Pamlico River - Pamlico, NC Fishing Report on 29th Apr, 2025

The Pamlico River is seeing a surge in fishing activity as spring weather settles in across eastern North Carolina. Rising water temperatures and increased baitfish movement have kicked off strong action for both inshore and freshwater species. With mild conditions and active feeding patterns, anglers can expect productive days on the water right now.

Striped bass (rockfish) are the top target this week. Schools are staging near bridges, pilings, and deep channels around Washington and upstream toward the Tar River junction. Anglers are hooking up using topwater lures in low-light conditions and soft plastics on jig heads during the day. A mix of keeper and slot-sized fish are being caught regularly.

Speckled trout are showing up near grassy flats, creek mouths, and oyster beds. The bite is best on calm mornings using soft plastics like paddle tails and twitch baits. As water temps rise into the mid-60s, trout activity is expected to improve even more, especially in the mouths of tributary creeks.

More Bites to Target Catfish are steady in deeper holes and muddy flats, especially in the evenings. Fresh cut bait and stink bait are reliable producers. Largemouth bass can be found along the western edges of the river, especially near submerged wood and marshy banks. Spinnerbaits, jigs, and soft creature baits are getting attention.

What’s Hot This Week Striped Bass: Active near bridges and current breaks; topwaters and swimbaits working best.

Speckled Trout: Holding near grassy shorelines; soft plastics and suspending twitch baits are key.

Catfish: Strong bite on fresh cut bait in deeper holes and near drop-offs.

Largemouth Bass: Feeding along edges and cover; target with jigs and crankbaits.

With stable weather ahead, now is a great time to explore the productive waters of the Pamlico River. Whether you're chasing rockfish or scouting quiet backwaters for bass and trout, conditions are aligning for excellent spring fishing in North Carolina.