Blog

September Weather Overview & Fishing Outlook

• In early September, daily highs averaged in the mid-70s °F (around 24 °C), with nighttime lows dipping into the upper 60s °F to low-70s °F (around 21 °C) .

• This period offers mild and comfortable weather, making it ideal for fishing excursions in both inshore and offshore areas.

Recent Fishing Conditions & Catches

Offshore & Inshore Highlights

• Hatteras Harbor Marina (Hatteras Island) reports excellent catches:

  • Offshore: Dolphin (mahi-mahi), Wahoo, Blackfin Tuna; occasional Sailfish releases hatterasharbor.com.

  • Inshore: Flounder, Bluefish, Gray Trout, Cobia, Sheepshead, Spanish Mackerel, Red Drum hatterasharbor.com.

Inshore Variety Across the Region

• Captain Experiences highlights a rich fall mix of species:

  • Speckled trout, Redfish, Black Drum, and "really big Bluefish" are being caught in good numbers Captain Experiences.

• At Hatteras, backwater and inlet fishing remains strong:

  • Bluefish thriving in the sound.

  • Red drum is "picking up" with the cooler water.

  • Sheepshead doing well around wrecks and ferry basins Captain Experiences.

Daily Shore and Charter Reports

• Fishing Booker reports good action in places like Nags Head and Wanchese:

  • Species like Trout, Reds, Blues, Spanish Mackerel, Sea Bass, False Albacores, and Flounder are being caught FishingBooker+1.

• Jennette’s Pier (Nags Head) has had catches of Bluefish, Mackerel, “Pigs” (Large Tautog or similar), and Albacore in early September obxguides.com.

• Pirate’s Cove Marina exclaims, “September fishing at its finest!” noting particularly strong returns and White Marlin activity Pirate's Cove Marina.

Weather Impact

• Early September saw strong winds that kept offshore boats docked at times, though inshore boats still managed to reach productive grounds with good results hatterasharbor.com.

Summary: September 2025 Fishing Forecast — Outer Banks

Fishing ZoneConditions & Species HighlightsOffshoreDolphin, Wahoo, Blackfin Tuna, occasional Sailfish—weather permitting.InshoreFlounder, Red Drum, Bluefish, Gray & Speckled Trout, Cobia, Sheepshead, Spanish Mackerel. Reliable catches across backwaters and sounds.Pier & ShoreBluefish, Spanish Mackerel, Albacore, and “Pigs” reported at piers like Jennette’s.Best TimeframeEarly to mid-September, especially when wind subsides, offers optimal conditions.

Remember to come back for more fishing updates

You didn’t come this far to stop

Here’s what you can expect for the October 2025 fishing season in the Outer Banks:

1. Weather & Water Conditions

• Air Temperatures
  Throughout October, daytime temperatures typically range from the upper 60s to low 70s °F (~60–71 °F), with cooler nights dipping into the upper 50s °F (~58 °F).resortrealty.comTwiddy Blog

• Water Temperatures
  The ocean remains inviting at ~68–72 °F, gradually cooling from its summer highs.resortrealty.comTwiddy Blog

• Overall Conditions
  Fall brings a mild and pleasant climate—less crowded beaches, more stable weather, and excellent overall conditions for outdoor activities.Outer BanksTwiddy BlogCondé Nast Traveler

• Storm Considerations
  October is still within hurricane season. While landfalls are rare—Hurricane Matthew being the last in October (2016)—it’s wise to stay informed and consider travel insurance.resortrealty.comWikipedia

2. Fishing Outlook & Species Highlights

• Inshore & Sound Fishing:

  • Red Drum and Speckled Trout are on the bite. Some of the largest drum are captured in October.cyberangler.comReddit+1

  • Surf and Sound: Anglers report solid catches of Red Drum, Speckled Trout, and Striped Bass around bridges and inlet areas.cyberangler.comOuter Banks This Week

• Surf Fishing & Beaches:

  • Surf anglers frequently score Spanish Mackerel, Puppy Drum, Pompano, Sea Mullet, Spot, Bluefish, and Black Drum, especially near Hatteras and Nags Head.Outer Banks This Week

  • Remember that after storms, productivity often spikes—so mid-to-late October, especially following a passing front, is generally the most productive time.obxconnection.com

• Nearshore & Offshore Action:
  While some October activity shifts inshore, nearshore waters continue to deliver action with False Albacore, Spanish and King Mackerel, Ribbon Fish, and Bluefish.Outer Banks This Week

  • Notably, Oregon Inlet reports robust offshore action in October, including Yellowfin Tuna, Mahi-Mahi, and Wahoo.Oregon Inlet Fishing Center

• General Fall Trends:
  Fall is a hotspot for variety: species like Tarpon, Grouper, and Flounder may also draft through the OBX during this transitional season.Great Escapes OBX

3. Community & Angler Insights

• Forum & First-Person Reports:

  "Generally, mid to late October is the most productive, but there are too many factors to pinpoint the exact week. Pick one that is immediately after a storm!"obxconnection.com

  "I’ve caught my biggest Red Drum in Oct. Best time of the year to fish out there!"Reddit

• Destination Vibes:
  October offers relaxed beach town vibes—fewer crowds, charming festivals (like seafood celebrations), and ample outdoor fun.Twiddy BlogShoreline OBX Vacation RentalsCondé Nast Traveler

4. Summary Table: OBX Fishing in October 2025

Fishing AreaHighlightsInshore / SoundRed Drum, Speckled Trout, Striped Bass, Flounder—especially around bridges/inletsSurf / Pier FishingSpanish Mackerel, Puppy Drum, Pompano, Sea Mullet, Bluefish, Spot, Black DrumNearshore / OffshoreFalse Albacore, Spanish/King Mackerel, Yellowfin Tuna, Mahi-Mahi, WahooBest TimingMid-to-late October, especially just after a storm or cold front passesWeather ConditionsMild air temps (60–71 °F), warmish water (68–72 °F), fall is generally calm

Remember to come back for more fishing updates