Known as one of the best fishing spots on the East Coast, the angling experience of a lifetime awaits you at Jennette’s Pier! Located in Nags Head, NC, the state-of-the-art concrete pier extends a whopping 1,000 feet out over the Atlantic Ocean. Whether you’re looking reel in your next trophy fish or spend a day browsing the Aquarium exhibits, a trip to the pier should definitely be on your bucket list. Make sure to request our free Vacation Guide for even more great recommendations about things to see and do in the Outer Banks!
3 of the Best Things to Do at Jennette’s Pier
1. Cast Your Line Into the Atlantic
The Outer Banks boasts several world-class fishing spots, but Jennette’s Pier should be at the top of your list! Fishermen come from near and far to hook a variety of species including black drum, bluefish, cobia, croaker, mahi-mahi, flounder, gray trout, king mackerel, pinfish, pigfish, pompano, red drum, sheepshead, spadefish, Spanish mackerel, speckled trout, skate, and spot, or check the daily fishing report shown on their website home page. Come see for yourself why fishing at Jennette’s Pier has become a tradition for experienced anglers and families alike! Once you visit, you’ll want to come back year after year.
Before you go, make sure to stop by the full-service Pier Shop to stock up on snacks and cold drinks, tackle, souvenirs, or beach supplies. It’s also a good idea to check current conditions and forecast at Jennette’s Pier. Cameras are set up around the pier so you can watch live footage of the surf ahead of time.
2. Explore the Aquarium
If you’re traveling with kids, you’ll definitely want to take them inside the pier house to see the Aquariums. Peer into the 52,000-gallon tank of the Life Under the Pier exhibit to watch the colorful fish swim by, learn about the latest technology used by marine biologists to study the ocean, or submerge yourself into one of the many interactive exhibits including the 2,500-gallon Life on the Ledge Aquarium. Make sure to take a stroll along the outer deck to see the informative displays about marine mammals, shorebirds, wind turbines, surfing, and Outer Banks fishing.
3. Rent the Pier for a Special Event
From weddings and family reunions to corporate meetings, Jennette’s Pier offers a picturesque backdrop for your next special event. There is an onsite 3,500-square-foot banquet room that can comfortably accommodate 175 guests. Beautifully designed with soaring ceilings and a private covered deck, the building would be a perfect venue for any occasion. The views of the Atlantic are simply unbeatable!
More Reasons to Visit Jennette’s Pier
Jennette’s Pier is always a fun place to be, but there’s even more to enjoy!
Family Fishing
Why not gather the family for a morning spent learning to fish? With friendly and knowledgeable instructors guiding you, this two-hour class provides everything you need: gear, bait, and even a fishing license! You’ll all get to explore the joys of fishing together and learn how to catch and release fish safely. Sounds like a blast!
First Fish Certificate
If you’re new to fishing, you’ll love this! After you catch your very first fish, Jennette’s Pier gives you a special “First Fish Certificate” to celebrate your achievement. It’s a memorable keepsake from your time in the Outer Banks that you’ll cherish!
Exciting Events
Make sure to check the calendar while you’re at the pier because there are always exciting community events happening. From surf contests to beach yoga and 5Ks, there’s never a dull moment at Jennette’s Pier!
Conservation Efforts
Jennette’s Pier is passionate about conservation and plays a big role in protecting the wonderful wildlife around the Outer Banks. Here are a couple of its efforts.
- Marine Mammal Stranding Network: The Marine Mammal Stranding Network is a program that helps respond to stranded marine mammals along North Carolina’s coast. The pier collaborates with other nonprofits and agencies to rescue these animals in need.
- Protecting Endangered Species: The pier is dedicated to looking after endangered species like sea turtles, Carolina gopher frogs, and sand tiger sharks. They work hard to protect these beautiful creatures from threats like overhunting, habitat destruction, and pollution.
Fees and Hours of Operation
You can enjoy fishing at Jennette’s Pier year-round! In the months of April and November, the pier is open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. From December through March, it’s open from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. daily. From May through October, it is open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m daily. The pier is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
The daily fishing rate is $14 for adults and $7 for children aged 12 and under. If you do not plan to fish, there is a $2 fee for adults and a $1 fee for children. Rods are available to rent for $12, or you can pin rig for an additional $8. The pier also sells multi-day passes and annual passes, the latter of which includes a free family membership to the Aquarium.
Plan Your Fishing Trip With Paramount Destinations
Once you’ve reeled in the catch of the day, come relax and unwind in one of our Outer Banks vacation rentals! Located in Corolla, Duck, and Southern Shores, our properties are within a 15 to 60 minute drive from the best Outer Banks fishing piers. From intimate cottages to large beach estates, we offer an extensive selection of homes. We even offer pet-friendly accommodations for guests who are traveling with their four-legged friends!
If you’re looking for rentals close to Jennette’s Pier, Memory Lane in Nag’s Head is an excellent choice. With a large wrap-around porch, top-notch amenities, and incredible oceanfront views, this stunning beach cottage is just a 6-minute drive from the pier. Are you ready for the fishing experience of a lifetime? Check out our current specials and book your stay today. We look forward to welcoming you to the Outer Banks!
