The Outer Banks is a top fishing destination in the United States. There are many fishing piers scattered throughout the islands and beaches. The Outer Banks fishing piers provide anglers with a safe, convenient, relaxing and enjoyable way to fish the Carolina Coast. We will be discussing the Outer Banks’ fishing piers, their amenities, as well as some tips to help you have a successful fishing trip.
Directory of Fishing Piers on the Outer Banks
Nags Head Fishing Pier
The Nags Head Fishing Pier, one of the oldest and most popular fishing piers on the Outer Banks, is a very popular choice. The Nags Head Pier extends 725 feet into the Atlantic Ocean and offers both inshore and offshore fishing for the same great fish. This pier is open 24 hours a day and offers a great place for families with amenities like a snack bar or a gift shop.
Kitty Hawk Pier
Kitty Hawk Pier is located in the heart of Outer Banks and spans over 1,000ft. It offers anglers ample space to cast off and a snack bar as well as a gift shop and gift shop. The pier offers both offshore and inshore angling with a variety of top-tier fish species. The pier is open daily from 6 am in the morning to 10 pm at night.
Cape Hatteras Pier
Cape Hatteras Pier, another popular fishing pier is located on the island. The pier measures over 1,000 feet long and offers anglers plenty of space to cast off. The pier is open for both offshore and inshore angling. It also caters to night-time fisherman with 24 hour access and lots of lights.
Avon Pier
Avon Pier is a great spot for anglers to cast off from, and it’s located on North Carolina’s coast. This pier measures over 840 feet in length and offers both offshore and inshore angling. It also has plenty of amenities like a snack bar and bait shop. The pier is open daily from 6 am in the morning to 11 pm at night.
Frisco Pier
Frisco Pier is on the small island Hatteras and is one the most popular fishing piers in Outer Banks. The pier is open daily from 7am to 10pm, and offers rod rentals, bait shops, and a snack shop. Frisco Pier has a wide variety of fish species for anglers. These include flounder and mackerel that can be found inshore as well as species like tuna, billfish, and mackerel that can be found offshore.
Tips for fishing piers on the Outer Banks
Get the Right Gear
When fishing in the Outer Banks, the first thing you should remember is to have the right gear. There is usually a bait and lure shop near the pier. However, it is a good idea to have your own equipment so you don’t have any problems during your fishing session. You can also prepare for a wide variety of species with the right gear, such as billfish and mackerel.
Check the Weather Conditions
The Outer Banks can experience a variety of weather conditions, including strong winds and tropical storms. Before you go out on the pier, make sure to check the weather forecast. You should be prepared for any weather conditions that could affect fish, so make sure you have the right gear.
Remember the bait
Baitfish are the best attractors for many species in the Outer Banks. Live bait is a must for fishing. The local bait and tackle shops often stock a wide variety of live bait, including shrimp, mullet, and pinfish. Artificial baits like jigs or flukes are also very popular in the Outer Banks.
Frequently Asked Questions about Fishing Piers on the Outer Banks
Q: Which fishing species can be targeted at the Outer Banks fishing Piers?
A: Outer Banks fishing platforms offer a wide variety of inshore and offshore species. Spots, flounder, and Kingfish are all common game fish in the inshore. Common game fish found offshore include mackerel, billfish, tuna, and mackerel.
Q: Can bait and tackle shops be found near fishing piers on the Outer Banks
A: Yes, many Outer Banks fishing spots have bait and tackle shops nearby. You don’t have to bring your own equipment, but it is a good idea to have some in case you need it.
Q: Are the Outer Banks fishing docks open 24 hours a day?
A: Most Outer Banks fishing and piers are open daily from 6am to 11pm. Some piers, like Cape Hatteras Pier, offer 24-hour access.
Q: Can children fish from the Outer Banks piers?
A: Yes, children can fish from the Outer Banks fishing docks provided they are supervised by an adult. Many piers have amenities like a snack bar or gift shop, making them a great place for families.
Q: Do fishing licenses need to be obtained in order to fish from Outer Banks fishing docks?
A: Yes. To fish from the Outer Banks fishing docks, you will need a fishing licence. The North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries can issue licenses.
Q: Is summer the best time to fish from Outer Banks fishing Piers?
A: The summer months are the busiest for Outer Banks fishing platforms, with many species coming closer to shore. Outer Banks fishing platforms can be productive all year, with different species available at different times. This includes speckled trout, flounder, and mackerel in winter, and spots, cobia, and kingfish in the spring.
Q: What should you bring to fish from the Outer Banks fishing docks?
A: When fishing from the Outer Banks fishing docks, you should have a variety of tackle and lures. You also need to have a selection live bait. It is also important to bring enough water and the right clothing.
