Historical Context

Origins and Early Years (1939–1940s)

Jennette’s Pier, located in Nags Head, North Carolina, holds the distinction of being the first fishing pier on the Outer Banks. Construction began on May 22, 1939, under the direction of Warren H. Jennette Sr. and his sons. They built a 754-foot wooden pier on the site of a former Works Progress Administration (WPA) transient camp, repurposing existing cabins to host visiting anglers.

The original structure, built with untreated lumber, collapsed in 1942 due to harsh marine conditions. The Jennette family quickly rebuilt the pier in 1945, cementing its place as a popular destination for recreational fishing and coastal tourism.

Challenges and Rebuilds (1950s–1990s)

Throughout its history, Jennette’s Pier endured countless challenges, including damage from shipwrecks, marine borers, nor’easters, and hurricanes. Despite these setbacks, the structure was repeatedly repaired and modernized. In 1996, a significant renovation added a 9,000-square-foot pier house, restaurant, game room, improved cottages, and expanded parking—bringing a new era of accessibility and comfort to the facility.

Destruction and Renewal (2000s–2011)

In 2002, the North Carolina Aquarium Society purchased the pier with plans to convert it into an educational outreach facility. Before renovations could begin, Hurricane Isabel struck in 2003, destroying more than 500 feet of the pier. In response, the state of North Carolina allocated $25 million for reconstruction. The new pier, built of reinforced concrete and extending 1,000 feet into the Atlantic, officially reopened on May 21, 2011. Designed for both fishing and environmental education, the new facility includes classrooms, alternative energy exhibits, and a strong commitment to sustainability.

Historic Bluefin Tuna Event (April 8, 2025)

On April 8, 2025, Jennette’s Pier made fishing history when three Atlantic bluefin tuna were caught and released from the pier—an event that had never been documented before from shore along the East Coast. The tuna, estimated to weigh between 150 and 300 pounds each, drew crowds and national attention.

This event helped catalyze Operation Inflate: The Bluefin Uprising, a movement advocating for updated federal regulations to acknowledge land-based tuna fishing. The incident prompted a response from NOAA enforcement, who reminded anglers that targeting bluefin tuna without a federally permitted vessel—even from shore—is currently prohibited under HMS regulations. In response, Operation Inflate organizers launched a formal petition to revise the HMS rulebook.

Support the movement: Sign the Petition to Legalize Shore-Based Bluefin Tuna Tag-and-Release Fishing

Present Day

Today, Jennette’s Pier stands as a premier destination on the Outer Banks, seamlessly blending recreational fishing, environmental education, and sustainable practices. Operated by the North Carolina Aquariums, the pier extends 1,000 feet into the Atlantic Ocean and serves as both a fishing hotspot and a center for marine science education.

Jennette’s Pier continues to be a symbol of resilience and innovation, offering visitors a unique blend of leisure, education, and commitment to environmental conservation.

Amenities

• Length: 1,000 feet into the Atlantic Ocean.
• Structure: Reinforced concrete designed for durability against harsh weather conditions.
• Lighting: Equipped with full-length lighting suitable for night fishing.
• Fish Cleaning Stations: Available on-site for anglers.
• Parking: Ample free parking adjacent to the pier.
• Restrooms: Public restrooms and outdoor showers accessible to visitors.
• Additional Amenities: Features a pier house with a tackle shop, snack bar, gift shop, educational exhibits, and event spaces available for rent.

Fish Species and Techniques

1. Bluefish

Techniques: Casting metal spoons or Gotcha plugs; trolling with small lures.

Best Months: April to October.

2. Flounder

Techniques: Bottom fishing with live minnows or jigging near the pier pilings.

Best Months: May to September.

3. Spanish Mackerel

Techniques: Fast retrieval of small spoons or jigs; trolling with mackerel trees.

Best Months: June to August.

4. Red Drum (Redfish)

Techniques: Bottom fishing with cut bait or live bait near the surf zone.

Best Months: September to November.

5. King Mackerel

Techniques: Slow trolling with live bait or large plugs; using king rigs from the end of the pier.

Best Months: September to October.

Fishing Calendar