Kitty Hawk

Precautions – Angling in Hot Weather

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It seems hot summer temperatures have arrived earlier this year and with the increased humidity it can limit the anglers outdoor activities. So this is a good time to talk about fishing in hot weather a little earlier this year.

Fishing during the summer months can be challenging.

The air temperatures can easily reach well into the nineties with “feel like” air temps being well over a hundred. Combine these high temperatures with the occasional storms and increased humidity and you have conditions that can test even the most seasoned anglers.

But the summer season also brings in the most variety of marine species. So regardless of the conditions, many anglers will brave these high temperatures to test their luck on a local pier or the surf.

There are several choices anglers can make to stay healthy on the water and still enjoy fishing.

Sun glasses are mandatory. The reflection off the water can damage your eyes quickly.  Sunglasses should provide UV protection and block 99 to 100 percent of both UVA and UVB rays. Also, opt for wraparound sunglasses or close-fitting sunglasses with wide lenses that protect your eyes from every angle. There are many sunglasses to choose from but don’t skimp on these.

The next item is a hat. Use only a hat type that covers both your face and neck. Baseball caps are commonplace on the water but they typically only provide partial protection. Be smart and get a good full brim hat.

Also, many anglers are beginning to utilize buffs and gloves. A buff is a lightweight tube fabric used to cover your neck, face and ears. Gloves can protect your hands from not only sun but sharp edges. Some gloves allow your fingers to be exposed for handling gear. Only use types that protect you from the sun’s harmful rays.

Many tackle and specialty shops sell cooling towels. These towels can be soaked in water and wrapped around your neck and head. They are definitely worth the price but remember these towels do not have a UV rating so extra precautions are needed when using these towels.

The final component is clothing. Anglers should cover as much skin as possible by wearing long sleeves and long pants. I know, these can make you hotter but there are many styles that are “cool-infused”. If you get hot, roll your sleeves. Remember to always look for UPF 40 and UV protection.

OK so you don’t care for long clothes or cover up, then use at least a 50 SPF or higher sun screen lotion. They even make a spray – so there is never an excuse. Apply liberally before you head out and every hour. Don’t worry, you will get plenty of sun through this protection.

Finally, stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water and non-alcoholic beverages. Water or other sports drinks can help keep you cool. Alcohol can rob your system of valuable fluids. So save that for after you come out of the sun.

Remember smart anglers use some type of sun protection every time they are out fishing. Overexposure to the sun can ruin your day and your future.

Until next time – Tightlines – Capt. Tony

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

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