FaceBook Fishing Topsail Group
Topsail Area Charter Boats
2009 NC Recreational Coastal Waters Guide
Hello from Topsail Beach! I went surf fishing this morning, fished two hours before until two hours after high tide. I caught several snapper blues, about 10 to 12 inches, used one for cut bait and released the rest. A short flounder bit the cut blue fish. She was only a quarter inch short, but she was really thick. I am a stickler for the size limits of all fish, but I have to admit, I thought about running this one across the dunes real quick. She was a beauty, but common sense ruled and she was released unharmed. She would have made some nice fillets! I also caught two pompano, one way bigger than my hand, and the other bout hand size. Fresh cut shrimp caught three nice keeper mullets, all five fish now in the freezer. Really nice day with my feet in the sand. Got a private show (no one else on the beach) by a pod of bottle nose dolphins. Jumping, twisting, flipping,....... like a show at Sea World! Lasted about ten minutes. I think they may have been feeding, not sure. Donna and I checked out Trout St after dinner tonight, got nothing but skeeter bites. Those Topsail Skeeters ran us off the dock after about an hour. They were so big, they were stealing our bait! Ok, maybe not, but they were big enough. Pogies and finger mullets were on the move, but none came close enough to net. Another good day at Topsail Beach! Of course, I really can't think of a bad day here......... maybe ....... nah, it's always a good day at Topsail!
Till next time....
tight lines!
Johnny and Donna
August 25, 2010
August 24, 2010
New Record! Surf City Pier
FaceBook Fishing Topsail Group
Topsail Area Charter Boats
2009 NC Recreational Coastal Waters Guide
Surf City Ocean Pier has a new record for the heaviest tarpon. Eleven year old Jaycob landed the monster after a two hour fight, the tarpon was landed.
Stats:
Weight: 133 lbs
Length: 70 inches
Girth: 33 inches
Bait: live shad
Read the entire story from the Surf City Pier Site, Click here:
Till next time....
tight lines!
Johnny and Donna
Topsail Area Charter Boats
2009 NC Recreational Coastal Waters Guide
Surf City Ocean Pier has a new record for the heaviest tarpon. Eleven year old Jaycob landed the monster after a two hour fight, the tarpon was landed.
Stats:
Weight: 133 lbs
Length: 70 inches
Girth: 33 inches
Bait: live shad
Read the entire story from the Surf City Pier Site, Click here:
Till next time....
tight lines!
Johnny and Donna
August 23, 2010
Red Drum
Till next time.,,,
Johnny
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry
August 22, 2010
Topsail Beach Purple Martins
Topsail Beach Purple Martin Blog
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry
August 12, 2010
Sea turtle hospital news
FaceBook Fishing Topsail Group
Topsail Area Charter Boats
2009 NC Recreational Coastal Waters Guide
Re-Print from The Topsail Voice. Click HERE to view the original article.
Leaving? So soon?
It’s been a crazy summer and it’s just flown by. Our college interns are headed back to school, or out into the cruel world in search of gainful employment. They’re taking lots of memories with them, and we thank them for giving us a bit of a break for what seemed like a very short time. Flipper hugs, guys.
Meet Remembrance
Speaking of our summer interns, they weren’t on the job more than a few days before one very sick Loggerhead arrived on the scene. Admitted on May 31, Remembrance was named in honor of those who fought for our country so that we could live in freedom.
This little lady was in the right place at the right time. A very concerned couple spotted her bobbing in the water near Masonboro Island, and stayed with her until our Wrightsville Beach coordinator, Nancy Fahey came to retrieve her. She arrived at our hospital emaciated and covered with barnacles and other ocean debris. She was so fragile that we wondered if something as innocuous as a gentle misting was going to send her over the edge.
After a few days in very shallow fresh water, under the constant care of intern Amanda it looked like maybe she had enough fight left in her to make it. Looking back on those first few weeks it’s obvious that this turtle is the 2010 poster child for the power of a strong will to live. But we can’t overlook the fact that she also had the benefit of our decades-plus experience in sea turtle rehabilitation, and the positive vibes flowing from hospital staff and visitors.
Long story short – she’s another one of our hospital miracles. And now that she’s feeling so much better her sparkling personality is really making her a standout in a sea (no pun intended) of turtles. She’s inquisitive and constantly thinks of ways to amuse herself. She’s fascinated by the water coming into her tank and enjoys playing catch with it. Remembrance is obviously happy and grateful for a second chance. She makes us smile.
Topsail Turtle Project
Wow – 97 nests and counting. The Loggerhead mamas are really industrious this year and we’re thrilled about the possibility of breaking 100 before the nesting season ends this month.
Island visitors and residents have always been great at reporting any and all sea turtle activity, but this year you’ve been especially attentive as our additional eyes on the beach. Our dedicated Topsail Turtle Project volunteers have already been pulling double shifts as their nests begin to hatch. You can keep up with nesting stats on our website: www.seaturtlehospital.org.
Michael Coyne (Administrator of seaturtle.org) was recently able to attach satellite tracking tags to two of our nesting Topsail Loggerheads, Topsail Belle and Naytiri. You can watch them journey up and down the Atlantic coast on www.seaturtle.org. You can also spy on Sennet, one of our rehabbed turtles who left us last September with his own satellite tracker.
Keep your eyes open for any and all sea turtle activity (nesting, stranding, harassment and/or unattended holes that could trap nesting mamas.) If you spot something contact Terry Meyer, our Director of Beach Operations, at 910-470-2880.
Note: We can tell the difference between Harris-Teeter Grade A Large and sea turtle eggs, and burying them is neither clever nor amusing. It’s just a waste of time and money.
Hospital Tours
We will remain open daily (except Wednesday & Sunday) from 2-4 p.m. through August. Meet five of our patients during your tour of our hospital, including our resident Kemp’s Ambassador Lennie. I’ve notice that Lennie has been furiously writing in his journal, and I’m really curious about what he’s putting in there. But every time I try to get a peek at it he tucks it under his flippers and refuses to hand it over.
Our record crowds are continuing and lines can be long. Come prepared with umbrellas and sunscreen, and if you live locally Saturday is the best day to visit. We have plenty of stock in our gift shop so don’t leave without checking out the new T-shirt colors and other items exclusive to our hospital.
This is our final summer in our current location, behind the blue water tank in Topsail Beach. Please feed that big donation jar on your way out. All contributions go toward our new facility as well as fund our work at our current location. We’re staffed by volunteers and completely supported by your donations!
Turtle Talks
Our popular “Turtle Talks” is back every Wednesday, through August. This family-friendly introduction to the wonderful world of sea turtles is held at the Surf City Community Center from 3:45 – 4:45 p.m. (so you won’t get caught at the bridge). There are lots of handouts and hands-on stuff for kids and adults. It’s fun, informative and free, but of course donations for our turtles and the hospital are gratefully accepted.
Questions/Comments? Contact me at: flippers@embarqmail.com with questions or comments. For an application to become a hospital volunteer or to be added to our future e-newsletter contact me at: flippers@att.net.
(Karen Sota is a volunteer at the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center, a.k.a. the turtle hospital. For more information on the sea turtle hospital go to www.seaturtehospital.org.)
Till next time....
Tight lines
Johnny and Donna
Topsail Area Charter Boats
2009 NC Recreational Coastal Waters Guide
Re-Print from The Topsail Voice. Click HERE to view the original article.
TOPSAIL VOICE
By Karen Sota
Leaving? So soon?
It’s been a crazy summer and it’s just flown by. Our college interns are headed back to school, or out into the cruel world in search of gainful employment. They’re taking lots of memories with them, and we thank them for giving us a bit of a break for what seemed like a very short time. Flipper hugs, guys.
Meet Remembrance
Speaking of our summer interns, they weren’t on the job more than a few days before one very sick Loggerhead arrived on the scene. Admitted on May 31, Remembrance was named in honor of those who fought for our country so that we could live in freedom.
This little lady was in the right place at the right time. A very concerned couple spotted her bobbing in the water near Masonboro Island, and stayed with her until our Wrightsville Beach coordinator, Nancy Fahey came to retrieve her. She arrived at our hospital emaciated and covered with barnacles and other ocean debris. She was so fragile that we wondered if something as innocuous as a gentle misting was going to send her over the edge.
After a few days in very shallow fresh water, under the constant care of intern Amanda it looked like maybe she had enough fight left in her to make it. Looking back on those first few weeks it’s obvious that this turtle is the 2010 poster child for the power of a strong will to live. But we can’t overlook the fact that she also had the benefit of our decades-plus experience in sea turtle rehabilitation, and the positive vibes flowing from hospital staff and visitors.
Long story short – she’s another one of our hospital miracles. And now that she’s feeling so much better her sparkling personality is really making her a standout in a sea (no pun intended) of turtles. She’s inquisitive and constantly thinks of ways to amuse herself. She’s fascinated by the water coming into her tank and enjoys playing catch with it. Remembrance is obviously happy and grateful for a second chance. She makes us smile.
Topsail Turtle Project
Wow – 97 nests and counting. The Loggerhead mamas are really industrious this year and we’re thrilled about the possibility of breaking 100 before the nesting season ends this month.
Island visitors and residents have always been great at reporting any and all sea turtle activity, but this year you’ve been especially attentive as our additional eyes on the beach. Our dedicated Topsail Turtle Project volunteers have already been pulling double shifts as their nests begin to hatch. You can keep up with nesting stats on our website: www.seaturtlehospital.org.
Michael Coyne (Administrator of seaturtle.org) was recently able to attach satellite tracking tags to two of our nesting Topsail Loggerheads, Topsail Belle and Naytiri. You can watch them journey up and down the Atlantic coast on www.seaturtle.org. You can also spy on Sennet, one of our rehabbed turtles who left us last September with his own satellite tracker.
Keep your eyes open for any and all sea turtle activity (nesting, stranding, harassment and/or unattended holes that could trap nesting mamas.) If you spot something contact Terry Meyer, our Director of Beach Operations, at 910-470-2880.
Note: We can tell the difference between Harris-Teeter Grade A Large and sea turtle eggs, and burying them is neither clever nor amusing. It’s just a waste of time and money.
Hospital Tours
We will remain open daily (except Wednesday & Sunday) from 2-4 p.m. through August. Meet five of our patients during your tour of our hospital, including our resident Kemp’s Ambassador Lennie. I’ve notice that Lennie has been furiously writing in his journal, and I’m really curious about what he’s putting in there. But every time I try to get a peek at it he tucks it under his flippers and refuses to hand it over.
Our record crowds are continuing and lines can be long. Come prepared with umbrellas and sunscreen, and if you live locally Saturday is the best day to visit. We have plenty of stock in our gift shop so don’t leave without checking out the new T-shirt colors and other items exclusive to our hospital.
This is our final summer in our current location, behind the blue water tank in Topsail Beach. Please feed that big donation jar on your way out. All contributions go toward our new facility as well as fund our work at our current location. We’re staffed by volunteers and completely supported by your donations!
Turtle Talks
Our popular “Turtle Talks” is back every Wednesday, through August. This family-friendly introduction to the wonderful world of sea turtles is held at the Surf City Community Center from 3:45 – 4:45 p.m. (so you won’t get caught at the bridge). There are lots of handouts and hands-on stuff for kids and adults. It’s fun, informative and free, but of course donations for our turtles and the hospital are gratefully accepted.
Questions/Comments? Contact me at: flippers@embarqmail.com with questions or comments. For an application to become a hospital volunteer or to be added to our future e-newsletter contact me at: flippers@att.net.
(Karen Sota is a volunteer at the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center, a.k.a. the turtle hospital. For more information on the sea turtle hospital go to www.seaturtehospital.org.)
Till next time....
Tight lines
Johnny and Donna
Sneads Ferry Shrimp Festival celebrates the community’s roots
FaceBook Fishing Topsail Group
Topsail Area Charter Boats
2009 NC Recreational Coastal Waters Guide
Re-Print from Topsail Voice, August 11,2010. Click Here to view the original article.
Festivals can be found all over nation, celebrating everything from apples to zoos but here in the greater Topsail area, many of our festivals reflect area history and traditions.
The Sneads Ferry Shrimp Festival is no exception.
The festival, planned for this weekend, celebrates the proud tradition of commercial fishing and the village of Sneads Ferry.
First established in the 1700s as a fishing and farming community, Sneads Ferry’s working waterfront was, and still is today, vital to the community’s economy.
Until recently the community depended on the fishing industry which includes trawling, shrimping, clamming, crabbing as the key economic driver supporting families and other businesses in the area. The fishing industry is still and important part, but sadly a declining part, of the unique economy of the community.
In the past 50 years many coastal towns and villages have succumbed to the economic challenges posed by developments and rapid change, which in turn closed or, at best, reduced the commercial fishing industry to only small players in the economic picture.
Sneads Ferry has resisted these changes by remaining an unincorporated community and protecting as much as possible of its heritage and fishing traditions.
But in spite of these efforts, the community is still feeling the effects of its larger neighbors, Wilmington and Jacksonville. The nearby developments, increased restrictive regulations on the industry, and a declining economy are taking a toll on both the community and its fishing base.
The annual shrimp festival is one way the community, its residents and businesses continue to remember and promote the very traditions and industry that is such a vital part of the community’s history.
The longtime families of the area revere the histories and traditions of the fishing village while new arrivals to community learn to appreciate the community and its unique heritage.
This weekend residents and visitors will have the opportunity to remember, reflect and celebrate a unique community and the proud fishing tradition that make Sneads Ferry the very special community that it is.
The Shrimp Festival is a celebration of a coastal fishing community that continues to proudly remember its roots.
Till next time....
Tight lines!
Johnny
Topsail Area Charter Boats
2009 NC Recreational Coastal Waters Guide
Re-Print from Topsail Voice, August 11,2010. Click Here to view the original article.
TOPSAIL VOICE
Festivals can be found all over nation, celebrating everything from apples to zoos but here in the greater Topsail area, many of our festivals reflect area history and traditions.
The Sneads Ferry Shrimp Festival is no exception.
The festival, planned for this weekend, celebrates the proud tradition of commercial fishing and the village of Sneads Ferry.
First established in the 1700s as a fishing and farming community, Sneads Ferry’s working waterfront was, and still is today, vital to the community’s economy.
Until recently the community depended on the fishing industry which includes trawling, shrimping, clamming, crabbing as the key economic driver supporting families and other businesses in the area. The fishing industry is still and important part, but sadly a declining part, of the unique economy of the community.
In the past 50 years many coastal towns and villages have succumbed to the economic challenges posed by developments and rapid change, which in turn closed or, at best, reduced the commercial fishing industry to only small players in the economic picture.
Sneads Ferry has resisted these changes by remaining an unincorporated community and protecting as much as possible of its heritage and fishing traditions.
But in spite of these efforts, the community is still feeling the effects of its larger neighbors, Wilmington and Jacksonville. The nearby developments, increased restrictive regulations on the industry, and a declining economy are taking a toll on both the community and its fishing base.
The annual shrimp festival is one way the community, its residents and businesses continue to remember and promote the very traditions and industry that is such a vital part of the community’s history.
The longtime families of the area revere the histories and traditions of the fishing village while new arrivals to community learn to appreciate the community and its unique heritage.
This weekend residents and visitors will have the opportunity to remember, reflect and celebrate a unique community and the proud fishing tradition that make Sneads Ferry the very special community that it is.
The Shrimp Festival is a celebration of a coastal fishing community that continues to proudly remember its roots.
Till next time....
Tight lines!
Johnny
Marine rescues drowning teen in North Topsail Beach
FaceBook Fishing Topsail Group
Topsail Area Charter Boats
2009 NC Recreational Coastal Waters Guide
This article is a reprint from the Topsail Voice newspaper on August 11,2010. Read the original article in the Topsail Voice newspaper, click here.
TOPSAIL VOICE
By Connie Pletl
Published: Wednesday, August 11, 2010 9:40 AM EDT
N. TOPSAIL BEACH – A teenager struggling in the water near an ocean pier was rescued by a US Marine last week.
Sergeant Stephan A. Gladding, 25, who is with Battalion Landing Team 3/8, 26th MEU, was at the beach in the early afternoon on Aug. 7.
He’d brought his surfboard and intended to do some surfing when he noticed someone struggling to stay above water.
A teenager had drifted in about 200 yards from the shore and approximately 100 yards from the far end of the Seaview Pier.
Gladding jumped on his surfboard and paddled out to retrieve the teenager.
“I saw him and didn’t see any boats coming or anyone else jumping in so I just started paddling as hard and as fast as I could,” Gladding said. “I thought I was his only hope.”
Gladding put the teen on his surfboard and brought him back to shore where authorities from North Topsail Beach took over.
Gladding noted that there were strong rip currents that day.
Rip current warnings had been issued by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration because of the lunar tides and the remnants of Tropical Storm Colin.
Gladding is stationed at U.S. Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune. His hometown is Portland, Michigan.
Till next time....
Tight lines!
Johnny
Topsail Area Charter Boats
2009 NC Recreational Coastal Waters Guide
This article is a reprint from the Topsail Voice newspaper on August 11,2010. Read the original article in the Topsail Voice newspaper, click here.
TOPSAIL VOICE
By Connie Pletl
Published: Wednesday, August 11, 2010 9:40 AM EDT
N. TOPSAIL BEACH – A teenager struggling in the water near an ocean pier was rescued by a US Marine last week.
Sergeant Stephan A. Gladding, 25, who is with Battalion Landing Team 3/8, 26th MEU, was at the beach in the early afternoon on Aug. 7.
He’d brought his surfboard and intended to do some surfing when he noticed someone struggling to stay above water.
A teenager had drifted in about 200 yards from the shore and approximately 100 yards from the far end of the Seaview Pier.
Gladding jumped on his surfboard and paddled out to retrieve the teenager.
“I saw him and didn’t see any boats coming or anyone else jumping in so I just started paddling as hard and as fast as I could,” Gladding said. “I thought I was his only hope.”
Gladding put the teen on his surfboard and brought him back to shore where authorities from North Topsail Beach took over.
Gladding noted that there were strong rip currents that day.
Rip current warnings had been issued by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration because of the lunar tides and the remnants of Tropical Storm Colin.
Gladding is stationed at U.S. Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune. His hometown is Portland, Michigan.
Till next time....
Tight lines!
Johnny
Surf City revises alcohol ordinance
FaceBook Fishing Topsail Group
Topsail Area Charter Boats
2009 NC Recreational Coastal Waters Guide
This article is a reprint from the Topsail Voice, Wednesday, August 11, 2010 To view the original article, click on the "Topsail Voice" link above.
TOPSAIL VOICE
By Connie Pletl
Published: Wednesday, August 11, 2010 9:40 AM EDT
SURF CITY – If you want to have a beer on the beach in Surf City, you can, as long as you abide by a few rules.
Seeking to clarify the ordinances pertaining to public alcohol consumption and possession, town leaders held a public hearing on the matter on Aug. 4.
Town Manager Michael Moore said the town statute regarding alcoholic beverage possession and consumption actually prohibited it in public areas, even on the beach.
In chapter 12 – Offenses and Miscellaneous Provisions — of the town code Section 12-11 states that it is illegal for people to consume alcohol in public areas in town.
“…it shall be unlawful for any person to consume or possess an open container of malt beverage or fortified wine on any street, sidewalk, or alley of the town…included but not limited to public parks, public beach and sound access, and municipal buildings and grounds,” states the chapter in part.
Moore said after he had looked over the statute and discussed it with the town council; he investigated other towns to see how they handled the matter.
He then recommended that the town revise the ordinance to allow alcoholic beverages to be consumed on the beach, except in the area around the Roland Avenue beach access.
Moore said that the revised ordinance would prohibit the consumption of alcohol and the possession of open containers within 500 feet of the Roland Avenue beach access.
“What about glass containers?” asked Mayor Zander Guy.
Moore said that glass containers would continue to be prohibited on the beach.
Councilman Mike Curly asked if the town needed to include age restrictions in its ordinance.
Moore said the age limit was covered by state law.
“You still have to be at least 21,” he said.
The ordinance does allow for exceptions for special events if prior written approval is obtained from the town manager and any needed permits are received from the appropriate alcohol law enforcement agencies.
There were no public comments during the hearing.
The town council voted 5-0 to adopt the revised ordinance.
Till next time....
Tight lines!
Johnny
Topsail Area Charter Boats
2009 NC Recreational Coastal Waters Guide
This article is a reprint from the Topsail Voice, Wednesday, August 11, 2010 To view the original article, click on the "Topsail Voice" link above.
TOPSAIL VOICE
By Connie Pletl
Published: Wednesday, August 11, 2010 9:40 AM EDT
SURF CITY – If you want to have a beer on the beach in Surf City, you can, as long as you abide by a few rules.
Seeking to clarify the ordinances pertaining to public alcohol consumption and possession, town leaders held a public hearing on the matter on Aug. 4.
Town Manager Michael Moore said the town statute regarding alcoholic beverage possession and consumption actually prohibited it in public areas, even on the beach.
In chapter 12 – Offenses and Miscellaneous Provisions — of the town code Section 12-11 states that it is illegal for people to consume alcohol in public areas in town.
“…it shall be unlawful for any person to consume or possess an open container of malt beverage or fortified wine on any street, sidewalk, or alley of the town…included but not limited to public parks, public beach and sound access, and municipal buildings and grounds,” states the chapter in part.
Moore said after he had looked over the statute and discussed it with the town council; he investigated other towns to see how they handled the matter.
He then recommended that the town revise the ordinance to allow alcoholic beverages to be consumed on the beach, except in the area around the Roland Avenue beach access.
Moore said that the revised ordinance would prohibit the consumption of alcohol and the possession of open containers within 500 feet of the Roland Avenue beach access.
“What about glass containers?” asked Mayor Zander Guy.
Moore said that glass containers would continue to be prohibited on the beach.
Councilman Mike Curly asked if the town needed to include age restrictions in its ordinance.
Moore said the age limit was covered by state law.
“You still have to be at least 21,” he said.
The ordinance does allow for exceptions for special events if prior written approval is obtained from the town manager and any needed permits are received from the appropriate alcohol law enforcement agencies.
There were no public comments during the hearing.
The town council voted 5-0 to adopt the revised ordinance.
Till next time....
Tight lines!
Johnny
August 11, 2010
Topsail Fishing
FaceBook Fishing Topsail Group
Topsail Area Charter Boats
2009 NC Recreational Coastal Waters Guide
My sources say "fishing is slow!" About the only action I know of is around the bridges in the ICW. Fish with sand fleas or the small one armed crabs. I can't recall their proper name just now. Anglers are catching fat black drum and some nice sheepshead. Try live bait in the same spots for the occasional flounder.
On the piers, it's much the same with a few spanish and blues early and late, sharks, and the occasional flounder during the heat of the day, and a few spots, black drum, and sharks, skates, and sea mullets at night. The inlets are holding a few lady fish at night. Good fighters, jump like a tarpon! The Jolly Roger Pier reported a few kings, a tarpon with lots of hook-ups on the tarpon. They just can't get them to the pier.
Most of the charters are catching fish, the captains all have their "favorite honey holes" where they can locate and entice the fish to bite. Charters are catching reds, flounder, and the occasional speckled trout.
The weather is great! So come on down and enjoy a day of fishing, just don't be too disappointed if the bite is slow. There are plenty of sand crabs, (mole crabs) to be found at the tide line in the surf.
Construction update: CVS Pharmacy construction is moving along. Looks like they are about ready to start the walls. Just off Hwy 210 and Hwy 17 intersection near Lowes Hardware, the new Harris Teeter Supermarket has hit a growth spurt. The walls are just about up.
If you haven't checked out the new Italian restaurant in the shopping center at Hwy 210 / Hwy 50, go enjoy a meal. My friend "Yogi" is the night chef and we all know how great his cooking is. Give them a try, tell them "Fishin' Topsail" sent you.
Till next time....
Tight lines!
Johnny
Topsail Area Charter Boats
2009 NC Recreational Coastal Waters Guide
My sources say "fishing is slow!" About the only action I know of is around the bridges in the ICW. Fish with sand fleas or the small one armed crabs. I can't recall their proper name just now. Anglers are catching fat black drum and some nice sheepshead. Try live bait in the same spots for the occasional flounder.
On the piers, it's much the same with a few spanish and blues early and late, sharks, and the occasional flounder during the heat of the day, and a few spots, black drum, and sharks, skates, and sea mullets at night. The inlets are holding a few lady fish at night. Good fighters, jump like a tarpon! The Jolly Roger Pier reported a few kings, a tarpon with lots of hook-ups on the tarpon. They just can't get them to the pier.
Most of the charters are catching fish, the captains all have their "favorite honey holes" where they can locate and entice the fish to bite. Charters are catching reds, flounder, and the occasional speckled trout.
The weather is great! So come on down and enjoy a day of fishing, just don't be too disappointed if the bite is slow. There are plenty of sand crabs, (mole crabs) to be found at the tide line in the surf.
Construction update: CVS Pharmacy construction is moving along. Looks like they are about ready to start the walls. Just off Hwy 210 and Hwy 17 intersection near Lowes Hardware, the new Harris Teeter Supermarket has hit a growth spurt. The walls are just about up.
If you haven't checked out the new Italian restaurant in the shopping center at Hwy 210 / Hwy 50, go enjoy a meal. My friend "Yogi" is the night chef and we all know how great his cooking is. Give them a try, tell them "Fishin' Topsail" sent you.
Till next time....
Tight lines!
Johnny
August 7, 2010
Surf City clarifies alcohol laws
Fishing Topsail Message Board
Topsail Area Charter Boats
2009 NC Recreational Coastal Waters Guide
Ok folks, I am sure you have heard the rumblings of alcohol consumption on the beach in Surf City. Here is the latest.
"quote"
By Amanda Hutcheson
Citydesk@StarNewsOnline.com
Topsail Area Charter Boats
2009 NC Recreational Coastal Waters Guide
Ok folks, I am sure you have heard the rumblings of alcohol consumption on the beach in Surf City. Here is the latest.
"quote"
By Amanda Hutcheson
Citydesk@StarNewsOnline.com
Published: Thursday, August 5, 2010 at 12:09 p.m.
Last Modified: Thursday, August 5, 2010 at 12:09 p.m.
Last Modified: Thursday, August 5, 2010 at 12:09 p.m.
Surf City's town board unanimously passed a revised ordinance Wednesday clarifying alcohol laws in the town. The new ordinance makes it illegal to consume or possess open containers of alcohol on any town street, sidewalk, alley or town property, including buildings and parks.
Alcohol will be allowed on the beach except at the Roland Avenue beach access, but glass containers are prohibited. And town officials emphasized that state laws about the minimum drinking age of 21 still apply.
"end quote"
Want more on this story? Click Here
Fishing News:
Capt. Rob at Jolly Roger Pier reports " We have seen normal summertime fishing the last several days. A few spots and mullet on bloodworms at night, a decent number of large puppy drum, and blues/Spanish when the water is clear. They are still seeing/hooking a few tarpon off the end, and there was a nice king lost earlier this week. The wind is supposed to shift to the East tomorrow and remain there for several days. That should clear the water and pack more bait in on the beach". - Capt. Rob Orr
One other note, lady fish are thick around the Surf City turning bridge. These fish are fun to catch, jumping several times like a tarpon! Go give 'em a try!
Till next time....
tight lines!
Johnny
August 6, 2010
Fishing in the Cape Fear Region
Cape Fear Region red drum fishing is starting to make a turn around the fish are starting back to bite a little more aggressively,finding the fish requires quite a bit of local knowledge to be succesfull.
Capt.Mike Dennis out of Carolina Beach,N.C. has been succesful in finding fish in the Bald Head Island area,running inshore charters in the backwaters.
Capt.Mike Dennis out of Carolina Beach,N.C. has been succesful in finding fish in the Bald Head Island area,running inshore charters in the backwaters.
Light tackle spinning fishing for red drum,is a alot of fun,using live bait tactics,seems to be the best way entice a bite.
Capt.Mike Dennis
Cape Fear Guide
Capt.Mike@charter.net
www.capefear-guide.com
Capt.Mike Dennis
Cape Fear Guide
Capt.Mike@charter.net
www.capefear-guide.com
910-619-0928
August 4, 2010
Topsail Island Fishing
Fishing Topsail Message Board
Topsail Area Charter Boats
2009 NC Recreational Coastal Waters Guide
Weather looking great. Slight chance of some tropical weather in the near future, more as we get the info. CVS Pharmacy is back in the construction stage. The walls are going up now. Harris Teeter grocery store is scheduled to open in spring 2011. Walls are almost up. Our area is growing fast.
Now the fishing reports.
Sea View Pier: Still no report directly from Sea View Pier, I must have the wrong number, can't get anyone to answer the phone. If you know anything bout fishing at Sea View, please post it for our members. I have reports of a few Spots and Mullet. Three Tarpon and a few nice Spanish.
Surf City Pier report: Aug 3rd ...."finally a few fish...caught a 36 lb king Sunday....a 24 lb king on Monday..... We have seen several spanish early morning, a few spade fish and pompano.....seeing a few spots and a few of mullets, mostly at night." (Thanks Vinita)
Jolly Roger Inn and Pier: Josh Sloop caught this 5 1/2 lb. Speckled Trout on Saturday. There have been lots of tarpon hook-ups and several landings in the last week to ten days. Kings are biting decent also. Also some big spanish hitting live bait. There were quite a few puppy drum caught, also had one 5 lb. speckled trout! Nice! Fishermen also reported seeing a big school of black drum cruising around under the pier. They managed to a few of the black drum, but most of them were hesitant to bite due to the clear water. Also reported were a few flounder, spots, mullet, and bluefish.
Surf report: Lots of sharks, big ones at night, especially near the inlets. Flounder and some big red drum are hitting live finger mullets, some big speckled trout are eating live shrimp fished under a popping cork. Not many reports of specks hitting grubs or mirro-lures right now, but it won't be long. Water is still a bit warm for schooling specks. Water is full of black drum, but they aren't biting great, I am guessing because of the clear water.
Offshore report: Water temps are still in the mid 80's. Winds N-NE at 10 to 15 mph. Seas 1 to 2 feet. Looks pretty good to me for offshore fishing. But I am not a weather man, so check it out for yourself. I have had reports of lots of mahi at 20 miles and further, some kings and sharks. There have been some big sharks near the inlet, along with some blues and spanish. There have been reports of lots of reds on the ocean side of Lee Island. Live bait and gold spoons getting the best results.
Typical summertime fishing, not great, but better than almost anything else I can think of doing. Come on down and get your limits! Bring plenty of water to drink. It's HOT at Topsail Island.
Some Surf City news:
Check out the Movie in the Park and Concert in the Park schedule. Some really good movies for the kids and some great bands ready to play. Events are every Saturday night at the Surf City Soundside Park, just across the swing bridge.
Saturday, August 14 Concert: Pamlico Joe and Clean Water Flow. A nice program concerning our resources. Get details about these events at the Town of Surf City website; http://surfcity.govoffice.com/
Topsail Area Charter Boats
2009 NC Recreational Coastal Waters Guide
Weather looking great. Slight chance of some tropical weather in the near future, more as we get the info. CVS Pharmacy is back in the construction stage. The walls are going up now. Harris Teeter grocery store is scheduled to open in spring 2011. Walls are almost up. Our area is growing fast.
Now the fishing reports.
Sea View Pier: Still no report directly from Sea View Pier, I must have the wrong number, can't get anyone to answer the phone. If you know anything bout fishing at Sea View, please post it for our members. I have reports of a few Spots and Mullet. Three Tarpon and a few nice Spanish.
Surf City Pier report: Aug 3rd ...."finally a few fish...caught a 36 lb king Sunday....a 24 lb king on Monday..... We have seen several spanish early morning, a few spade fish and pompano.....seeing a few spots and a few of mullets, mostly at night." (Thanks Vinita)
Jolly Roger Inn and Pier: Josh Sloop caught this 5 1/2 lb. Speckled Trout on Saturday. There have been lots of tarpon hook-ups and several landings in the last week to ten days. Kings are biting decent also. Also some big spanish hitting live bait. There were quite a few puppy drum caught, also had one 5 lb. speckled trout! Nice! Fishermen also reported seeing a big school of black drum cruising around under the pier. They managed to a few of the black drum, but most of them were hesitant to bite due to the clear water. Also reported were a few flounder, spots, mullet, and bluefish.
Surf report: Lots of sharks, big ones at night, especially near the inlets. Flounder and some big red drum are hitting live finger mullets, some big speckled trout are eating live shrimp fished under a popping cork. Not many reports of specks hitting grubs or mirro-lures right now, but it won't be long. Water is still a bit warm for schooling specks. Water is full of black drum, but they aren't biting great, I am guessing because of the clear water.
Offshore report: Water temps are still in the mid 80's. Winds N-NE at 10 to 15 mph. Seas 1 to 2 feet. Looks pretty good to me for offshore fishing. But I am not a weather man, so check it out for yourself. I have had reports of lots of mahi at 20 miles and further, some kings and sharks. There have been some big sharks near the inlet, along with some blues and spanish. There have been reports of lots of reds on the ocean side of Lee Island. Live bait and gold spoons getting the best results.
Typical summertime fishing, not great, but better than almost anything else I can think of doing. Come on down and get your limits! Bring plenty of water to drink. It's HOT at Topsail Island.
Some Surf City news:
Check out the Movie in the Park and Concert in the Park schedule. Some really good movies for the kids and some great bands ready to play. Events are every Saturday night at the Surf City Soundside Park, just across the swing bridge.
Saturday, August 7 Movie: Astro Boy - Rated PG
Saturday, August 14 Concert: Pamlico Joe and Clean Water Flow. A nice program concerning our resources. Get details about these events at the Town of Surf City website; http://surfcity.govoffice.com/
Saturday, August 21 Movie: G Force - rated PG
Saturday, August 28 Concert: Sea Pans
Saturday, September 4 Movie - Up - rated PG
That's all for now.
Till next time....
Tight lines!
Johnny
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