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a man fishes from the edge of the beach next to a boat in New Hanover

Fish Science Simplified

Hook, Line and Science distills the latest fishery and fish-related research, delivering valuable insights and knowledge tailored for North Carolina anglers

Latest catch

image: Atlantic bluefin tuna.

February 24, 2025

Did you report that bluefin tuna you posted on Facebook?

Almost all anglers agree that self-reporting is important to the bluefin’s long-term sustainability, but…
image: blue crab.

February 17, 2025

Will North Carolina’s blue crabs go extinct?

Environmental stressors may push blue crab populations to their breaking point.
image: Johnna Brooks holding a pair of spotted seatrout.

February 10, 2025

How does winter weather affect spotted seatrout?

Water temperatures below 45°F can cause severe “cold stun events.”
image: waxing moon.

January 27, 2025

How does the moon phase affect fish?

A new study suggests when anglers might have the most lunar luck.

Reel Insights: Guest Posts on Fish Science

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Shark Spotlight: Exploring NEW RESEARCH

image: waxing moon.

January 27, 2025

How does the moon phase affect fish?

A new study suggests when anglers might have the most lunar luck.

July 31, 2023

Have Bigger Sharks Given Way to Smaller Sharks Along the North Carolina Coast?

Over the last 50 years, many shark species have trended toward smaller-sized individuals around Cape Lookout.

April 03, 2023

Are East Coast Anglers Catching Tunas, Sharks, and Billfishes Farther North?

Trends from a longstanding recreational survey can help anglers, tournaments, and communities plan for changing fisheries.