2012 Rockfish Tournament

The Outer Banks Angler’s Club will be hosting their first open Rockfish Tournament on January 28th in Kill Devils Hills, North Carolina. There is a $200 fee for each boat entered into the tournament. First Place will receive $3000.00!

This is a team tournament with no limit on how many members per entry; although, there must be at least two per team. You can find more information on rules & regulations here.

There will be a Captains Meeting on January 27th at the Sea Ranch Hotel, located in Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina. The weigh-in will be held at the Broad Creek Fishing Center.

Just another reason to enjoy a 2012 Fishing Vacation. Come on down!

Southern Shores Realty

Catch it, clean it, cook it- with Jennette’s Pier

BASICS, BASICS, BASICS

CATCH IT, CLEAN IT, COOK IT!

Every Tuesday from 9 in morning until noon, Jennette’s Pier provides a very hands on fishing class. I’ve heard it has been a hit this season so I just had to check it out. It sounds very neat, and probably one of the neatest classes thus far offered at the new pier in Nags Head, North Carolina. It’s called the “catching, cleaning, and cooking class” lead by Charlie Brewer, and is a total of 3 hours. You definitely get what your money is worth out of this one!

Brewer picks a type of fishing for the day depending on the fishing conditions (even helps you with the baiting process if you are unfamiliar), teaches you everything about it with a following cleaning process after the cooler has filled up. Brewer mentioned on the website that ‘people just don’t know how & think it’s harder than it is’. I can vouch for  Brewer here (my grandfather says the same thing!) Anyways, Brewer takes the class down to the pier’s cleaning stations to give everyone a REAL experience. How hands on is that?!

It gets even better. . . when the class reaches the kitchen, I hear. Brewer starts off with his own coleslaw recipe. Teaching them how to literally cut it up without using a food processor. Moves on to breading the fish before eventually frying. Then they end with a traditional round of hush puppies. YUMMY!

This fall/winter class sounds delicious, educational, and inspiring. Fishing is a sport for the entire family. Have you considered a fishing vacation to the Outer Banks before? You’d be in for treat, as well as the family! This area is one of the hottest spots for fishing on the east coast. And now that Jennette’s Pier has reopened its doors- fishing OBX style is better than ever. Why? The pier provides educational classes, family tours, family classes, fishing classes, and other unique things like what I spoke about above. It was a complete hit last summer. How can you not love it? Come to Outer Banks for a fishing trip of a lifetime- you’ll be pleased with us & your catches.

CHEERS!

Southern Shores Realty

NC fishing possession and size limits?

North Carolina Recreational Fishing License & possession size limits

Fishing on the Outer Banks of North Carolina is a very popular sport. After keeping a close eye on the fishing tournaments, events, classes, and anglers in general, I would have to admit that it might just be the most popular recreational activity in the area- along with surfing that is. I have previously mention the facts that come along with the love of fishing including how rewarding, fun, educational, and enjoyable it is! Are you a fisherman? Can you vouch to this? I can, and I have only been a few times! Can you believe it?

The state of North Carolina passed a new law that requires fisherman to hold a North Carolina Recreational Fishing License back in January of 2007. It is administered by the Division of Marine Fisheries (DMF), and can be purchased on a 10 day, annual, or lifetime foundation. A perk to it is that this license can be combined into other licenses issued by the Wildlife Resource Commission. With this fishing license you are able to take fin fish for personal use which can’t be sold. Another important factor in having this license on the Outer Banks is that you will be held to the state’s recreational size and possession limits. You do not want to get caught disobeying the fishing law- the fines are very costly. You pay purchase this license from any approved Wildlife Resource Agent in the start, or by calling 1-888-2HUNTFISH (1-888-248-6834.)

If you are not aware of the size and possession limits here is a link for you to follow that will give you the information you need before starting your fishing journey on the Outer Banks. Good luck with your catches!

Southern Shores Realty also has many rentals in our inventory that are very beneficial for an angler, or his/ her family and friends. Many of these Outer Banks Vacation Rentals have built in washing stations out side for cleaning purposes, or are a short distance from the beach which is very ideal for individuals ready for some surf fishing!

Have a good one,

Southern Shores Realty

Fishing Tournament for cash on the Outer Banks?

Marshes Light Marina SUPERSLAM

Marshes Light Marina

TUNA. WAHOO, DOLPHIN, AND KING

Fall Fishing is in swing on the Outer Banks! This weekend, October 14th-16th, the Marshes Light Marina is hosting a fall tournament full of Tuna, Wahoo, Dolphin, and King fishing (locals favorite to reel in!) Enjoy a boat show, food and drinks, live entertainment, and a tour of the mesmerizing marina. Bring the family along, and introduce them to the world of Outer Banks fishing. First place (only) wins a whopping total of $10, 000! First place for each fish category is set up with a nice $2,000, second place will receive $1,000, third place winners still luck out with $950, and fourth place will walk away with $550. If you think you have what it takes come on down to fish your way towards some extra cash and fun. If interested please contact the Marshes Marina, located in Manteo, NC at 1-888-319-3557. You may also fill out a registration form online at the Marshes Light Marina website. Need information on where to stay? Contact one of our reservation staff members for information on our last minute vacation opportunities. www.southernshores.com

The taste of the sea.. yum!

Thanks,

Southern Shores Realty

Do you know what fishing gear is the most common on the Outer Banks?

TW'S Tackle & Bait Shop in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina

To go fishing, you will without a doubt need to have a rod, reel, line, hooks, and either live or artificial bait in hand. If you don’t, Southern Shores Realty does not believe you’ll be catching much of anything. It is not just that you need this gear to fish, but you will need the RIGHT type of gear to fish our waters. You are also going to need some cold drinks, ice, cooler, sun screen, family and/ or friends to have a great time fishing the Outer Banks! It does not matter whether you are casting sound side or ocean front, you are still bound to enjoy yourself! Although, the question of today isn’t concerning the body of water you decide to fish in, it is more like “Do you know what is the best kind of fishing equipment to use while fishing on the Outer Banks?” If you are a fishing expert, this article is most likely not for you. Only because Southern Shores Realty is here to cover the most resourceful, and commonly used fishing gear including rods, reels, lines, hooks, and bait used by some of the top fisherman in the area. If you are a pro then you probably already know!

There is actually a variety of fishing rods used on the Outer Banks that will get you the results that you want. These include the surf casting rods, trolling rods, light-tackle spinning rods, and fly rods. There are many different rods, and you use each for different techniques. As for reels the bait casting (open face), spinning, and fly reels are the most purposeful to use here on the Outer Banks. When you go to purchase your rigs and weights take a look at the bottom rig. It is the most versatile for it sits on the bottom while the bait dangles above it. Be sure to get a variety of weight sizes, because the amount you will need will depend on the current flow. If your rig won’t sit on the bottom, simply switch it out for a little more weight. Fishing line comes in pound test increments (the amount of tension a line can bear before it breaks.) Note that the thicker the line, the more visible it is to fish. If you are unsure about what type to buy, consult a tackle shop for advice on this one for it can vary considering current flows, and what you a fishing for.

Then we come to the bait, which in my eyes is the most confusing part to fishing, but then again I am a girl! You can either go with live bait, artificial lures, frozen bait, or fresh bait. It is strictly what YOU prefer; although, on the Outer Banks we know that live bait works best even though it can get quite pricey and difficult to handle. In fact, live bait is the most expensive way you can go. The next best thing would be fresh bait; an example would be shrimp, cut up mullet, minnows, or crayfish. If you can’t get your fishy hands on either of those try frozen bait which could be anything like shrimp, or squid.

If you are not interested in buying a whole lot of fishing gear, most of our tackle shops and all of the piers on the Outer Banks rent out equipment for vacationers who are interested in a fun fishing adventure for the day. Also, if you are looking to book a fishing charter, check out our list of charter services in the area. Still need help deciding what type of gear is best for the type of angling you are interested in? The best advice we can give you is to consult a tackle shop. ENJOY!

Southern Shores Realty

 

Tackle and Bait Shops on the Outer Banks

An ocean full of fish.. imagine the possibilities.

Southern Shores Realty

Have you thought about trying out one of the most popular sports on the Outer Banks, fishing? Or is it already a must do on your list of OBX activities for the week? Well, either way you are going to need to locate a local bait & tackle shop, and possibly some insight on the best fishing gear, if you happen to not know. The Outer Banks offers many different bait & tackle shops down the entire beach for you to choose from, including the piers. Furthermore, most of the bait & tackle shops conveniently rent out fishing gear.

Fishing is a much beloved sport on the OBX; people travel from all over just to enjoy one of the best fishing spots in the country. It really does not matter which way you decide to go: surf fishing, pier fishing, bridge fishing, or charter fishing. You are going to have a great time, and even though I am not a fishing expert I do know that you will need to locate a tackle and bait shop! The “something” that draws me to the idea of fishing is that it is an activity that pulls a family together for a lovely time while at the beach. If your children are not familiar with fishing, go ahead and plan a day for fishing is a great sport to introduce to the younger generation. Just think about it, fishing involves some of the simplest yet most important tools to life: teaching, learning, patience, sharing, helping, smiles, and we can not leave out all the laughs you tend to pass back and forth during a fishing extravaganza!

Local Shops:

Corolla, NC:

  1. Corolla Bait & Tackle – (252) 453-9500
  2. TW’S Bait & Tackle – (252) 453- 3339
  3. Tackle N Tours – (252) 453- 4266

Duck, NC:

  1. Bob’s Bait & Tackle – (252) 261- 8589

Kitty Hawk, NC:

  1. TW’S Bait & Tackle – (252) 261- 7848
  2. Whitney’s Bait & Tackle – (252) 261- 5551
  3. Kitty Hawk Bait & Tackle – (252) 261- 2955

Kill Devil Hills, NC:

  1. TI’S Bait & Tackle Shop – (252) 441- 3166

Nags Head, NC:

  1. TW’S Bait & Tackle – (252) 441- 4807
  2. Fishing Unlimited – (252) 441- 5028
  3. Whalebone Tackle – (252) 441- 7413
  4. Tatems Tackle Box – (252) 441- 7346

 

 

 

Bridge Fishing, Anyone?

Anglers and fish have one definite thing in common on the Outer Banks- they enjoy hanging out around structure. Too bad for the fish in this case. . . Since many different types of fish like to crowd around structure in the water, anglers see better days when keeping close to bridge pilings. My father’s favorite spot is actually right next to a bridge; it is the secret spot according to him! You can find anglers either hanging out literally on the bridge, or in a boat close by. If you do happen to have access to a boat, you will find that it is extremely easy to motor right up to a bridge piling. Luckily if your on vacation without your boat, the Outer Banks offers a few bridges that are very safe to fish from. Actually, even locals find themselves fishing from our bridges quite often. What should I expect to catch while fishing near a bridge on the Outer Banks? The most commonly caught fish around Outer Banks bridges includes Trout, Sheepshead, Spot, Black drum, Striped Bass, and Croaker.

Bridges you can access on the Outer Banks to fish from:

  • Nags Head Causeway Bridge – Referred to as “The Little Bridge.” This bridge is one of the most popular ones on the Outer Banks, and can get kind of crowded here and there depending on the season. There is a side walkway provided specifically for anglers to fish from, and it makes an easy cast into the Roanoke Sound. Definitely a great fishing spot! Located at the very end of Nags Head before the Washington Baum Bridge.

 

 

  • Herbert Bonner Bridge – There is a catwalk at the southern end of this bridge over Organ Inlet. This is specifically dedicated for Anglers to fish from so that they are completely safe from the road. You may park in the lot on the southern side of the bridge also. Located in Organ Inlet.

 

 

 

  • Washington Baum Bridge – Underneath the west end of this bridge is a convenient pier and dock. This bridge spans the channel between Roanoke Island and Nags Head. You can access this bridge and parking lot across the street from Pirates Cove Marina. Located at the very beginning of Manteo right after “The Little Bridge.”

 

 

Southern Shores Realty wishes you the best luck when fishing off of an Outer Banks bridge!


Fishing Charters on the Outer Banks

Here is a list of the plentiful charters available on the Outer Banks. Sportfishing is very popular here so join in on some of the fun with everyone in the family.

Charter Services:

A Salt Weapon Sport Fishing Charters

  • Manteo, NC (252) 475-4088

 Albatross Fleet

  • Hatteras, NC (252) 986-2515

 Beach Bum fishing

  • Kill Devil Hills (252) 449- 0232

 BI-OP-SEA Charters

  • Manteo, NC (252) 202-5423

 Bite Me Sportfishing

  • Hatteras, NC (252) 995-3035

 Blue Devil Charters

  • (252) 473-3898

 Broad Creek Fishing Center & Marina

  • Wanchese, NC (252) 473-9991

 Captain Duck Fishing Charters

  • (252) 473-5710

 Captain Mike’s “Fish on!!” Charters

  • (252) 275-3926

 Captain Rudy Gray and The Hook Up Charter

  • (252) 475-4576

 Carolina Sunrise Inshore Fishing

  • Kill Devil Hills, NC (252) 256-8083

 Country Girl Charters

  • (252) 473-5577

 Custom Sound Charters

  • (252) 473-1209

 Doghouse Sportfishing

  • (252) 475-1723

 Dream Girl

  • (252) 473-5157

 End of the Line Sportfishing

  • (252) 256-1763

 Fin Galley Charters

  • (252) 473-3017

 Fin Quest Charters

  • (252) 986- 1195

 Fin ‘n Feather Waterside Inn Fishing Charters

  • (252) 441-5353

 Fish “N” Fitz Charters

  • (252) 202-2089

 Fin-Nagle Fishing Charters

  • (252) 441-2639

 Full Moon Charters

  • (252) 441-8035

 Godspeed Charters

  • (252) 995-3311

 Good Times Sportfishing

  • (252) 995-6577

 Hoo Dini Sportfishing Charters

  • (252) 256-1137

 Nags Head Guide Service

  • (252) 475-1555

 Osprey Sportfishing

  • (252) 473-5280

 Outer Banks Fishing Charters

  • (252) 256-2047

 Oregon Inlet Fishing Center

  • (252) 261-7842

 Pirates Life Charters

  • (252) 489-3966

 Rigged Up Charters

  • (252) 473-1514

 Runaway Sportfishing

  • (252) 475-0999

 Sea Era Charters

  • (252) 473-2675

 Sea Hunter Charters

  • (252) 473-3236

 Sea Noter Charters

  • (252) 441-3927

 Seaducer Sportfishing Charters

  • (252) 449-2195

 Sharky’s Bait, Tackle, and Fishing Charters

  • (252) 255-2248

 Trophy Hunter Charters

  • (252) 473-9892


“The Billfish Capital of the World!”

Pirates Cove holds some of the BEST fishing tournaments on the Outer Banks. Last weekend the tables were turned to the ladies with the 22nd Alice Kelly Memorial Ladies Tournament. It is an annual fund raising event that supports the Outer Banks cancer support group, and gives the ladies a chance to shine in a man's world. Each year the men follow the ladies (like they always should:) in the well known Billfish tournament.

Outstanding records are set at each of these tournaments, and along with all the game-faces there is fun for the entire family, plus friends. It is a big party for everyone to enjoy at the marina, annually. You can check the stats from last weekend at the Pirates Cove's website. We do not want you to miss out next year so you will able to book your vacation online soon with Southern Shores Realty.

The Outer Banks is a great spot for a Billfish excursion; it is why we are called "The Billfish Capital of the World!" We were announced in the nationally known Marlin Magazine as the number one spot for "10 top great U.S Billfish spots." Their article explains that you do not have to travel over seas to find a great spot to catch some marlin which is completely true! The Outer Banks makes headlines every year including the state record that was reeled in at 1,228.5 pounds in Hatteras two years ago.

Billfish start to bite in May and continue throughout the summer; crews actually catch around 20 fish a day on the Outer Banks. They just flock to this area! If you decide you want to experience an excursion like no other then come on down to the Outer Banks before you miss the catch. There are numerous charter services for you to choose from, and homes available from Southern Shores Realty. We would love to accommodate you, and your family!

Enjoy!

Southern Shores Realty

 

Surf fishing on the Outer Banks

SURF FISHING FUN ON THE OUTER BANKS OF NORTH CAROLINA!

This couple from Northern Virginia was out surf fishing this morning, having a blast if you can’t tell! “I’ve been lucky all morning long, you can go check out everything that I have caught if you would like to” said the gentleman holding the fishing rod. Just like my dad, this man was proud of his catches on the OBX, and he also let me know that fishing doesn’t get better elsewhere. Like most fisherman, he loves reeling them in on the Outer Banks. It is a delight for anglers.

There is numerous ways to fish on the Outer Banks including

  • surf & pier fishing
  • brackish fishing
  • fly and sound fishing
  • inshore & offshore charter fishing

Surf fishing, seen in the picture above, is probably one of the most consistent types of fishing here on our banks, and obviously the least expensive. It all comes down to your preference, and what you already have in your tackle box of course. A mixture of tropical and cold water species are within our surf thanks to the combination of warm water, and the regular fish migration pattern. You can find multiple types of fish in the waters which is why many years ago the nickname “fish junction” was given to the Outer Banks!

There’s miles and miles of beach available to choose a great spot to fish at. Anywhere is good as long as you have a rod and reel for bait fish stay in the surf bringing the bigger ones in. A run off, eddy or a spot where birds are feeding on the bait fish will be a good spot to catch that BIG one that everyone wants. Again, it merely depends on your preference. Although, you do need SPECIALIZED equipment if you want to go surf fishing. A rod between 10-12 feet is usually used to cast a 6 oz lead weight, a heavy duty spinning reel, and bait (at the least, bait a 100 yards beyond the breaking surf.) Another inside trick to get to the bigger game is to fish in the shallow shoals where bait fish like to breed.

There is a sand spit at the point of Cape Hatteras which is the most popular surf fishing spot around. The big catch here is red drum between October and November.

So once you have your vacation booked (with Southern Shores Realty that is ;) ), specialized equipment, license, spot picked out, and some friends you will be all ready to go surf fishing here on the Outer Banks! You will also want a cooler to keep your bait in (more tasty for the heavier ones), some sunscreen, and possibly some bug spray. Surf fishing is also a good technique to use if your are trying to introduce the sport to a younger one since it is cost efficient, like I previously stated, and tons of FUN!

Make sure to check on CURRENT fishing regulations involving size and bag limits of catches. You can find information about the citation program, or current fishing regulations can be calling the North Carolina division of marine fisheries at 800-682-2632.

The Outer Banks Visitor bureau provides a fishing line (877-298-4373) Monday-Friday if you need any information, or help. Like if you happen to be wondering what is being caught in the area you will staying in.

Good luck from your Southern Shores Realty with your Outer Banks Current.