Things to know about Jennette's Pier

The Outer Banks in North Carolina draws in thousands of people every year that come simply to enjoy its different kind of beauty and exceptional fishing options. In 1939, a new chapter in the history of the Outer Banks began with the building of Jennette's Pier at Nags Head. Not only was this area's first fishing pier but it also marked a new starting point for recreation along coastlines. This pioneer creation went beyond just being one place to fish - it became an emblem for Outer Banks' strength.

Like many sea-side structures, Jennette's Pier is no stranger to hard use from the forces of nature. The pier has endured countless hurricanes and nor'easters over its history, so much so that Hurricane Isabel was one of its most punishing episodes. The storm brought severe flooding, extensive beach erosion and 540 feet of pier structure destroyed - a scene of total ruin for this famous local landmark.

The Modern Reconstruction

After Isabel tore away Jennette's pier, the North Carolina Aquariums department, headed by Governor Beverly Perdue, and local officials joined forces in a massive rethinking of the place. Recognizing that they also needed to construct something more able to resist nature's force, they launched an ambitious $25 million redevelopment in 2009. On May 21, 2011, modern engineering triumphed over nature and returned it to its rightful home. A 1,000-foot long concrete platform was built for fishing, special events and educational programs.

Fishing at Jennette's Pier

Jennette's Pier is situated in waters where some of the East Coast's best fishing can be done. There are different species of fish that one can find here like the red drum, striped bass, rockfish, bluefin tuna and mahi-mahi. The pier updates the day's fishing reports daily on its website and Facebook page so that visitors can schedule their visits with a high probability of good fortune in catching fish.

A Multi-Use Venue

Though fishing still forms its heart, Jennette's Pier has grown far beyond being only a fisherman's jaunt. The facility serves as a education site, venue to host events, an environmental research laboratory and a place for couples to tie the knot. With that special Nags Head charm and spectacular sea views stretching off into eternity, it is one of the most attractive tourist attractions in the Outer Banks.

General Information for Visitors

Hours of Operation
The pier is open at different times of the year as follows:
May through August: 5 am till midnight
April, September, October, November: 6 am till midnight.
December through March: 8 am till 5 pm

Fishing Rates & Passes
Daily Adult: $12
Daily Children (12 and under): $6
3-Day Pass: $30
Weekly Pass: $65
Annual Pass: $275
Two-Adult Annual Pass: $400

Pier Access
Adult Walk-On: $2
Children Walk-On: $1

Equipment Rentals
Daily Rod Rental: $10
Pin-Rigs: $3 per day

Conclusion

Located near Nags Head at 7223 S Virginia Dare Trail, Jennette's Pier is a must see for Outer Banks vacationers. Whether you're an avid angler, an inquisitive tourist, or planning a special event, there's something here for everyone. The environmentalism at Jennette's Pier can be seen in its design and its daily operations.

Those iconic wind turbines at the pier are not just for show, they are an outgrowth of a broader commitment to environmental stewardship. Together with water-recycling systems as well as education programs, Jennette's Pier stands as an exemplary model for sustainable coastal development.

Jennette's Pier isn't just a fishing spot, it embodies the world's oldest sand ridge and offers a tantalizing glimpse of Outer Banks' past, present and future. From its founding in 1939 to modernization as a state-of-the-art fisheries complex, the pier is still jolly well visible amid waves and storms.

Whether you're throwing out a line, celebrating an important milestone or simply taking in some of the most spectacular ocean views, Jennette's Pier offers a distinctly Outer Banks experience not to be missed.