Bear Island 11/5

[flyakker]

Had the day off on Monday 11/5 and at 0'dark-thirty headed to Swansboro/Bear Island area with a paddling buddy for a day trip and some fishing in the marshes. Launched at Shell Rock to some not-too-crowded water. Light winds and favorable tide flows made an easy trip to the island and back. Water was very clear and much colder than just a few weeks ago when I was in this same area. Did not see too many bait fish in the tidal creeks and marshes on the way over, but there was more bait immediately behind the island. I caught three flounder...one was an 18" keeper (dinner Tuesday night) and the other two were only 12-13" throw backs. Also caught two lizard fish and had lots of strong taps. We also walked to the ocean side of the island and saw two separate feeding frenzies just off shore with birds diving in from all directions. For a split second I had the foolish idea that maybe I could launch the yak in the surf and get in on the action, but then I regained my senses and accepted the fact that I was stuck being a spectator on that one.