Pier Fishing

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

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

Spring Fishing Fever

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The Outer Banks spring fishing season is well under way with most of our summer species already showing up in the standard venues. Atlantic and sound side piers have opened after weathering the off season. Some of our local piers sustained minor damage over the winter. They are now operating at full strength and welcoming both anglers and seeing good catches of puppy drum, blues and plenty of bottom fish.

Soundside docks and bridges are also becoming productive and will continue to get better each day once the water temperatures increase.

While there is excitement of heading out to join the other anglers, this is a good time to take a step back and review last year’s gear and bait choices, techniques and locations.

Now comes the preventive measures. After many months of dormancy, skill sets and tackle can lose their effectiveness. So now is the time to recover those techniques.

Saltwater gear has a limited shelf life regardless of your attention and care. Take time to evaluate your rod and reels. Correct any corrosion or surface dirt. Replace your line and coat the entire system with a good marine lubricant.

Check all tackle boxes. If you were an artificial bait angler, rusty hooks and connectors can fail after being exposed to saltwater over the course of a year. Plastic baits harden and lose scent when in storage. Having the correct feel and scent is a game changer.

Special techniques can lose their flair over time. Even the best professional anglers seek pointers after time off. Hire a guide or find a friend to evaluate your casting and retrieval techniques. Well worth your time.

Anglers have known for years that even certain species seem to have a memory recall. Occasionally we find what was used last year may not be effective this year. And that not only applies to techniques, but the actual baits. Never be afraid to change up or modify your gear, baits or even retrieval methods.

Scouting some of your old favorite places ensures you are prepared for any changes. It’s best to start at places that were productive last year and work your way to locations recommended by friends and tackle staff.

Tackle shops and pier staff are valuable resources when starting out each new year. Know your creel and bag limits. Know partial or full season closers. Unexpected changes can occur without much notice. Two agencies share regulation oversight on our fishery. Know all sets of rules before you go.

Many of our transitional species including some of our summer species are being landed from northern beaches of Corolla all the way to Hatteras Village and Ocracoke. So the time to go is now.

It appears that after a long winter off season, this year is beginning to mirror last year, which most consider one of the best.

First time out, anglers should pick the right tides, check water temperatures and use only the freshest baits. This will give the spring angler the best opportunity to be successful.

Until Next Time – Tightlines – Capt Tony