FISHING THE BEAUFORT AREA IN NOVEMBER

[Matt]

Myself and a friend are planning a trip to the beaufort are the first week in November. Our goal was to chase some football sized albacore around, and this was the only week we could both come down to do it. Is this a good time of year for the Albacore in this area? What other species will be around? Weather? Rod & Reel size? Is their a better area than Beaufort at this time? And anything else anyone has to offer is greatly appreciated. I know some of you have better things to do than to respond, but those who do, THANK YOU.

[lollygagger]

Matt,

I am sure some of the local guides will answer your questions, but just in case the fishing is really hot, I will tell you how to help yourself. First off, the alberts are there now, but up and down. There already have been some banner days. Last weekend was a wash from what i hear, though. Blues are everywhere, puppy drum are inside and feeding heavy, spots are thick, spanish are still here, and others show up from time to time. Check out the following sites for up to date info:

www.reel-time.com...check tomorrow, the new fishing report should be up.
www.wmi.org...saltwater home page, then fishing reports. Just read all of the NC ones, it will give you a rough idea of what everyone is catching. Also, you can check out the saltwater flyfishing page, some people post specific reports of the blitz there.
www.captjoes.com...Last but not least. If anyone has his finger on the pulse of the cape, its Capt Joe. There are fishing reports posted there from time to time, and if they are not updated, give them a call (the number is on his site). Be sure to reward him with your business if you get the chance while down there, he is very helpful on this board.

As far as weather, its like throwing a dart blindfolded. Sometimes, smooth glassy days where the fish are everywhre, then again, on on-shore wind can make everything a frothy mess.

Rod/reel: a 10 weight is not too big for these fish. You could maybe sneak by with an 8 weight if you are GOOD. 9 or 10 weight is ideal, though. If you dont have a good drag on your reel, you could leave heart-broken.

Beaufort is as good an area as any, but it can get pretty crowded. Remember, be courteous, and those big ships coming in and out of there should get the right of way.

good luck

[captjoe]

Hi Matt,
The first week in November is one of the best weeks that you could chose to come down for the albacore. The Beaufort Inlet area is really hot this time of year, and there is not another place on the east coast that you could possibly chose that would be a better place for the Albies other than the Beaufort Cape Lookout area. Bring a 10 weight rod and a reel that will hold 200 yards of 20 lb. backing and as very good drag system with a weight forward intermediate and a 400 grain full sinking line.

Capt Joe