Archive for October, 2013
One an Incredible Week
This week I had an opportunity to help introduce some of our Nation’s finest “Wounded Warriors” to the Outer Banks. On Saturday, ten members of the Ft Bragg team arrived with a big fanfare. Their week included a full diet of angling fun.
As usual, the October weather on the Outer Banks was extremely unpredictable. Rain and wind curtailed many of the original plans but as the week went on, things begun to fall into place.
Sound and surf fishing trips on Tuesday and Wednesday gave the team a true picture of what it is like to land some monster puppy drum and speckled trout. A celebration dinner was held in their honor on Tuesday evening.
My turn came on Thursday. Our agenda included a visit the NC aquarium and Jennette’s Pier for lunch and pier fishing.
Our day began with a request to slightly modify our plans; they wanted to see the Wright Brothers Memorial. All week, they have been passing by this impressive monument. But the “closed signs” continued to enhance that disappointment. Now Thursday morning, the television news broadcast hat all parks were finally opened so without hesitation we made plans to visit this historic site. Once on site, I saw the fascination on the face of each member at the “wright brothers” accomplishment.
The aquarium tour went well but the anticipation was not there; the excitement was at the final stop – pier fishing.
We arrived around noon to a prepared lunch and explanation of the basics of pier fishing. But excitement turned to some boredom, when the fish failed to cooperate for almost an hour.
Well, at approximately 1300 hours, things began to change. Suddenly I witnessed one fish come over the rail, then another and then another. Without warning, these amateur turned seasoned anglers were catching huge spot, two fish at a time on their bottom rigs. I spent most of my time re-baiting hooks and removing fish.
Most people would think that this was a great opportunity for these “warriors” to experience angling on the outer banks. But I have to regress – because this helped me understand these soldiers in a way I could have never imagined.
So as I move on, my thoughts will continue to reminisce on this great time.
Until next time, Tightlines. Capt. Tony
Try Looking for Something New
Most anglers have that sweet spot where they are confident for success. They have found that this location historically has been very productive over time. And that feeling gives the angler the satisfaction that fish will be caught. Or at least if no fish are landed, you know it is only a matter of a minor modification to change your luck.
I have a number of sweet spots on the Outer Banks that I use on a regular basis. With these spots, I know the best time of day to fish – the tides that produces the most fish – the snags that hold many of my rigs – just about everything important about this favorite spot. These facts give me that level of accomplishment on each outing help me catch some trophies but also contribute to some disappointments. But as a rule, I return to this place as often as possible because I am comfortable there. I know we all have those spots.
OK – so now let’s get uncomfortable. Let’s see if we can change our scenery.
Today, I explored the Mann’s Harbor Pier – better known as BeBop’s Multi-Purpose Pier – Hwy 64/264. The Mann’s Harbor Pier is located at the west end of the William B. Umstead bridge (old bridge). Fishing, crabbing, purple martin viewing as well as great photography makes this a “must visit” location.
The pier is handicapped friendly with several benches as well as a sun-shaded awning about mid-pier. The pier was constructed to accommodate both recreation and relaxation. It also faces northeast so it gives you access to the rapid current that flows from the Albemarle into the Croatian sound. This fast current makes it a perfect ambush spot for aggressive feeders.
During my visit to this new find, I caught a Bluefish and Puppy Drum on a jig head and spot and croaker on a standard bottom rig. Although, all were throw-backs, I enjoyed the time.
So if you are ready to try something new – jumping out of your comfort zone, then the Mann’s Harbor – BeBop Multi-Purpose Pier is for you.
Capt.’s Tip: Bring your bug spray. This area is adjacent to wetlands – so don’t let bugs ruin your day.
Until next time,Tightlines – Capt. Tony
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