Best Fishing Piers in the Beaufort Area, NC: Expert Tips and Insights

If you plan to fish in Beaufort, you are in for a treat. This region has several fishing piers catering to seasoned anglers and beginners. Beaufort and its surroundings have rich marine life and a mild climate, and excellent fishing spots attract anglers of all types, making it a perfect place to relax. 

Below, we examine some of the top fishing piers around Beaufort. You'll find essential information about each location, including the best fish to catch, peak fishing times, amenities, and expert tips. We also provide insights into the local weather conditions, which can significantly influence your fishing experience.

Top 6 Fishing Piers in the Beaufort Area

In the Beaufort area, there are several fishing piers. Today, we highlight six of the best. These include Newport River Pier and Ramp, Oceanana Fishing Pier & Pier House Restaurant, Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier, Beaufort Fishing Pier, Cedar Point Fishing Pier, and Straits Fishing Pier.

Each of these piers offers unique fishing opportunities. Let's take a closer look at each pier. You will get all the essential information!

Newport River Pier and Ramp

Newport River Pier and Ramp is a popular fishing spot near Beaufort. It offers easy access to the Newport River. It attracts anglers seeking inshore fishing opportunities.

• Species to Catch: Red Drum, Speckled Trout, Flounder, Sheepshead 
• Season: Year-round
• Best Fishing Times: Early morning, late evening
• Entrance Fee: Free
• Address: 301 Highway 70, Beaufort, NC
• Key Benefits: Convenient location, boat ramp access
• Recommended Baits: Live shrimp, mud minnows, cut bait

This location provides various inshore species, including Red Drum, Speckled Trout, Flounder, and Sheepshead. Specific fishing regulations protect the marine life in these waters, so check the local rules before fishing. 

Oceanana Fishing Pier & Pier House Restaurant

Oceanana Fishing Pier is a historic pier in Atlantic Beach. It offers a full-service fishing experience. Restaurant and tackle shop on-site are available here. King Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel, Bluefish, Flounder, and Red Drum are the most prized species here.

• Species to Catch: King Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel, Bluefish, Flounder, Red Drum
• Season: Year-round
• Best Fishing Times: Sunrise and sunset
• Entrance Fee: $12 
• Address: 700 E Fort Macon Rd, Atlantic Beach, NC
• Key Benefits: Oceanfront location, on-site restaurant
• Recommended Baits: Live baitfish, cut bait, artificial lures

Since 1959, Oceanana Pier has been a popular destination for anglers of all skill levels. It offers an excellent full day of fishing and relaxation in Atlantic Beach, along with its restaurant featuring fresh local seafood.

Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier

Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier is a well-known fishing pier in Emerald Isle. It provides deep-water access and attracts serious anglers.

• Species to Catch: King Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel, Pompano, Flounder, Bluefish
• Season: March to December (closed in January and February)
• Best Fishing Times: Early morning, dusk
• Entrance Fee: $10
• Address: 100 Bogue Inlet Dr, Emerald Isle, NC
• Key Benefits: Deep water fishing, beautiful views, and a bait shop available
• Recommended Baits: Live mullet, cut bait, shrimp, artificial lures

The pier is one of the best spots for catching a variety of coastal fish. You can expect to catch species such as King Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel, and Pompano. Make sure to check the current hours and seasons before your fishing trip, as they can change.

Beaufort Fishing Pier

Beaufort Fishing Pier is a quiet, scenic fishing spot along Taylor Creek in Beaufort. It is great for inshore fishing and relaxation.

• Species to Catch: Red Drum, Speckled Trout, Flounder, Sheepshead
• Season: Year-round
• Best Fishing Times: Early morning, late evening
• Entrance Fee: Free
• Address: 2370 Lennoxville Road, Beaufort, NC
• Key Benefits: Calm waters, easy access, great for inshore species
• Recommended Baits: Live shrimp, mud minnows, cut bait

This is an excellent place for anglers looking for a relaxed fishing experience. The nearby amenities make it convenient for family outings.

Cedar Point Fishing Pier

Cedar Point Fishing Pier is a popular destination for anglers seeking a peaceful yet productive fishing experience. It is nestled in the heart of Cedar Point. This spacious pier provides excellent access to inshore waters. Easy accessibility is a great advantage of this pier. 

• Species to Catch: Red Drum, Black Drum, Speckled Trout, Flounder
• Season: Year-round
• Best Fishing Times: Early morning, late evening
• Entrance Fee: Free
• Address: 144 Cedar Point Blvd, Cedar Point, NC
• Key Benefits: Large fishing platform, picnic area, parking available
• Recommended Baits: Live shrimp, artificial lures, cut bait

This location is more than just a fishing spot. It's a great place to unwind and spend time with family. The picnic area adds to its appeal. It's the perfect spot for a full day outdoors. 

Straits Fishing Pier

Straits Fishing Pier is a tranquil location nestled near Harkers Island. This hidden gem provides anglers with access to rich inshore waters. The serene surroundings and productive fishing waters make it an excellent destination for anglers of all skill levels, offering a peaceful, relaxing experience. 

• Species to Catch: Red Drum, Speckled Trout, Flounder, Sheepshead
• Season: Year-round
• Best Fishing Times: Sunrise and sunset
• Entrance Fee: Free
• Address: 1651 Harkers Island Rd, NC
• Key Benefits: Scenic location, great for targeting inshore species
• Recommended Baits: Live shrimp, mud minnows, cut bait

This pier could be an excellent choice if you want to catch inshore species. While fishing, anglers can enjoy the quiet beauty of Harkers Island. The pier offers free access, so you can make the most of your fishing experience without worrying about fees. 

More About the Beaufort Area

Beaufort, North Carolina, is a coastal town steeped in history and a strong fishing culture. Founded in 1709, Beaufort is the third-oldest town in North Carolina. Its historical significance and vibrant marinas attract thousands of visitors each year, offering a unique connection to the town's heritage.

Beaufort, despite its small size, offers a vibrant atmosphere, with its bustling marinas and a picturesque downtown filled with historic homes and shops. It's a town that welcomes you with open arms. 

Beaufort is located on the Crystal Coast, along the southeastern coast of North Carolina. It is on Taylor Creek, a narrow waterway that separates the town from Carrot Island and the Rachel Carson Reserve. The town is popular for kayaking, birdwatching, and nature tours. Its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the Outer Banks provides anglers with inshore and offshore fishing opportunities.

Beyond fishing, Beaufort offers numerous attractions. The North Carolina Maritime Museum provides insight into the region's maritime heritage, including artifacts from the infamous pirate Blackbeard's ship, the Queen Anne's Revenge. The historic district features well-preserved 18th and 19th-century homes. Nearby, the Beaufort Historic Site offers a glimpse into early life on the coast.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the area surrounding Beaufort is perfect for boating, paddleboarding, and exploring unspoiled barrier islands. Shackleford Banks is just a short boat ride away and is known for its wild horses, sandy beaches, and excellent shelling opportunities. Cape Lookout Lighthouse stands tall on a nearby island, offering breathtaking coastline views.

Fishing Regulations and Licenses in the Beaufort Area, NC

Before fishing, make sure you know the local fishing rules. Here's what you need to understand:

• Fishing Licenses: If you are 16 or older and fishing in coastal waters, you usually need a license. However, if a public pier has a blanket license, you may not need an individual one. Always confirm the pier rules before you go.
• Catch Limits: North Carolina has rules for daily bag limits and size limits for different fish species. These limits help keep fish populations healthy.
• Seasonal Restrictions: Some fish species have seasonal closures to protect them during spawning. 

Fishing rules and licenses can be changed over time. To stay up-to-date, visit the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) website. 

Final Thoughts

The Beaufort area offers a fantastic fishing experience. Its well-placed piers provide access to diverse fish species and beautiful coastal scenery. With mild weather year-round and rich marine life, this region is a true haven for fishing enthusiasts.

Have you had the chance to fish at any of these piers? Which one is your favorite? We'd love to hear about your experiences!

Disclaimer: The images used in this article may not be of specific piers, even though we always strive to provide an accurate shot. Our team has manually checked all the data. We strive to keep all information current; some details may occasionally become outdated.