cape hatteras NC
So the you are looking to take on the big fish, nightmarish sands and rough waters? Cape Hatteras can make or break you as a fisherman. Located on a small island off the coast of NC, you will find the true test of your fishing skills and courage, and we are here to help prepare you!!!
What to expect
The first challenge you must overcome is getting to the water. While normally a simple task, often taken for granted, the Cape Hatteras sands can swallow even the most powerful of vehicles. Often you will pass powerful 4 wheel drive trucks stuck in the sand completely bottomed out. One mistake... this is all it takes to get ya a half day of digging instead of fishing. The second challenge you gotta get pass is the water itself. This is the colliding point of 2 major currents that have sunken many many ships throughout the years. Deadly rip currents that claims multiple lives annually and a undertow that can pull down even the greatest of swimmers. So even holding bottom here can be a challenge at times.
If this hasn’t scared you off enough to click the back button yet then let’s move forward to getting you started on your next memorial fishing adventure!
If this hasn’t scared you off enough to click the back button yet then let’s move forward to getting you started on your next memorial fishing adventure!
Getting through the First challenge...The Sand
The first thing you need to do is stop by the rangers station located at the base of the lighthouse for a off-road vehicle permit. This is required and runs $50 for 10 days. In order to get the permit you have to show proof that your vehicle is 4 wheel drive (not AWD as AWD will not even come close to cutting it out there) You will also need to watch a 30 minute safety video. Once you have you OVP, the next step you have to take is lowering the air pressure in your tires clean down to 10-15 PSI. Don’t worrry there’s air pumps located everywhere including the beach entrance to reinflate your tires. Lowering the pressure in your tires will give you more traction and more surface area. Don’t give into peer pressure, you’ll see MANY people not doing this, you’ll also see many people stuck. The next step is slapping it in 4 wheel drive high. And finally make sure you DO NOT STOP until you reach the point or other fishing spots. If you stop there’s a 75% chance you will get stuck. Do not help anyone out unless you have a full Jeep and experienced at beach driving, if you get stuck too then you’re contributing to the traffic jam.
Make sure you have 2 shovels and atleast 2 4x8 boards to place under your tires in the likely chance you get stuck. A small bottle jack with a board under it can also be helpful. If you do get stuck, even slightly, then expect atleast a hour to get yourself dug out of the sand.
Make sure you have 2 shovels and atleast 2 4x8 boards to place under your tires in the likely chance you get stuck. A small bottle jack with a board under it can also be helpful. If you do get stuck, even slightly, then expect atleast a hour to get yourself dug out of the sand.
Fishing the point
The point has the best fishing on the island and is arguably the best fishing spot in the U.S. so with this in mind you have to be prepared to handle large fish and be able to cast as far as possible. A good solid 12’ or greater rod is needed and a 6000 series reel or larger is a must. Don’t forget, 60lb red drum can be caught here and 20+ pounders can be expected. There is also 500 lbs sharks and very large sting rays, so make sure you are ready for this kind of fishing. Our online store carries everything you will need.
Next, make sure you know how to read a beach, if you are unsure then read this article. You want to use bunker (or ballyhoo) and mullet when fishing there. A great tackle shop that is located right near the ramp is Red Drum Tackle. Very friendly and helpful people there and all the bait you will need. Last but not least, don’t forget to bring plenty of supplies, see this article if unsure
Next, make sure you know how to read a beach, if you are unsure then read this article. You want to use bunker (or ballyhoo) and mullet when fishing there. A great tackle shop that is located right near the ramp is Red Drum Tackle. Very friendly and helpful people there and all the bait you will need. Last but not least, don’t forget to bring plenty of supplies, see this article if unsure
Camping
Usually we suggest several camp grounds in the areas and compare them. This time we are going to only suggest one very good one. Fresco Woods campground was just a wonderful experience. The cabins were very well priced ($55-$65) a night and the size of the cabins were great. They have several options like 2 queen size beds, 1 queen size and 2 sets of full size bunk beds. They sleep 4-6 people nicely and enough room where it was not over crowded. They have several restrooms/shower areas. They have a nice size pool that is surrounded by a stream coming from the sound. They accommodate tents and RV with full electric hookups ect. For what they offer the price is just Fantastic and really they won over our business for life.
We hope this guide helps get you started and prepared for your next adventure. As always if you have any questions feel free to send us a email and we will answer your questions promptly.
