Winter Fishing

Not Done Fishing Yet

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Thanksgiving week has arrived on the Outer Banks and it seems it always brings out the best of our area.  The region is alive with both locals and visitors busy shopping, preparing for that big meal and enjoying those final days of our fantastic fall fishery.

The weather is still beautiful and the fall fishing continues to be exceptional. And both surf and pier fishing is still in high gear.

But as this week comes to a close on the Outer Banks so starts the closing of our ocean piers for the season. Most will close for the season by this weekend.

There are several exceptions: Jennette’s Pier, Bonner Bridge pier and the Hilton Garden Inn Kitty Hawk pier. Avalon hasn’t made the decision what their hours will be but Jennette’s pier will remain open the entire winter season with limited hours.

Now just because the piers are closing and crowds are smaller, doesn’t mean our fall fishery is over. There are plenty of fish to be caught so don’t put that rod and reel up just yet.

Most sound side bridges and docks are always a semi-protected place to fish when the weather is a little rough.

The surf is also a great place on nice days to try your luck. You may still find some scattered puppy drum, black drum, sea mullet, blues, speckled trout and possibly puffers around for several more weeks.

In December, we begin to move into our ocean winter fishery where “practice fish” such as rays and dogfish are the most common catch. But you never know what else is out there so always keep your big game gear close.

The sound side piers may also be productive over the next several weeks too with catch & release Striped bass as the primary target. These fish could possibly be around throughout the winter season. Depends on the weather. Never discount an occasional resident species over wintering in our sound waters.

Remember cold water fishing requires you to change up your approach slightly and modify your techniques a little. But if you work hard and fish smart, you can still be successful.

There are plenty of opportunities to catch fish into the cooler months so don’t put that gear away yet!!

Until next time – Tightlines – Capt. Tony

Fishing in Cold Weather

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Fishing in the winter months can present a unique set of challenges for an Outer Banks angler. Unpredictable weather systems can wreak havoc on even the most experienced angler. And scarcity of cold tolerant species can leave the angler empty-handed. 

But in spite of the cold weather conditions, there are going to be many anglers trying their luck and catching fish. So this is a good time to discuss some of the safety precautions that anglers should take when fishing in colder conditions.

Angler comfort should be the first priority. Harsh weather conditions can wreak havoc on even the most stoic angler. Checking the weather forecast before they head out can assist on the type and layers of clothing needed to stay warm and dry. Wind and rain can affect the anglers ability to find a suitable location to actually fish. Stocking hats and gloves help preserve heat. So dress accordingly. 

Know the target species. Anglers should check with a local tackle shop to determine when and where their target species was last caught. The tackle shop professionals can help the angler determine the best gear, baits and locations. In cold weather the target species may be scattered about, so narrowing down a specific area will help limit the anglers search time, where to go and limit the exposure to the elements.

In winter it’s best to fish later in the day after both the air and water temperatures have had a chance to warm up. Wintering specie’s metabolism slows in cold water and they typically wait for the right conditions to feed. So a good rule is for the angler to sleep in.

Another reason to fish later is visibility. The angler can see better and observe hazardous conditions such as slippery or uneven surfaces. Piers and bridges can become icy overnight and shorelines can be lined with high tide debris. Navigating on the surf can also be a hazard. Soft sand, drop offs and hidden objects at the water line can cause a trip hazard. 

A good rule, if fishing on the surf, is for the angler to wear waders with a belt and a life vest. Even though there is little chance of falling in, at least it can help keep them afloat and visible to rescuers. 

The angler shouldn’t burden themselves with too much gear. Only carry what is needed in a knapsack to keep arms and hands free. Taking extra rods and gear can overload them, prevent their ability to move from one place to another and when fishing on the surf or an uneven level can cause them to lose their balance, slip and fall.

Always carry the cell phone in a waterproof container and where they can reach it quickly in the event of an emergency. When fishing in the elements, emergencies can occur quickly and fast action is needed.

Anglers should never fish alone in the winter. The smart thing to do is take a buddy. That way if one angler gets into trouble they have someone who can help out. And if they are fishing alone, it’s imperative that they tell someone where they will be at all times and when they will be returning.

And finally, anglers need to know their limitations. An exhausted angler can put themselves at great risk. When its cold, maybe one more cast is not smart. Live to fish another day.

Fishing in the cold winter months can be both productive and rewarding. But only if the angler takes the proper precautions. 

So be a smart angler when fishing in cold winter months.

Until Next Time – Tightlines – Capt Tony

Winter 2025 Locations to Fish

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We have finally transitioned from the busy fall fishing season to the blustery and challenging off season. The fall migration has ended and most of the ocean piers have closed for the season. 

The surf, sound side bridges and docks and three of our ocean piers are the only option for those who can brave the weather conditions. 

Fishing season is not completely over but transitioning into a different phase. Extra caution and preparation will be needed to be successful.

In the future postings, we will be discussing how to find and catch fish in colder conditions and some of the angling offseason duties.

For now, here are the places that are still open and accessible to fish through spring: 

Avalon fishing pier – They will remain open the entire offseason and will offer free access for fishing. Their advertised hours will as follows:

  • M-T-W – 1100-700pm
  • Thurs – 1100-1000pm
  • Friday – 1100-midnight
  • Saturday – 800-midnight 
  • Sunday – 1000 – 700pm

They hope to have love music several evenings a week. Times and days subject to change.

Jennette’s fishing pier – They will remain open the entire offseason Sunday thru Saturday from 0900 to 1700

Kitty Hawk / Hilton Garden fishing Pier – should remain open for hotel guests but other anglers may be permitted to fish there. Anglers must check at the front desk – for open days, means of access and specific times.

These sound side piers, bridges and docks will continue to remain open and available all year:

  • Bonner Bridge fishing pier – open
  • Causeway pier – open
  • Daniels Bridge – south side open
  • Wildlife fishing pier – open
  • Bebop fishing Pier – open

And these Piers are now closed for the season.

  • Nags Head Fishing pier
  • Outer Banks pier is closed
  • Rodanthe pier is closed.
  • Avon pier is closed.

Remember – always fish with a buddy or tell someone where you will be fishing and when you plan to return. Also, during inclement weather, raised surfaces can become slippery. Use caution.

Until next time – Tightlines – Capt Tony