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The New Surf Angler

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Summer is here and what better way to start a vacation than by learning to surf fish on the Outer Banks. We have talked about this topic many time and since the weather is beautiful and the fish are biting, what better way to start a new activity.

Fishing on the surf is the easiest to learn and enjoyable for the entire family. And now that you are here, why not give it a try. And it can be fun for the entire family.

All you need is a simple saltwater rod, reel, fishing license and fresh bait.

The first thing you want to do is research the regulations. Make sure you know the limits of any species you catch. Also, you may need a license to fish on our beaches. Licenses and rules can be obtained at any local tackle shop. Tackle shops are the newest (and experienced) angler’s best friend.

Next is selecting the spot on the beach. I always check with other local anglers or tackle shops for this information. They can usually point you in the right direction. It’s important to learn to also read the beach. It takes a little time, but we’ll worth the effort. But basically, most spots on our beach will hold fish.

Like any sport, you will need specific gear. These items will include a good medium seven foot rod and reel set up, a bottom rig, package of hooks, several different size sinkers and bait. If you don’t have your own rod and reel set up, a complete package can be purchased any tackle supply shop.

If you purchase a rod and reel from a tackle shop it will already be rigged with a line. Once ready to fish, you will attach the bottom rig to the line. You can either tie the rig directly to the line or use a snap swivel to the line first and then hook the rig to this connector. A snap swivel allows for a quick change over if you need to replace the bottom rig.

Next you want to install the hooks. Number four or number six size “J” hooks should work fine. I slide the loop end of the hook line over the bottom rig loop and slip the hook through the bottom rig loop. This creates a strong connection. A sinker is attached to the bottom of the rig. I carry different size sinkers and attach the lightest one that will allow me to hold the bottom.

Bait is the most important component. I use fresh shrimp or fish bites. Do not peel the shrimp; just place a small piece on each hook. Sometimes, I insert a small quarter inch piece of a fish bite or fish gum over the hook after the shrimp. This keeps the shrimp on the hook and prevents smaller fish from stealing the bait before a larger fish eats it. Remember – the fresher the bait – the better the chance for success.

Most bottom fish can be found within fifteen feet of our shore line. So cast just over the waves. Let the bait sit on the bottom and wait for the bite. The bite feels like a tap tap tap. When you feel the bite, just raise your rod tip and reel in. If your line moves on the bottom, change to the next size up sinker.

It’s that simple.

So the next time you have a little free time and want to learn a new hobby – take up fishing on our beach. It’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors and our beautiful beaches.

One final tip – release all fish carefully that you are not going to keep the fish so it can be caught again

Until next time – Tightlines – Capt. Tony

Wade Fishing OBX Style

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Wade fishing is a very popular method of fishing on the Outer Banks. It’s a method where the angler enters the water, stalks their target species in its own setting and is able to reach areas typically not accessible from the land.

Its popularity continues to grow on the Outer Banks because of easy access to the many shallow shorelines and sound front areas holding numerous schools of fish.  This type of fishing allows the angler to get closer to their prey by being stealth which improves their success considerably.   Although it’s not a new way to fish, it does have a very rich history both locally and nationally.

The Outer Banks offer dozens of places that favor wade fishing. Several locations to wade fish include both ends of the Basnight bridge, sound side areas on the northern region as well as many miles in the Cape Hatteras National Seashore.  Two of the best spots seem to be just south of the Oregon Inlet Marina basin and the Canadian Hole on Hatteras Island. These locations have a tapered shore line, hold plenty of fish and provide plenty of parking.

Now, these are just the obvious spots. But there are also dozens of small lakes and ponds where the sandy bottom gradually slopes the shore to give the angler an advantage at getting close to the prey.

Anglers who plan to fish in North Carolina waters must purchase a fishing license and should always obtain a copy of the local regulations and bag limits. There are some exceptions so each angler must be familiar with the rules.

It is also important to be aware of any restricted places. When fishing in the Cape Hatteras National Seashore you may need a permit to park or permission to be there. There are some areas that are off limits during certain times of the year. Watch for any signage at the entrances to these areas. If you are unfamiliar with a particular area or regulation, always contact the National Park Service for instructions.

When wade fishing your clothing should be SPF rated and include a wide brim hat, comfortable shirt and pants and they should resemble your background or the sky. Light breathable and synthetic clothing works best. Fishing in shallow water affords the fish the ability to see up at the surface and possibly recognize the angler. Remember that the color of your fishing attire must match with the surrounding areas to avoid spooking the fish.

During the cooler seasons, a good pair of hip waders will help keep you dry and warm but it is not necessary in warmer summer months however an old pair of sneakers or water shoes is a good idea.

Sun glasses with polarized lens will protect your eyes and allow you to see better in the water. Sun screen is also recommended when wade fishing to protect your skin due to the strong reflection of sun rays off the water.

Stealth and slow movements work to the advantage of the angler. Quick and erratic body movements will seem unnatural and will spook the fish. When wading into the water, shuffle your feet so as not to stir up the sediment and spook the fish. This technique also helps the angler recognize any small holes or depressions in the bottom. Stepping into a deep hole can cause one to lose their balance and spook your target.

Gear should be kept at a minimum. Carry just what you need for your outing. A simple rod and reel combination, assortment of baits, and a small shoulder bag should work great to carry any extra gear or equipment.

Conservation is good practice with any type of fishing. Harvest only the fish you plan to use and return the rest to be caught again. Always leave an area clean and free of debris.

If you are looking for something different, you might want to try wade fishing on the Outer Banks.  So grab that rod, find your spot and make those memories.

Until Next Time – Tightlines – Capt. Tony

Your Choice – Surf or Pier

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Saltwater fishing either on the surf or ocean pier on the Outer Banks can afford a family on vacation a unique opportunity to catch fish and enjoy the beautiful Outer Banks together.

Family vacation schedules are typically pre-planned months in advance, way before they unpack their car after arriving at their cottage. And typically any modification to the tight schedule can throw off the week’s plans.

But finding time to cast a line either in the ocean or off a local pier can easily fit in any busy vacationer’s schedule.

So now the biggest question, how do we choose between fishing the surf or on an ocean or even a sound side pier? The answer depends on what the angler is looking for.

First, surf fishing can get the new angler up and catching fish quickly and is a great activity for the entire family.  Just walk out on any beach, cast a line and wait for that bite. Easy right? Well pretty close.

When surf fishing, the angler should become familiar with some of the rules and regulations when fishing on the surf. The angler should start by purchasing a fishing license and having a good understanding of the various regulations that apply to this type of fishing. A local tackle shop can help with both of these items.

The next item is fishing gear. A simple rod and reel setup and fresh bait are basically the only things you need to get started.

Cast out and wait for the bite.

Of course, there are many items you can add to that list that will help you make your day successful, and really the sky’s the limit. But the key here is take your time and enjoy the day.

Many surf anglers, regardless of their experience, enjoy the solitude and nature at its finest. Then add a nice catch for dinner, completing their day.

On the other hand, fishing on an ocean pier is another great way to catch fish. Piers are safe and a fun place for the entire family.

A fishing pier gives the angler the opportunity to fish both close to shore and then hundreds of feet out along the pier into the ocean. The various depths of water combined with pilings add structure and safety for a variety of fish that make this location home.

All of our ocean piers carry a blanket fishing license which means you do not have to purchase a license to fish there.

Fishing piers have many advantages over surf fishing. On site tackle shops and professional staff can provide advice and specific techniques. Rod and reel sets with proper rigging can be rented. They have a variety of baits and can advise the angler on what’s biting and which bait to use. And all piers have a place where you can pick up a quick drink or snack.

On the piers, you will also find other anglers willing to provide advice, answer questions or lend a hand retrieving or releasing your catch.

The choice on which type of fishing to do is really up to the angler. Either type of fishing can make any family’s vacation week complete.

So regardless of whether you choose to wet a line on the surf or drop a line off one of our local ocean piers, the memories you make will last a lifetime.

Until next time – Tightlines,

Capt. Tony