Welcome to the ultimate Outer Banks vacation guide, brought to you by Joe Lamb Jr. and Associates. If you’re seeking an unforgettable beach getaway, you’ve come to the right place. Explore the hidden gems, stunning landscapes, and abundant natural wonders that make the Outer Banks a dream destination. Let us be your guide as we uncover the best-kept secrets of this coastal paradise.
Uncovering the Charms of Corolla
From pristine beaches to iconic wild horses, Corolla is a family-friendly town that offers a picturesque escape from the everyday. Immerse yourself in the beauty of its coastline and take a wild horse tour to witness these majestic creatures up close. Remember to visit the historic Currituck Beach Lighthouse for panoramic views that will take your breath away.
Embracing the Coastal Magic of Duck
Duck, with its laid-back atmosphere and coastal village vibes, it is the perfect place to unwind and soak in the charm of the Outer Banks. Discover outdoor adventures like kayaking on the Currituck Sound or simply relaxing on the beach. Indulge in a culinary journey at the waterfront restaurants and explore the unique boutiques for a delightful shopping experience.
Thrills and History in Kill Devil Hills and Nags Head
For a mix of excitement and history, Kill Devil Hills and Nags Head have it all. Explore the Wright Brothers National Memorial and pay tribute to the birthplace of aviation. Experience the thrill of water sports, sandboarding at Jockey’s Ridge State Park, or a horseback ride during a mesmerizing sunset along the shoreline.
Escaping to Tranquility on Hatteras Island
Hatteras Island beckons with its uncrowded beaches and natural beauty. This secluded paradise is a haven for nature enthusiasts and fishing enthusiasts alike. Embark on a fishing charter, climb the iconic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse for panoramic views, or unwind on the pristine shores, letting the sound of crashing waves soothe your soul.
Discovering Ocracoke Island’s Maritime History
To truly escape it all, Ocracoke Island is a must-visit. Accessible only by ferry or private boat, this hidden gem offers a peaceful retreat. Explore the island on a bike, visit the historic Ocracoke Island Lighthouse, and dive into the rich maritime history at the Ocracoke Preservation Society Museum.
With breathtaking beaches, rich history, and unspoiled natural wonders, the Outer Banks is a coastal paradise that promises an unforgettable vacation. From the wild horses of Corolla to the tranquil shores of Ocracoke Island, each town offers a unique experience. Let Joe Lamb Jr. and Associates be your trusted guide as you plan your dream vacation to the Outer Banks. Pack your bags, embrace adventure, and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime. Start your journey today!
The Outer Banks of North Carolina is a beautiful and scenic vacation destination known for its stunning beaches, rolling dunes, and abundant wildlife. If you’re planning a trip to the Outer Banks, be sure to set aside some time to explore the outdoors. This blog will guide you to some of the best places to see scenic sights in the Outer Banks.
Cape Hatteras National Seashore
This 70-mile stretch of protected coastline is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Outer Banks. Visitors can hike along the dunes, swim in the ocean, and take in the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is also located in this area and is a must-visit for those interested in maritime history.
Jockey’s Ridge State Park
This 426-acre park is home to the tallest natural dune system in the eastern United States. Visitors can climb to the top of the dunes for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Jockey’s Ridge is also popular for hang gliding and kite flying.
Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge
This 13-mile stretch of protected coastline is home to diverse wildlife, including sea turtles, shorebirds, and seals. Visitors can take a leisurely walk along the nature trails, go bird watching, or simply relax on the beach and take in the the great outdoors.
Roanoke Island
This historical island is home to several scenic spots, including the Elizabethan Gardens and the Roanoke Island Marshes Lighthouse. Visitors can also stroll along the Manteo Waterfront and enjoy views of the sound and surrounding landscape.
Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge
This 152,000-acre wildlife refuge is home to various wildlife, including black bears, red wolves, and alligators. Visitors can take a scenic drive through the refuge, go bird watching, or take a guided tour to learn more about the area’s wildlife and ecology.
Currituck Banks National Estuarine Reserve
White heron standing in the grass
This 965-acre reserve is home to some of the most pristine natural areas in the Outer Banks. Visitors can walk along the nature trails, go kayaking in the sound, or simply relax on the beach and take in the area’s natural beauty.
The Outer Banks is a beautiful and scenic vacation destination that offers plenty of opportunities to explore the outdoors. Whether you’re interested in hiking, wildlife watching, or simply taking in the scenery, there are plenty of places to see scenic sights in the Outer Banks. Be sure to add some of these locations to your itinerary and take in all the area offers!
The Outer Banks is a beautiful destination for outdoor activities and sunshine-filled days. But what do you do when the weather doesn’t cooperate and you’re faced with a rainy day? Don’t worry, there are still plenty of fun and interesting things to do in the Outer Banks, even when it’s raining. Don’t let a little rain ruin your vacation! Our Rainy Day Guide has plenty of fun and interesting activities to keep you entertained in this beautiful coastal region, no matter the weather.
Visit a Museum
The Outer Banks is home to several museums that offer a glimpse into the area’s history and culture. The Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum in Hatteras is a must-visit for anyone interested in the region’s maritime history. The Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kill Devil Hills is another great option for learning about the Wright Brothers’ first flight and their impact on aviation.
Explore Indoor Attractions
In addition to museums, the Outer Banks has several indoor attractions that are perfect for a rainy day. The North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island is a popular spot for families and features exhibits on local marine life. The Outer Banks Mall in Nags Head is another option for those looking to do some shopping or catch a movie at the local cinema.
Indulge in Local Cuisine
What better way to spend a rainy day than indulging in some delicious local cuisine? The Outer Banks is known for its fresh seafood and southern-style comfort food. Check out some of the area’s best restaurants and try out a new dish or two.
Relax at a Spa
Finally, rainy days are the perfect opportunity to treat yourself to a day of relaxation at a local spa. The Sanderling Resort and Spa in Duck and the Aqua Spa in Duck are both great options for a day of pampering.
While rainy days in the Outer Banks may not be what you had in mind, there are still plenty of activities and attractions to keep you entertained. Don’t let a little rain dampen your spirits – embrace the opportunity to explore and discover something new.
The Outer Banks are a string of barrier islands spanning more than 200 miles along North Carolina’s northeast coast. A piece of paradise you may call it. As the series “Outer Banks” has grown in popularity on Netflix, viewers may notice some differences from the show. The real Outer Banks is not too far from what is depicted in the show. We are here to show you how you can relive some of the most iconic adventures.
Shipwrecked on a Sandbar
In the show, John B follows the hunt his father once conducted to locate the treasure of the Royal Merchant. John and his friends discover a clue that leads them to the treasure his father never found.
The Graveyard of the Atlantic is another name for the Outer Banks. As a result of more than 3,000 shipwrecks off the Outer Banks coast, the area has earned its title. The Royal Merchant is not one of the lost ships. The many people who owned these ships included explorers, fishermen, and pirates. The Outer Banks was once home to Blackbeard, and legend says he buried his treasure here! No treasure has been found… yet.
A ferry is used in the show to transport Sarah and John B. to UNC-Chapel Hill. On the island, there is a ferry, but it doesn’t run to Chapel Hill. You can access the central portions of the island by driving over the bridges. The only part of the island that is not accessible by vehicle is Ocracoke. There is only one way to reach Ocracoke island and it is by ferry. A 60-minute scenic ride (weather permitting) that will keep you entertained. To learn more about the ferry schedule, please visit here.
The Surf
During the episode, John B and his friends are seen taking their surfboards out on the water for a moment of peace. The OBX is one of the premier surfing spots on the east coast. The Atlantic waters provide constantly shifting sandbars that create incredible swells that make for a memorable story. Surfers from all over the country flock to the Outer Banks to paddle out. We have the most ideal surf check spot at one of Joe Lamb Jr. oceanfront homes.
Lighthouse Clues
The Redfield Lighthouse provides a crucial clue for John B and his friends during their hunt. There are a total of five lighthouses located on the OBX that you can visit. As far as the Redfield Lighthouse is concerned, it doesn’t exist on the Outer Banks. On the island, you will find the tallest lighthouse in America, which stands over 200 feet tall. A few lighthouses still function to guide those on the waters.
‘Tis the season for love! Valentine’s Day this year is all about romance on the Outer Banks. Your favorite seaside destination is perfect for a romantic couples’ getaway. Whatever you plan to do on Valentine’s Day, we know all the things to do to make it extra special.
Rent a beach house
To start off your Valentine’s Day, there’s nothing better than a scenic view from your front porch. With one of Joe Lamb Jr.’s beach houses, everyone is welcome, whether it is with a partner or the whole family. The beautiful Outer Banks of North Carolina are the perfect place to spend Valentine’s Day with your sweetheart. Whether you’re staying for a long weekend or an entire week, you’ll have a great time.
Watch Sunrise on the Beach
The sunrise on the Outer Banks is unmatched. Stroll the island’s eastern side to watch a spectacular display of light shine across the Atlantic. Give your date a lifetime memory by sharing this experience! Enjoy the sunrise from the romantic comfort of one of our oceanfront homes while you catch a glimpse of the sunrise.
Watch Sunset at Jockeys Ridge
Jockeys Ridge is the largest sand dune on the east coast. Allowing for panoramic views of both the sound and the ocean. This time of year, there are fewer crowds on Jockey’s Ridge, which makes it an ideal spot to watch sunsets over the Roanoke Sound. During sunset, the sand dunes are unmatched.
Romantic Dinner
There are a number of different culinary experiences that you can enjoy on the Outer Banks. A wide range of dining options are available on the island, so you can choose the one that suits you best. In preparation for Valentine’s Day, many restaurants offer special dinner menus for their customers. We recommend making reservations (if possible) for your favorite local restaurant in advance.
Take a Stroll in the Gardens
The Elizabethan Gardens are located in Fort Raleigh National Park. This garden has become one of America’s most beautiful and unique gardens since the first attempts to colonize America by England under Queen Elizabeth I. The Roanoke Sound’s tranquil setting makes this scenic year-round garden a perfect spot for a Valentine’s Day stroll. Find out more about the fascinating beauty of camellias as one of the featured flowers in February.
Star Gazing
Observe the Milky Way and shooting stars! Among the most popular things to do on the Outer Banks is stargazing. The Outer Banks have dark skies and limited light pollution, and are a romantic place to stargaze with your loved one. Valentine’s Day beneath the stars.
Now that we are in 2023, people are starting to make changes. Spending time with family, learning new skills, relaxing more, or creating new memories might be on your list of resolutions. An Outer Banks vacation allows you to accomplish all of these things. Contact us today to reserve your 2023 vacation!
Learn to Surf
Besides its picturesque beaches, the Outer Banks is an ideal destination for surfers. World-class surfing spots are found around the Outer Banks, attracting surfers from all over the globe. However, these waves are not just for professionals but vacationers looking for water fun. Various surf schools offer lessons for vacationers of all ages. Try dancing on the water this year as a new year’s resolution.
Visit all 5 Lighthouse
There are five lighthouses on the Outer Banks, which protect its shores. Driving along the barrier island coast will allow you to see these lighthouses. Reach the top to enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the island. Take an Outer Banks lighthouse road trip this year and visit them all!
Try a New Local Spot
Local restaurants, shops, and attractions are plentiful along the Outer Banks. This year try something new that you have never experienced before. Embrace a first experience this year!
Buy your Own Vacation Home
Buying a beach house has always been a dream of yours. Find that perfect beach home with the help of one of our real estate agents. Get in touch with an agent by clicking this link.
Reel One In
A favorite fishing spot has always been the Outer Banks. Known as “The Billfish Capital of the World,” fishermen travel far and wide to catch a bite. Perhaps you can fish deep sea, from the pier, or even from the beach. If fishing piques your interest, make this your destination. There may be a record catch this year.
Spending time with family
A vacation on the Outer Banks is the perfect way to spend quality time with your loved ones. Aside from the beach, there are plenty of activities to be enjoyed by the whole family. It’s an enjoyable way to spend time together, experience new things, and create new memories.
Go somewhere new
There is always room for new adventures. This year, why not spend some time on the Outer Banks beaches? Vacations are a great way to relax, have fun, and appreciate nature. Relax at the beach as you deserve it.
The Outer Banks is well known worldwide (or just in the US) as the perfect location for a relaxing vacation. But did you know that it has also caught the eye of many series and movie directors who wanted to glimpse our beautiful islands? We at Joe Lamb Jr. & Associates wanted to share a pop-culture blog post on what famous movies and series have been filmed on the Outer Banks.
Movies
The Peanut Butter Falcon – This movie was filmed by local Outer Banks native Tyler Nilson and was out in 2019. This movie not only shows the beauty of our islands but also the dreams of one young man who dreams of becoming a professional wrestler. You can find The Peanut Butter Falcon on several streaming services & is out for you to add to your movie collection at home.
Brainstorm – While this movie was not filmed entirely on the Outer Banks, it has one scene. That location was at the Wrights Brothers National Monument in Kill Devil Hills. Have you seen this film before?
Call Sign Romeo – Another movie that should be hitting the big screen that was filmed on the OBX is “Call Sign Romeo.” It’s based on events during a State Championship wrestler in 2016 at First Flight High School.
Nights in Rodanthe – This film is based on a Nicholas Sparks book that made people fall in love with the Outer Banks even more as soon as it hit the theaters. This was filmed in the Village of Rodanthe, which you can view as you drive down Highway 12.
Message in a Bottle – Another film based on Nicholas Sparks’ book is Message in a Bottle. This film was released in 1999 and featured Kevin Costner and Robin Penn. It’s a love story that will make you want to have a romantic getaway to the OBX soon.
TV Series’
Wicked Tuna: Outer Banks – You can catch this series on the National Geographic Channel or Discovery Plus. It follows local fishermen navigating out through the Oregon Inlet into the Atlantic Ocean, where they battle for Bluefin Tuna. This series has been on the air for over seven seasons and is still going. Become a fisherman for the day and try your luck at catching a Bluefin Tuna too!
American Horror Story: Roanoke – Roanoke was the 6th season of American Horror Story TV series. While the season was not filmed on the Outer Banks, it follows The Lost Colony’s true story. The original farmhouse they based their “farmhouse” on in the series is nearby Martin County, NC.
Outer Banks – As an honorable mention, Netflix’s hit TV Series Outer Banks is not filmed on the Outer Banks but is filmed on location in Charleston, SC. In this series, you will see where they make it seem like it takes 30 minutes to get from the OBX to our Capital City, Raleigh…but we must tell you it takes roughly 3 ½ hours.
We hope you enjoyed this fun blog post on our “Famous” Outer Banks as much as we did writing it. Staying in one of our Outer Banks vacation rentals will have you feeling like a “star!” Joe Lamb Jr. & Associates hope you and your family experience the OBX just like the movie stars do.
Joe Lamb Jr. & Associates is one of the most trusted vacation rental managers in the local area by growing into a market leader in the Vacation Rental and Sales Industry. Joe Lamb Jr. and his family have played a vital and intricate role in the Outer Banks Community for decades.
Over the past 50+ years, Joe Lamb Jr. & Associates have worked diligently to help promote the Outer Banks for the amazing beach and family vacation destination that it is, helping to increase tourism in the area and grow our beautiful community.
Welcome back to the third and final installment of our Outer Banks fishing blog series. Our first post of the series displayed the most popular types of fishing in the OBX while the second post focused on popular fish that you can catch here in the Outer Banks.
Planning for memories to last a lifetime can be done at any of the following locations.
We are smack dab in the thick of the fishing season here in the Outer Banks. With the right insight and a little luck, you will be reeling in some monster fish in no time! So dream big and travel far!
Some of the Best Surf Fishing Spots in the OBX
What are some of the most plentiful surf fishing areas?
On the Outer Banks, many people enjoy going surf fishing. It’s a fun activity, especially in the fall when the fishing is excellent and the ocean and air are both cooling off, making a day at the beach even more enjoyable. Where do you even begin when there are miles and miles of beach on which to cast your line? Here’s a rundown of some of the most well-known surf fishing spots along the Outer Banks.
Hatteras Inlet
Hatteras Inlet’s northern end requires a 4WD vehicle. Alternatively, you can park at the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum parking lot and walk 2 miles north to the beach. Take the ferry to get to the other side of the island. Summer ferries run every 30 minutes, from 5:00 a.m. to midnight, with each ferry holding 30-60 vehicles; off-season ferries run every hour. The trip takes about 40 minutes and follows the coastline of Hatteras Island before heading out into the open inlet waters.
You can park near the ferry docks and walk to the beach, or you can drive to the 4WD beach access ramp down the road from the ferry docks. Before driving on the beach in the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, make sure you have a beach driving permit and a fishing license that are both still current.
Cape Point
Cape Point is a well-known surf fishing spot on the Outer Banks. North and South facing beaches are formed as a result of land jutting into the Atlantic Ocean and curving sharply back towards the shore at the Point. There are two powerful ocean currents that meet off Cape Point: The Labrador and the Gulf Streams. To get to the Point, you’ll need a four-wheel-drive vehicle and a beach driving permit, or you can walk from the public access point.
During peak times, Cape Point can be overrun with anglers vying for prime casting spots. Don’t trespass on anyone’s fishing territory, but don’t be shy about striking up a conversation either. Many of the local fishermen have been coming to Cape Point for decades and are happy to share a fish story or two, or even a few tips, with a newcomer.
Oregon Inlet
Oregon Inlet is the most visited inlet on the Outer Banks, and for good reason: it has an abundance of fishing spots. The sandy beach stretches from the oceanside to the sound side on the northern beach, and 4WD vehicles are authorized with a permit. It’s a great spot for surf fishing. In the inlet, the beach turns into a seawall and the soundside has a small sandy beach access. The southern beach is excellent for surf fishing. The southern side is better for fishermen who want to park their car and walk to the beach, while the northern side is better for anglers who want to drive out to the beach.
You don’t have to go to one of these places to have a productive surf fishing trip. Almost anywhere on our beaches is a good place to try your luck with the fishing rod. If you’re not a fan of surf fishing, try throwing a line in from one of the Outer Banks’ many piers instead. There are plenty of types of fishing for you to explore in the OBX!
Some of the Best Sound Fishing Spots in the OBX
Where are the best fishing spots soundside?
When it comes to Outer Banks fishing, fall is prime time. However, fishing in the ocean isn’t for everyone, so we asked some local fishermen about great spots to fish in the sounds. Here are a few of the best-kept secrets in the Outer Banks. When fish find a spot with plenty of bait they stay there.
South Side of Oregon Inlet
It’s a great place to take kids and you can go fishing in the ocean-like waters. There’s parking and a short trail to a shallow lagoon or small bay right next to the Bonner Bridge on the south side. The bay is a great place for kids to learn how to fish because it is sheltered.
Whalehead Club Boat Basin
This is a safe place with a few surprises. Flounder have been caught in the basin, which is strange considering that the water is primarily fresh. Also, keep an eye out for largemouth bass. It’s a wonderful location for families with children.
Roanoke Island, South of Washington Baum Bridge Boat Ramp
NC Marine Fisheries built a dock at the end of the ramp, and locals swear by it. There are a lot of Rockfish and Spot in the water.
See You Soon in the OBX
The Outer Banks are unmatched by any other vacation destination, especially for Outdoor Junkies. Snag huge Bluefish, Stripers, and more from the beach. Paddle around the sound side of the islands to keep an eye out for big Red Drum, delicious Flounder, and other marine life. Add a rich fishing history and beautiful surroundings to the mix, you’ve found the ideal fishing spot.
Are you thinking of going fishing on the Outer Banks? Finding the new trails and roads less traveled is always exciting, so try a few of these spots and venture out to find some honey holes in the OBX on your own!
—
Joe Lamb Jr. & Associates is one of the most trusted vacation rental managers in the local area by growing into a market leader in the Vacation Rental and Sales Industry. Joe Lamb Jr. and his family have played a vital and intricate role in the Outer Banks Community for decades.
Over the past 50+ years, Joe Lamb Jr. & Associates have worked diligently to help promote the Outer Banks for the amazing beach and family vacation destination that it is, helping to increase tourism in the area and grow our beautiful community.
Welcome back to our Outer Banks fishing blog series. During this second post of the three blog post series, we’ll be looking at different fish species, popular in the OBX area. Be sure to check back next month to find out how we wrap up the world of OBX fishing for our outdoor enthusiasts with some awesome local spots to throw a line in!
Where two large currents meet, a variety of fish species thrive. To be honest, the waters off of Outer Bank, NC, rank as one of the world’s most productive fishing regions.
There are many ways to fish on the Outer Banks, but last month we broke down the 4 most popular Types of Fishing in the area.
Are you ready to find out what types of fish you can catch within a short walk, bike ride, or drive from your vacation rental in the Outer Banks of North Carolina as a weekend warrior or a full week fall vacationer?
Beach Fishing
What can you catch from the beach?
On the Outer Banks’ more than 100-mile shoreline, there are countless opportunities for surf fishing.
In North Carolina, the weather has a direct impact on surf fishing opportunities. Depending on the season, the weather, the tides, and the contour of the shoreline itself, different species can be abundant or non-existent.
Here are 5 types of fish you can catch from the beach in the OBX:
Gulf Flounder
Also Known As: Flounder
Limits: 15” long minimum, bag limit of 4 per day
Croaker
Also Known As: Hardhead fish, pinfish, kingfish
Limits: None
Black Drum
Also Known As: Drum
Limits: 14” – 25” long, bag limit of 10 per day
Red Drum
Also Known As: Redfish, Puppy Drum, Channel Bass
Limits: 18” – 27” long, bag limit of 1 per day
Sheepshead
Also Known As: None but they are often confused with Black Drum
Limits: 10” long minimum, bag limit of 10 per day
Sound Fishing
What can you catch from the sound?
More than just saltwater fishing can be found on the Outer Banks of North Carolina West of these islands is a complex network of sounds, canals, and inlets where freshwater (from inland rivers) meets salt water (from the Atlantic) to create a brackish mix.
You can cast a line in some of the local sounds like Roanoke, Croatan, and Pamlico.
Here are 5 types of fish you can catch from the sound in the OBX:
Speckled Trout
Also Known As: Spotted Seatrout
Limits: 14” long minimum, bag limit of 4 per day
Gray Trout
Also Known As: Weakfish
Limits: 12” long minimum, bag limit of 1 per day
Spot
Also Known As: Yellow Belly
Limits: None
Striped Bass
Also Known As: Rockfish
Limits: Varies, contact The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) for more info.
Summer Flounder
Also Known As: Flounder
Limits: 15” long minimum, bag limit of 6 per day
Pier Fishing
What can you catch from the piers?
Looking for a little more adventure but not too far away from the coast? A few blocks away from our vacation rentals in Kill Devil Hills and Hatteras Island are the legendary ocean piers of the Outer Banks (Avon and Rodanthe). Because blanket licenses cover all fishing piers, you won’t need to get individual licenses. While pier fishing is very accessible, you will have to pay a small fee.
Consider checking a recent fish report before heading out to the pier. Here is a link to Jennette’s Fishing Report.
Here are 5 types of fish you can catch from the piers in the OBX:
Dolphinfish
Also Known As: Mahi Mahi
Limits: No minimum length, bag limit of 10 per day
King Mackerel
Also Known As: King, King Fish
Limits: 24” long minimum, bag limit of 3 per day
Spanish Mackerel
Also Known As: Horse Mackerel, Spotted Mackerel
Limits: 12” long minimum, bag limit of 15 per day
Hogfish
Also Known As: Hog Snapper
Limits: 17” long minimum, bag limit of 2 per day
Black Sea Bass
Also Known As: Blackfish
Limits: (North of Cape Hatteras) 12.5” long minimum, bag limit of 15 per day | (South of Cape Hatteras) 13” long minimum, bag limit of 7 per day
Charters / Fishing Excursions
What can you catch from the charters and excursions?
Want to catch a few big fish away from your Outer Banks vacation rental? Book a fishing trip to the open seas off the coast of the OBX. There is a higher price tag for these trips, but they can be shared with friends and family, so it’s worth looking into the maximum number of people who can come with you.
A full day of offshore charters begins at 5 a.m. because the trip to the Gulf Stream takes about an hour. Food, drinks, sunscreen, and seasickness remedies are all that you need to bring; the captain and crew will provide everything else, as well as any guidance. For easy access to the ocean, Outer Banks charter fishing boats are located near the inlets (there are no inlets on the northern Outer Banks so there are no Outer Banks charter fishing boats there either). Marinas usually offer services for cleaning the fish you catch.
Film tourists can visit the filming location of the famous National Geographic show Wicked Tuna North vs. South. All of the boats featured in Wicked Tuna South are slipped out of Outer Banks Marina in the fishing village of Wanchese. Depending on the filming schedule people can book a private charter on a few of these boats.
Here are 5 types of fish you can catch from the open seas of the OBX:
Grouper
Also Known As: Black Bass
Limits: 20” long minimum, bag limit of 3 per day
Blue Marlin
Also Known As: Billfish
Limits: 99” long minimum, 1 / vessel/trip either Blue or White Marlin
White Marlin
Also Known As: Marlin
Limits: 99” long minimum, 1 / vessel/trip either Blue or White Marlin
Amberjack
Also Known As: Allied Kingfish
Limits: Varies, contact The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) for more info.
Cobia
Also Known As: Black Kingfish
Limits: Varies, contact The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) for more info.
More To Come
Keep an eye on this blog for some great local fishing hotspots around the Outer Banks in our last blog of the series coming next month! And don’t forget to share your fishing pictures from your OBX vacation with us online! Using the hashtag #bestcatchjoelambjr. In the meantime, check out some other fun things to do in the Outer Banks of North Carolina, and we wish you tight lines until next month!
—
Joe Lamb Jr. & Associates is one of the most trusted vacation rental managers in the local area by growing into a market leader in the Vacation Rental and Sales Industry. Joe Lamb Jr. and his family have played a vital and intricate role in the Outer Banks Community for decades.
Over the past 50+ years, Joe Lamb Jr. & Associates have worked diligently to help promote the Outer Banks for the amazing beach and family vacation destination that it is, helping to increase tourism in the area and grow our beautiful community.
Welcome to our blog series on everything fishing in the Outer Banks. For the next few months, we will explore types of fishing, different species of fish, popular fishing holes, and much more. So all of you outdoor junkies make sure you check back every month to see what’s new in the world of OBX fishing!
Numerous fish species thrive where two major currents intersect. In reality, the waters surrounding the Outer Banks of North Carolina are one of the world’s richest fishing areas.
With infinite options for all types of recreational fishing, it’s no surprise that these magnificent barrier islands are regarded as a fisherman’s heaven on earth.
Are you a weekend traveler planning memories to last a lifetime and ever wondered “What types of fishing can be done in the OBX?” when visiting the Outer Banks of North Carolina?
You are not alone!
There are plenty of ways to fish here on the Outer Banks. This blog post will guide and educate you on the 4 most popular types of fishing in the OBX.
Beach Fishing
Fun In The Sand
If you do not have a boat or even a kayak, don’t stress. Simply go out the door of your oceanfront vacation rental and cast your line from the sand.
Beach fishing is free along the Outer Banks’ more than 100 miles of lovely, sandy shoreline. A fishing license, a surf rod, bait, a tackle box, and a cooler to hold frozen bait and freshly caught fish are all you’ll need to get started reeling them in! A rod holder, beach chair, and fishing cart are all good choices to bring with you too.
Online, at any NC Division of Marine Fisheries office, and many local tackle shops, fishing licenses are available. A 10-day Coastal Recreational Fishing License, which covers most OBX fishing for ages 16 and up, costs $5 (for NC residents) and $10 (for non-residents). (Children under the age of 16 are exempt.)
Even if you’re an experienced angler, you’ll enjoy the challenging excitement of catching surf fish. So many different types of species may be caught depending on the season and weather.
Do you intend to keep your catch?
Keep in mind the official restrictions. Some species are entirely unrestricted, allowing you to retain as many as you like, no matter the size. Other species, on the other hand, are closely regulated.
Sound Fishing
On A Dock, In The Reeds Or Floating On A Craft
The Outer Banks of North Carolina offer more than just saltwater fishing. To the west, these islands are surrounded by an intricate network of sounds, canals, and inlets where freshwater (from inland rivers) meets salt water (from the Atlantic) to create a brackish blend.
We have rental units that are really close to some amazing sound side spots. You will not have to battle a ton of crowds to get to them either!
These brackish waters provide plenty of attractive food for baitfish thanks to grasses, marshes, and lush flora. Those baitfish, in turn, attract larger game fish that are hungry. As a result, a rich and fertile fishing area has emerged.
Sound fishing is also a great way to use a Stand Up Paddle Board (SUP) or kayak to help you get into the unreachable nooks where fish like to hide.
Both SUP boards and kayaks have their perks. There’s nothing more freeing than getting out on a board and reeling in a monster, and nothing more thrilling than attempting to stay steady while doing so. On the other hand, Kayaks are a far more versatile all-arounder that can get you to locations where a board simply isn’t safe.
It all comes down to your fishing style, physical ability, and personal preference at the end of the day. SUP angling is a lot of fun if you’re fishing calm waters and enjoy a challenge. A kayak would be a better option if you want to pack more gear and don’t want to stand all day. Whichever option you choose, one thing is certain: you will have a great time sound fishing here in the OBX!
Pier Fishing
Access To Bigger Fish
Are you ready to explore a little further from the coast but not too far offshore? Fish from one of the Outer Banks’ legendary ocean piers, which may be found just a few blocks away from our vacation rentals in Kill Devil Hills, Nags Head, Kitty Hawk, and Hatteras Island (Avon and Rodanthe). You won’t need to get individual licenses because blanket licenses cover all piers. You will, however, have to pay a small pier-fishing fee.
If you prefer, bring your own rod and reel. Alternatively, you can usually rent your gear from any pier-side bait-and-tackle shop.
It’s easy to get started. Simply choose a location and cast your line for some truly awesome saltwater species.
Early morning or sunset are, in general, the greatest times to fish from a pier. Moving tides draw a large number of baitfish to the area, which draws the huge and ravenous of the fish kingdom as well.
Pier fishing in the Outer Banks is easy to do, inexpensive, and most importantly, enjoyable. Fishing from a pier is a dream come true, with plenty of fish to catch and a slew of like-minded fishermen to keep you company.
Charters / Fishing Excursions
Dream, explore, and discover culture & tourism on a big boat!
Ready to catch a few large fish farther away from the comforts of your vacation rental on the Outer Banks of North Carolina? Book an offshore fishing trip. These trips can be a little more pricey, but they may be shared among friends and family so it would be worth looking into how many people can come with you on the boat.
The average excursion lasts a full day. You’ll board a specially prepared boat with a seasoned captain and crew and go to the Gulf Stream, where enormous sportfish species thrive. Most charters include bait, equipment, and ice, as well as any necessary information and help. Children are usually allowed on board, allowing the complete family to join in the wonderful event.
Each charter fishing adventure is unique, which adds to the thrill. You must also approach it with an open mind. Don’t get your hopes up by having unrealistic expectations about what you want to capture. There isn’t a tour that isn’t different from the last. Some days are better for catching fish than others, and occasionally the weather just won’t cooperate despite your best efforts.
Culture chasers and bucket listers alike who enjoy charter fishing will undoubtedly be an experience you will not soon forget, whether it is a good or bad day. It always helps to be open-minded and ready for whatever the day throws at you, whether it’s your first or fiftieth excursion deep sea fishing in the OBX.
More To Come …
Make sure to follow this blog for more great fishing-related topics in our series over the next few months! We will be covering what types of fish you can catch in the Outer Banks next month, and we will help you discover some great local spots to cast from in the month after. In the meantime check out some other super fun things to do and until next time, we wish you tight lines!
—
Joe Lamb Jr. & Associates is one of the most trusted vacation rental managers in the local area by growing into a market leader in the Vacation Rental and Sales Industry. Joe Lamb Jr. and his family have played a vital and intricate role in the Outer Banks Community for decades.
Over the past 50+ years, Joe Lamb Jr. & Associates have worked diligently to help promote the Outer Banks for the amazing beach and family vacation destination that it is, helping to increase tourism in the area and grow our beautiful community.
