Topsail Beach Inshore Fishing Report: August 13, 2025

Captain Mike Hoffman
(910) 619-8509
https://topsailislandfishingguides.com

Trip Details & Conditions

Date: 08/13/2025
Region: Inshore
Location: North Topsail Beach, NC
Technique: Sight-Casting
Water: Outgoing Tide, Strong Current
Weather: Partly Cloudy, High Humidity

Captain’s Log: Late Summer Bite is On Fire!

As summer starts to wind down, the inshore fishing around North Topsail Beach is absolutely thriving. We’re having a fantastic season on our charters, with plenty of action on our primary target species.

Red Drum

The Red Drum fishing is excellent right now. We’re finding abundant schools around the grass banks and oyster bars. Using live menhaden and mullet has been the key to success, especially for targeting the larger, slot-sized drum. Sight-casting to these fish in the shallows has provided some incredible action.

Flounder

Flounder fishing remains strong and consistent. We’ve been boating plenty of keepers by targeting docks and the edges of deeper channels on the outgoing tide. Both live bait and cut bait on a bottom rig are producing solid results.

Speckled Trout

We are also catching some quality Speckled Trout, primarily along grass banks mixed in with the reds. The bite is most aggressive during the early morning and late afternoon hours, so timing the trip right has been crucial for connecting with these beautiful fish.

Late summer is a prime time for an inshore fishing adventure in the Topsail area. With this variety of species actively feeding, now is the perfect time to get on the water. Give me a call to book your trip and experience this fantastic local fishery!

**Fishing Report: Late Summer Inshore Fishing Charters in Topsail Beach and Surf City, NC (August 2025)**

As summer winds down, inshore fishing around Topsail Beach and Surf City is thriving. Anglers are enjoying a productive season with various species making their presence known.

Original submitted report:

“**Target Species:**
– **Red Drum**: Red drum are abundant in the area. Anglers are having success using live bait such as menhaden and mullet, particularly around grass banks and oyster bars. These are prime spots for targeting larger drum.
– **Flounder**: Flounder fishing remains strong, with many catches reported on both live and cut baits. Docks and deeper channels are excellent locations to find these flatfish.
– **Speckled Trout**: Some speckled trout are also being caught, primarily along grass banks. These fish are typically more active during early mornings or late afternoons, so timing can be crucial.
– **Cobia**: A few cobia have been spotted in the area, adding an exciting challenge for those willing to venture a bit farther out.

**Fishing Techniques:**
Anglers are utilizing a mix of live bait and artificials, depending on the target species. Bottom fishing and drifting are effective methods for flounder, while casting topwater lures can be great for red drum and speckled trout.

**Charter Recommendations:**
Local charters like East Coast Sports and Native Son Guide Service are highly recommended for both novice and experienced anglers. They offer tailored experiences to optimize your chances of landing a big catch.

Late summer is a prime time for inshore fishing in Topsail Beach and Surf City. With the variety of species available and the number of successful charters, now is a great time to plan a fishing trip and experience the local waters. Happy fishing!”