As of October 26, 2024, the fishing scene in the Atlantic Ocean off North Carolina, particularly around Morehead and Atlantic Beach, is buzzing with activity. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

### Conditions
The sunrise today is at 7:33 AM, and sunset will be at 6:14 PM. Tides are looking favorable, with a high tide at 9:15 AM and a low tide at 3:15 PM. The water temperature is slowly dropping, currently at around 72 degrees Fahrenheit, which is ideal for many species.

### Weather
The weather forecast indicates a partly cloudy day with a gentle breeze, making it perfect for both inshore and nearshore fishing. There's a slight chance of scattered showers, but it shouldn't dampen your fishing plans.

### Fish Activity
Yesterday saw a surge in fish activity across various species. The nearshore action has been phenomenal, with false albacore fishing being particularly strong. These fish are being found from the east side of Cape Lookout south past Atlantic Beach and outside Bogue Inlet. Smaller jigs like Hogy Epoxy Minnows and Big Nic Spanish Candies are working well for both false albacore and Spanish mackerel, which are starting to show up in better numbers.

Inshore, speckled trout are becoming a good target, especially in the backs of creeks and areas off the Newport and North rivers. Live shrimp are the go-to bait for these trout, as well as for black drum staged around shell bottoms and structure. Red drum, including some citation-class fish, are being caught in the evening by those running up Adams Creek into the Neuse River.

King mackerel are starting to come in closer to the beach, with fish in the 15-20 pound class being caught right outside the inlet using natural and live baits, as well as spoons. Bluefish, some in the 8-14 pound class, are hanging around the shoals off Cape Lookout and nearshore structure.

### Best Lures and Bait
For nearshore fishing, small jigs like Hogy Epoxy Minnows and Big Nic Spanish Candies are highly effective for false albacore and Spanish mackerel. Inshore, live shrimp are the top choice for speckled trout, black drum, and red drum. For king mackerel, natural and live baits along with spoons are working well.

### Hot Spots
- **Cape Lookout**: This area is teeming with false albacore and Spanish mackerel. Look for surface-feeding frenzies to target these species.
- **Adams Creek and the Neuse River**: These areas are producing slot-sized red drum, black drum, and sheepshead. Live shrimp and cut baits are the way to go here.
- **Bogue Inlet**: This spot is seeing a mix of bluefish, Spanish mackerel, and pompano. The inlet's structure is also attracting sheepshead and puppy drum.

With these conditions and tips, you're set for a productive and enjoyable day of fishing in the Atlantic Ocean off North Carolina. Good luck on the water