Fishing Hatteras in March?

[AWGunS]

My wife will be in Italy for a few weeks at the end of March (mar 17- april 1). Since I am stuck working, and she is off to a Villa in Tuscany, i am going to take a few days and go off fishing. I would like to come down to Hatteras for a few days, But I am unsure of the fishing during this time.

What could I possily hook during the last 2 weeks of march? Surf or pier, it doesn't matter. I do not have a surf set up yet-and since I mentioned it, I am looking for suggestions for a surf rod and reel, for less than $200. Looking for a 2 piece rod, and a good saltwater spinning reel. I am thinking a minimum of 10' for the rod? Any sugggestions would be helpful.

Thanks,
A smith

[NTKG]

you can catch a cold!!!!

not too much... but depending on temperatures you could be looking at specks and pups. last year we did well on pups around that time. but bring some waders!

[AWGunS]

Forgot to ask about ATV's. My wife has a Mercury Mariner, All wheel drive, but only engages when it senses wheel slippage. I am abit hesitant to take that onto the beach. I do have an ATV, an was wondering if you can take the ATV onto the beach, or is it passenger vehicles only?

[DERFM]

no ATV's on hatteras , thank god !!

[Wheatland_Whilly]

no ATV's on hatteras , thank god !!

you can take a licensed atv on the beach assuming it has current inspection, tags, insurance, factory air, etc

[Drumdum]

Can be good for pups and trout as NTKG said,or could be some seamullet and blowtoads there.. Water temps and wind direction that time of yr are a more important factor than about any time of yr... Drum and striper have been caught that time of yr as well,all dependent on water temp..

No atv's,fishing license will now be required starting Jan..

I'd suggest a nine ft Tica spinning rod,with something like a 3500 series reel...

[AWGunS]

Thanks for the input. If there is a chance I will catch SOMETHING, I am coming down.

Don't know about taking the wifes Mariner on the beach though. Looks like I might be hoofing it up and down the shore. I don't have waders either, so I will have to practice long casting. At least the snow here will cushion my tackle....;)

Thanks for the rod recommendation. I can pick up a 9' Tica rod and reel for under $100. The wife would be happy with that. Even leaves enough for some tackle and line.

A Smith