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

image: a surveyor collecting recreational fishing data.

February 09, 2026

What can 40 years of angler interviews tell us about where fish are moving?

Half of the fish species in a new study are now inhabiting different areas of the East Coast.

Image: Adult white shrimp (Litopenaeus setiferus), courtesy of NOAA.

January 24, 2026

Why does the number of shrimp in Pamlico Sound vary so much year to year?

A North Carolina Sea Grant study shows that combining shrimpers’ local ecological knowledge with traditional science leads to a clearer picture of why shrimp populations fluctuate.

image: Fishery employee feeds fish.

January 12, 2026

New Year, New Skills: Can Exercise Help Hatchery Fish Survive in the Wild?

New research suggests exercise may benefit fish.

Man holding a red drum

December 29, 2025

Does tagging affect red drum?

A new study shows that the act of tagging itself impacts growth rates — but that the effects could be temporary.

Reel Insights: Guest Posts on Fish Science

March 31, 2025

What causes bonnethead sharks to migrate?

Bonnetheads have strong preferences regarding temperature.

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.