🍂 Fall Fishing on the OBX: A Local’s Guide to Surf, Piers & Tackle Shops

As the summer crowds fade and cooler weather rolls in, fall becomes the perfect season for surf fishing along North Carolina’s Outer Banks. From Corolla to Hatteras, anglers enjoy peaceful beaches, migrating fish, and unforgettable catches.

🎯 What’s Biting: Fall Fish Species on the OBX

Fall surf fishing brings a variety of species to the shoreline:

  • Red Drum – Best at The Point to Nags Head (Sept–Nov)
  • Speckled Trout – Found near Oregon Inlet and Duck (Oct–Nov)
  • Bluefish – Active in Corolla to Hatteras (Sept–Oct)
  • Sea Mullet – Common all over the Outer Banks (Sept–Nov)
  • Pompano – Early fall favorite in Corolla and Salvo
  • Flounder – Found near Buxton and Hatteras (Sept–Oct)

🏖️ Best Surf Fishing Spots & Piers

🌊 Beach Hotspots

  • Cape Point (Hatteras) – Famous for red drum runs
  • Carova Beach (Corolla) – 4WD access, great for pompano
  • Ramp 44 & Ramp 23 – Easy access in Hatteras National Seashore

🎣 Outer Banks Fishing Piers

Pier Name Location Highlights
Jennette’s Pier Nags Head 1,000 ft. long, tackle shop onsite
Rodanthe Pier Rodanthe Drum, cobia, sea mullet
Avon Fishing Pier Avon Fall flounder and bluefish
Outer Banks  Pier Nags Head Home to FishHeads Bar & Grill

🧰 Local Tackle Shops & Gear Essentials

Need bait, gear, or local advice? Visit these trusted shops:

🪱 Recommended Bait

  • Fresh mullet – For drum and bluefish
  • Shrimp – Sea mullet and pompano
  • Bloodworms – Spot and croaker
  • Artificial lures – Soft plastics and spoons for trout and blues

🎟️ NC Saltwater Fishing License Info

To fish legally in the surf, you’ll need a Coastal Recreational Fishing License (CRFL):

  • Available as: 10-day, annual, or lifetime
  • Where to buy: Local tackle shops or NC DEQ’s official site
  • Exemptions: Children under 16

🚙 Beach Driving Permits

Fall allows beach driving in select areas like Nags Head  and Hatteras Island. Check local regulations and secure a permit before driving onto the sand.

🌅 Final Cast

Fall surf fishing on the Outer Banks is more than a pastime—it’s a seasonal tradition. Whether you’re chasing red drum at Cape Point or casting from Jennette’s Pier, the OBX offers unforgettable angling experiences from Corolla to Hatteras.

Looking for a coastal home base for your next fishing adventure? OBX Realty Group is here to help contact Matt Huband today.