COVER
Big red drum will be showing up around nearshore reefs this month. Deer hunters should expect another great season in North Carolina this fall. Deer photo by Tommy Kirkland.

FEATURES
2012 Deer Forecast
North Carolina sportsmen have many choices when it comes to deer hunting. Here are some of the state’s hottest whitetail hotspots.
By Craig Holt

Lake of the Month: Lake Hickory
This foothills reservoir is home to plenty of stripers that will bite even in August. Here are the hows and wheres.
By Dan Kibler

5-Alarm Action
The heat of summer is no time to sit at home: Head to the wrecks and reefs off Carolina Beach for hot action on big drum.
By Chris Burrows

Whole Lot of Shakin’ Goin’ On
The shaky head has made its mark on bass fishermen at High Rock and other Yadkin River reservoirs.
By Tony Garitta

Black Bass Blast
Morehead City fishermen have plenty of great black sea bass ‘turf’ within a short ride of port.
By Mike Marsh

Cool Runnings
Finding cooler water can lead to some hot August striper fishing on these North Carolina lakes.
By Phillip Gentry

Fly-ing Through Saltwater
Improvements in equipment have helped put fly-fishing on the map for saltwater fishermen, especially those targeting North Carolina waters. Learn the basics here.
By Tim Mead

NEWS BREAKERS
Trawling bycatch study raises red flag

COLUMNS
Backlashes By Craig Holt
Line Scores from the Livewell By Tony Garitta
Lunker Lines By David Fritts
Cooking on the Wild Side By Capt. Jerry Dilsaver & Ty Conti
Greener Pastures By Jeff Burlson
High Tides By Jerry Dilsaver
Head for the Mountains By Robert Satterwhite