Fall · NOVEMBER

What's biting in November on the Outer Banks?

November keeps the drum run going and adds striped bass to the inlets, with trout in the sound and bluefish still on the beach.

Where to fish itWhat to use today

On the line this November

  • Prime
  • Running

Prime marks a peak worth planning around, while running marks a fish simply on the scene.

Species running in November, by tier
CatchHow it fishes
Red DrumThe run is onPrime
Sea MulletThe tail endRunning
BluefishFall runPrime
Speckled TroutThe tail endRunning
Black DrumThe tail endRunning
Striped bassWinter fish. Cut bait on the bottom near an inlet or a sound hole.Running
FlounderIn the mix this month.Running

How to fish November

Short, practical reminders to skim before rigging up.

  1. Drum are still on the points early in the month. Fish the falling tide.

  2. Striped bass show at the inlets as the water drops into the fifties.

  3. Fish the sound holes for trout when the ocean is blown out.

The run tapers late in the month. The striped bass season is just starting.

What goes on the hook

Fresh mullet

Fresh mullet on the bottom for drum, cut bait for the bass.

Bait basics →Pack the bag for it →

Lead with these

RED DRUM

Red Drum

The fall run at Cape Point is the best surf drum fishing on the East Coast. This is the setup that fishes it.

BLUEFISH

Bluefish

Blues will eat almost anything and fight like they mean it. Bring wire, because they cut leaders for a living.

Guides to open

BAITS

What should I put on the hook this month?

Fresh mullet is the bait of the month. The guide covers everything else on the shelf.

SINKERS

What size sinker do I need today?

Lead for Red Drum and the rest of a fall November, sized to the water.

TIDES

What tide is it right now, and does it matter?

November is fall on the Banks. See what the tide is doing right now.

Updated Oct 30, 2026