of fishing.

Red Drum: These iconic fish are a primary target. Look for “Puppy Drum” in the slot limit around oyster bars, grassy flats, and under docks throughout the Intracoastal Waterway. Early mornings and late afternoons are prime times to find them chasing bait.
Flounder: Summer is peak season for doormat flounder. These flatfish ambush their prey from the sandy bottom. Focus on the mouths of creeks, inlet channels, and nearshore reefs. Live finger mullet or menhaden on a Carolina rig is an irresistible presentation.
Speckled Trout: While they prefer slightly cooler water, you can still find impressive speckled trout during summer, especially around dawn and dusk. Target areas with moving water and deeper holes where they can escape the midday heat.
Sheepshead & Black Drum: These striped bandits are structure-oriented. Target bridge pilings, dock posts, and oyster beds using fiddler crabs or live shrimp to entice a bite. They offer a fun fight and are excellent on the dinner table.

Nearshore & Offshore: Action Along the Beaches and Beyond

For those looking for a bigger fight, the nearshore waters just off Topsail’s beaches are on fire during the summer months. Trolling and live-baiting become highly effective tactics.

Spanish Mackerel: Look for schools of Spanish mackerel aggressively feeding on baitfish near the surface, often indicated by diving birds. Trolling with Clarkspoons behind a small planer or casting metal jigs into a feeding frenzy provides fast-paced action.
King Mackerel: The larger cousins of the Spanish, King Mackerel, are a prized catch. They are often found around nearshore artificial reefs and live bottom areas. Slow-trolling live baits like menhaden is the go-to method for hooking a “smoker” king.
Cobia: These powerful and curious fish are a highlight of the Topsail summer fishing forecast. They can be found shadowing bait pods, buoys, and even sea turtles. Have a heavy-duty rod ready to pitch a live eel or a large bucktail jig if you spot one.

Tips for a Successful Summer Fishing Trip

The summer heat requires a smart approach to your fishing day.

Fish Early or Late: The best bite and most comfortable conditions are typically from sunrise to mid-morning, and then again in the late afternoon until sunset.
Live Bait is King: While artificial lures are effective, the abundance of natural prey makes live bait exceptionally productive during the summer.
Stay Hydrated and Protected: The North Carolina sun is strong. Bring plenty of water, wear polarized sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and apply sunscreen regularly.

Book a Charter to Guarantee Action

The easiest way to ensure a successful day on the water is to hire an expert. A local fishing guide knows the current patterns, has the right gear, and can put you on the fish quickly and safely. They handle the details so you can focus on the fun.

Ready to experience the best of summer angling? Explore our directory of professional Topsail Island Fishing Captains and book the trip of a lifetime today!

Topsail Fish | Topsail Island Fishing Guides | Topsail Island Fishing Captains | Topsail Island Fishing Charters

Topsail’s Summer Fishing Forecast: What’s Biting and Where to Find Them!