Are you a fishing enthusiast looking for the ideal spot to cast your line? Look no further than Ocean Crest Fishing Pier – here, we provide all the essential information you need to know about this coastal gem!
Introduction to Ocean Crest Fishing Pier
Ocean Crest Fishing Pier is one of the longest and most popular fishing piers on the US East Coast. This pier stretches along the states of Connecticut and Massachusetts and boasts a wide variety of coastal fish species, such as striped bass, bluefish, cod, tautog, fluke, sea bass, weakfish and more. With panoramic views of Buzzards Bay and Martha’s Vineyard Island, this pier is perfect for both recreational fishing trips and more serious offshore angling endeavors.
Here you’ll find a wide range of amenities designed to maximize your fishing experience. There are three separate bait shops at the pier providing ice-cold beer, live bait & tackle supplies, snacks & drinks and unique gift items that celebrate the regional maritime culture.
In addition to these stores there are seven banks situated along the railings for anglers wishing to cast out into deeper waters offshore. Three separate cleaning stations located around the pier allow fishers to clean their catch quickly and easily.
If you’re looking for an experienced guide to help teach you about saltwater fishing in this region or just want some knowledgeable advice from a local expert before your next trip out onto open seas then look no further than Ocean Crest Fishing Pier where professional guides are available throughout the summer season catering to both inexperienced anglers as well as seasoned veterans alike.
Fishing Opportunities
Ocean Crest Fishing Pier is a popular spot in North Carolina. It has over two thousand feet of pier and provides anglers with ample fishing opportunities. In addition to the pier itself, anglers can enjoy surf fishing, trolling, bait casting and more. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced fisherman looking for an exciting adventure, Ocean Crest Fishing Pier has something for everyone!
The pier is located on Cape Lookout National Seashore and provides easy access to prime fishing areas. Anglers will find an abundance of inshore species such as flounder, bluefish, Spanish mackerel and sea bass. Inshore species are most commonly found near piers during summer months when water temperatures are warmer and more inviting for game fish to feed nearer the shoreline.
There are also trophy-size marine game fish roaming offshore near ledges and wrecks that can provide a challenge or two for the experienced angler. Species like marlin, sailfish, tuna, amberjack and grouper can all be found in this area throughout the warmer months providing plenty of opportunity to catch that prized catch!
Tips for Fishing
Ocean Crest Pier is a saltwater fishing pier that stretches 1,000 feet out into the Atlantic Ocean in Satellite Beach, Florida. The ocean side of the pier is a popular spot for anglers of all levels to catch a wide variety of fish. Whether you are looking for a relaxing ocean view or an adventurous experience, Ocean Crest has something to offer everyone.
Before visiting Ocean Crest Pier, there are some tips to keep in mind that can help make your experience more enjoyable and successful. Be prepared with your fishing license and all necessary supplies; items like tackle, bait hooks and lures should be taken into consideration when planning for your trip.
Depending on the day you are visiting, you may also want to check with local bait shops regarding recommended types of bait and recommend depths for trolling or casting. The on-site tackle shop can provide advice as well as help visitors rent any rods they need while they’re at the pier.
Ocean Crest Pier requires guests (and residents) to pay an entrance fee that varies based on day fishing (i.e., weekdays vs weekends). Any purchased passes must be displayed at all times unless already registered with staff upon checking in at the entrance gatehouse.
Additionally, safety regulations such as no wading within 50 yards from the pier’s edge must be followed as much as possible during your visit to ensure an enjoyable time by all parties involved.
What to Bring for a Day at the Pier
If you plan on spending the day at Ocean Crest Fishing Pier, there are certain items to consider bringing in order to make your fishing experience comfortable, safe, and enjoyable.
Fishing gear
To ensure a successful day of fishing, it is important to come properly equipped with the right gear. This should include items such as a fishing rod, reel line and tackle box with lures, hooks and weights that can be purchased from local fishing departments or bait and tackle shops. Additionally, sunscreen lotion, polarized sunglasses and wet wipes are handy for protecting you from any sun burns or spills that may occur.
Clothing
Fishermen should wear appropriate clothing for the weather and avoid wearing anything too restrictive. Breathable shirts and pants that wick away moisture will help keep you cool during hot days on the pier. Additionally, hats or caps should be worn to protect the neck and face from the harmful rays of the sun. Make sure to bring an extra change of clothes in case of inclement weather conditions or accidents on the water.
Food/beverages
It is strongly advised that individuals bring their own food and drinks while out on the pier in order to remain hydrated throughout the day’s activities. Snack items such as chips or dried fruit can serve as convenient sources of energy when hunger strikes unexpectedly. Consider packing an insulated lunch bag with a few canned beverages (juice boxes) in order to have access to refreshments during extended visits at the waterfront property.
Rules and Regulations for Fishing at Ocean Crest
Visitors to Ocean Crest Fishing Pier must adhere to all fishing rules and regulations in order to maintain the health of marine life and promote a safe environment:
- Fishing is allowed during designated times, 6 am – 10 pm.
- Prior to fishing, obtain a valid sport fishing license from the local licensing authority.
- The use of live bait such as worms, clams, shrimp and minnows is allowed. Artificial lures such as jigs or plugs may be used if desired.
- Anglers are limited to two poles per person at any given time with no more than two hooks per pole, for a total of four hooks per person.
- Releasing fish is encouraged as part of Ocean Crest Fishing Pier’s effort to conserve marine life. All species must be returned alive, intact and unharmed back into the water after they have been caught. Should an angler wish to keep a fish they have caught, they must first obtain a permit from the Massachusetts Department of Fish & Game (MassWildlife). Permits may also be required in order for anglers under 16 years old to keep any species other than sunfish or pumpkinseed.
- Wading near shorelines is prohibited due to the potential corrosion of shore property over time caused by wading where the fish fecal matter may accumulate on the beach sand and rocks. Wading is only allowed while fishing further out towards deeper waters off pier ends or sites equipped with stairs into the ocean depths when available along the coastline at Ocean Crest Fishing Pier locations.
- Fighting within water boundaries or ashore surrounding Ocean Crest Fishing Pier areas are strictly prohibited and can result in disciplinary action including but not limited to banishment from participating in any activity either onshore or within pier boundaries for an extended period of time and/or criminal prosecution if necessary by law enforcement agencies operating within city limits affiliated with Ocean Crest Fishing Pier locations such as Harbortown Police Department (HTPD).
Local Wildlife Viewing Opportunities
The Ocean Crest Pier is a popular spot in the area to enjoy incredible views, go fishing, and observe some amazing wildlife. The pier stretches over the pristine waters of Emerald Isle, and you have the opportunity to view some of the most extraordinary creatures in their natural habitats. Here are some of the local wildlife viewing opportunities that can be experienced at the pier:
Sea Turtles:
Sea turtle season usually runs from May to October here at the pier. During this time, hatchling loggerheads often swim alongside pods of dolphins near the shoreline.
Birds:
During spring and fall coastal migration seasons, visitors can often spot hundreds of water birds. Many species such as Red Knots, Sanderlings and Dowitchers can be seen taking flight among others like Caspian Terns which remain around during summer months.
Jaegers:
This aerial predator has a large wingspan which enables them to migrate long distances between northern Atlantic coasts during spring and fall seasons. Jaegers forage for prey like other birds in small groups over fishing grounds near the pier creating breathtaking displays for visitors viewing from without!
Tuna Fish:
According to NOAA reports, bluefin tuna have been spotted on occasion at depths up to 1,000 meters near where our pier is located. With luck on your side you might catch sight of one darting through waters if visiting between April and June or September through November periods!
Atlantic Rays & Sharks:
Various species such as Bull sharks can be occasionally seen entering ocean depths if visiting an area known as “The Point” located 5 miles eastwardly away from Ocean Crest Pier jurisdictional boundaries – on calm days these creatures make beautiful spectacles when breaching waves surface heading toward shorelines!
Moreover; stingrays have also made occasional appearances here – specifically the Atlantic stingrays which is a common variety living within coastal waters thus proving suitable conditions found hereabouts!
Nearby Attractions and Amenities
For those planning a visit to the Ocean Crest Fishing Pier, there are a host of attractions and amenities nearby that can make the experience even more enjoyable.
Shops and Restaurants:
The nearby international harbor village offers visitors plenty of options for meals, drinks, shopping and entertainment. There are unique stores with specialty items sure to please the most discerning shopper. For those looking to indulge in a little refreshment, numerous restaurants offer food and drink with stunning views of the oceanfront.
Local Attractions:
Beyond shopping and dining, there are many area attractions near Ocean Crest Fishing Pier that can make for an exciting day trip or weekend getaway. Some area favorites include:
- Old Orchard Beach Pier for sun-drenched fun;
- Maine State Aquarium nearby in Boothbay Harbor;
- Scarborough Marsh Nature Center offering guided nature walks and lessons;
- The Rachel Carson Wildlife Reserve for hiking trails;
- Saco River Adventures where you can explore via kayak or canoe;
- Maine Lighthouse Museum for an educational trip through history;
- Portland Head Light historic lighthouse at Fort Williams Park located in nearby Cape Elizabeth;
- nature tours throughout the Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve;
- Portland Maritime Museum modeled after a ship chandlery on Commercial Street’s wharfside and more!
No matter your age or interests, there’s something special waiting to be discovered near Ocean Crest Fishing Pier!
Contact Information & Hours of Operation
Ocean Crest Fishing Pier is located at 1409 E Beach Dr, Oak Island, NC 28465, United States. The pier’s hours of operation are subject to change due to safety or weather considerations.
Staff on site can provide fishing quality control regulations as well as pier closures due to maintenance and will be available from 8 am – 8 pm, seven days a week during our peak season (from mid-March–mid-September).
They ask visitors to please observe all posted regulations, including the possession and use of all current valid fishing licenses. They reserve the right to close the pier or portions of it at any time without prior notice; this may include closing the rake, cantilever sections, and/or interior sections due to safety or maintenance needs. In addition, all ecological guidelines must be observed while using the Ocean Crest Fishing Pier.