The lack of rain has made the system different than normal. Salt “wedge” is much farther up river than normal. Bait is heavier near New Bern than the mouth of the Neuse. Rockfishing bite has been great from the Ferry up river. Slot reds are scattered in the river & bluefish are prevenent. The Sound is starting to see migration reds and summer pattern expected soon. Covering water is the key.

The spring weather has the trout fired up and moving. The “cold stun” event in the New Bern to Oriental, NC area doesn’t seem to have had devestating damagage to the population. One of the most productive early spring in years for the Neuse system. Fish have moved out of the back of creeks and are heading towards the main river. Target mid main creek areas where bait is visable on surface or sonar. Productive baits have been D.O.A. 3” white/chartreuse swimbait, Paul Brown & MRs Purple/yellow or natural colors if 2’ visibility or more. Pay attention to wind direction and the sun for best bank targets to help production efficiency. Focus on points and work from banks out to mid creek. Fish seem to be moving up to feed then back to the “ditch”. Puppy Drum & Striper catches are also a solid possibilty. Vary your reteieves and presentations if bites are slow. Some days they want it a certain way.