What fishing tackle is best for NC pier fishing?

Fishing from piers in North Carolina can be a fun and successful method of catching various fish. To ensure the best chances of a productive expedition, it's essential to bring appropriate fishing tackle. Here's a guide to help you equip yourself with the essential gear for pier fishing in North Carolina:

Rod: A medium-weight spinning or baitcasting rod of 7 to 10 feet is usually suitable for pier fishing in North Carolina. This length provides enough casting distance while still offering adequate control for fighting fish near the pier. Select a rod with moderate to medium-fast action to handle a wide range of lures and baits.

Reel: Pair your rod with a spinning or baitcasting reel that complements the rod's weight. Generally, a reel in the 3000 to 4000 size range is suitable for pier fishing. Look for a reel that has a smooth drag system to control the fight with larger fish.

Fishing Line: Monofilament or braided line can be used for pier fishing. Monofilament line is more affordable, has some stretch, and is less visible in the water. Braided line is stronger, more sensitive, and less prone to tangles, but it's also more expensive and more visible in the water. Choose a line in the 15 to 30-pound test range for most pier fishing situations.

Leaders: When fishing with live baits or lures susceptible to teeth, consider adding a leader made of monofilament or fluorocarbon line. For instance, a 12 to 18-inch fluorocarbon leader can be attached to the end of your main line to prevent bite-offs from predators like bluefish or Spanish mackerel.

Lures and Baits: Depending on the season and target fish species, various lures and baits can be used while pier fishing in North Carolina. Some popular options include:

- Live baits: Live shrimp, minnows, and cut baits are some of the go-to baits for species like flounder, trout, and drum.

- Artificial lures: Jigs, spoons, and bucktail jigs are versatile lures that can attract various fish species. MirrOlure MirrOdines, Gotcha plugs, and Sea Striker King Mackerel lures are popular choices for pier fishing in NC.

- Fishing Rigs: If you plan on using live or cut bait, consider using rigs like bottom rigs or fish finder rigs to present your bait at the appropriate depth and catch a variety of species.

Hooks and Sinkers: The size and type of hooks and sinkers you use depend on the target species and the size of the baits or lures you're using. Generally, circle hooks or bait hooks in the size 1 to 4 range are suitable for pier fishing. Bring different weight sinkers varying from 1 to 3 ounces to adjust your bait depth and cast distance in varying water currents and depths.

Other Accessories: In addition to the essential fishing tackle, consider bringing a few additional items for a more successful pier fishing experience:

- Fishing net: A landing net is useful for safely bringing caught fish onto the pier.

- Pliers: A pair of pliers can come in handy for various tasks like removing hooks, cutting lines, and straightening out lures.

- Fish gripper: A fish gripper can provide a secure hold on fish and make it easier to handle and release them.

- Sunscreen, hat, and polarized sunglasses: Protect yourself from the sun, and polarized sunglasses can help you see through surface glare and spot submerged structures or fish.

- Fishing License: Remember to obtain a valid fishing license before fishing in North Carolina. Most piers have a license vendor nearby, or you can purchase one online or through a sporting goods store.

Remember that the specific tackle and techniques used for pier fishing in North Carolina can vary depending on the time of year, targeted fish species, and individual preferences. By taking into account the general recommendations provided here, you can prepare yourself with the right fishing tackle to enjoy a successful day on the piers of North Carolina.