The Newest Fishing Pier in the Outer Banks

Fishing has been part of the Outer Banks for generations, and you don't need a boat to experience some of the area's best fishing. With several fishing piers stretching along the coast from Kitty Hawk to Hatteras Island, visitors can cast a line into the Atlantic while enjoying beautiful ocean views and the laid-back atmosphere that makes the Outer Banks so special.

But with several Outer Banks fishing piers to choose from, which one is the best?

For an all-around experience that combines fishing, dining, drinks, and classic Outer Banks atmosphere, Nags Head Fishing Pier is one of the best fishing piers on the Outer Banks.

Nags Head Fishing Pier

Nags Head Fishing Pier

Located at Milepost 11.5 in Nags Head, Nags Head Fishing Pier is a historic Outer Banks landmark and a popular destination for both experienced anglers and visitors who simply want to enjoy a walk over the Atlantic.

The pier stretches approximately 750 feet into the ocean, giving anglers access to deeper water without needing a boat. The pier also offers a tackle shop with bait and fishing supplies, as well as rod rentals, making it a convenient option for visitors who don't bring their own equipment.

One of the biggest advantages of Nags Head Fishing Pier is that there's plenty to do even if you're not fishing.

What Can You Catch at Nags Head Fishing Pier?

The fish you'll find around the Outer Banks change throughout the year, so your experience can vary depending on the season.

Depending on the time of year, anglers may catch:

• Red drum
• Bluefish
• Spanish mackerel
• Spot
• Croaker
• Sea mullet
• Flounder
• Sheepshead
• King mackerel

Spring and fall can bring larger fish and migrating species, while summer is a popular time for catching species such as spot, croaker, sea mullet, and Spanish mackerel.

If you're new to pier fishing, don't worry about arriving with a truck full of equipment. Nags Head Fishing Pier has bait, tackle, and rod rentals available, and the staff can help point you in the right direction.

Do You Need a Fishing License?

One of the conveniences of fishing from Nags Head Fishing Pier is that anglers fishing from the pier are covered by the pier's blanket coastal recreational fishing license. You simply purchase your fishing pass when you arrive rather than obtaining your own license specifically for fishing from the pier.

Always check the pier's current rules and rates before your visit, as pricing and policies can change.

Nags Head Pier Has More Than Just Fishing

This is where Nags Head Fishing Pier really stands out from some of the other fishing piers on the Outer Banks.

You can spend the morning fishing, grab lunch overlooking the ocean, and finish the afternoon with a drink at the beach bar—all without leaving the pier.

Pier House Cafe

The Pier House Cafe is located at the pier and serves lunch and dinner with ocean views. 

That makes it a particularly fun option for visitors who want to turn a day of fishing into a full Outer Banks experience.

Off the Hook Beach Bar

Looking for a drink after spending some time on the water?

Nags Head Fishing Pier also features Off the Hook Beach Bar, a full-service beach bar located right on the pier. The bar serves cocktails, beer, and wine and offers outdoor seating overlooking the ocean. Live music is also part of the experience.

You don't have to fish to enjoy the bar, either. Visitors can stop by for a drink and enjoy the views without purchasing a fishing pass.

Beaches & Cream

For something a little more family-friendly, Beaches & Cream offers ice cream, shakes, coffee, and grab-and-go food. It's an easy stop for families who want to enjoy the pier without spending the day fishing.

What Makes Nags Head Fishing Pier One of the Best?

There are several excellent fishing piers on the Outer Banks, and each one has its own personality. Nags Head Fishing Pier stands out because it combines several experiences in one location.

You can:

• Fish over the Atlantic Ocean
• Rent fishing equipment and purchase bait
• Watch the sunrise or sunset
• Grab lunch or dinner
• Have a drink at the beach bar
• Listen to live music
• Get ice cream with the family
• Enjoy an oceanfront meal
• Take a walk down a classic Outer Banks fishing pier

That combination makes it a great choice for groups where not everyone wants to spend the entire day fishing.

Other Outer Banks Fishing Piers to Consider

Nags Head Fishing Pier isn't the only option. The Outer Banks is home to several other piers worth checking out.

Jennette's Pier in Nags Head is the longest and one of the most recognizable fishing piers on the Outer Banks. The 1,000-foot concrete pier is operated as part of the North Carolina Aquariums and combines fishing with educational exhibits and marine science programs.

Avalon Pier in Kill Devil Hills is another classic choice and offers fishing, bait and tackle, rod rentals, food, and a bar.

Outer Banks Fishing Pier in South Nags Head is located closer to Oregon Inlet and is home to Fish Heads Bar & Grill, making it another excellent choice for combining fishing with food and drinks.

Rodanthe Pier offers a more traditional Hatteras Island fishing experience and is a popular stop for visitors staying in the Tri-Villages.

Avon Fishing Pier is another favorite farther south on Hatteras Island and is particularly appealing to anglers looking for a classic pier-fishing experience.

Tips for Fishing the Outer Banks

If you're planning to try pier fishing during your Outer Banks vacation, a little preparation can make your day much easier.

Check the weather and surf conditions. Wind, waves, and storms can affect pier operations and fishing conditions.

Ask what's biting. One of the advantages of fishing from a staffed pier is having access to local knowledge. Stop by the tackle shop and ask what fish are being caught and what bait or rig is working.

Dress for the conditions. Even on a warm summer day, it can be cooler and windier at the end of a pier. Bring sunscreen, water, and layers when necessary.

Go early or later in the day. Sunrise and sunset can be beautiful times to fish, and early mornings can be more comfortable during the heat of summer.

Know the fishing regulations. Size limits, seasons, and possession limits vary by species. Check current North Carolina regulations before keeping your catch.

So, What Is the Best Fishing Pier on the Outer Banks?

If you're looking for the best fishing pier in the Outer Banks based on the overall experience, Nags Head Fishing Pier is hard to beat. It offers everything you'd expect from a classic Outer Banks fishing pier—ocean fishing, bait and tackle, rod rentals, and beautiful Atlantic views—while also giving visitors plenty to do after they put their fishing rod away.

With the Pier House Cafe, Off the Hook Beach Bar, and Beaches & Cream all located at the pier, it's easy to turn a few hours of fishing into an entire beachside outing.

Whether you're an experienced angler hoping to catch your next big fish or a family looking for a fun way to experience the Atlantic, Nags Head Fishing Pier is worth adding to your Outer Banks itinerary.

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