Historical Context

Seaview Fishing Pier, originally known as Salty’s Pier, is located in North Topsail Beach, North Carolina. It has been a significant part of the local landscape since its establishment. The pier was initially constructed in the early 1970s and quickly became a popular destination for both locals and visitors.

Salty’s Pier faced significant challenges, including damage from hurricanes and storms, particularly Hurricane Fran in 1996. Following this, the pier was reconstructed and rebranded as Seaview Fishing Pier. The reconstruction efforts focused on using more durable materials and improving the design to better withstand future storms. Key enhancements included modern railings, improved lighting for night fishing, and the addition of benches and fish cleaning stations.

Seaview Fishing Pier has continually faced environmental challenges, such as hurricanes and tropical storms, which have caused considerable damage over the years. Regular maintenance and community support have been crucial in keeping the pier operational and safe for visitors.

Recent upgrades at Seaview Fishing Pier have focused on enhancing the overall visitor experience. These improvements include installing energy-efficient lighting, upgrading restroom facilities, and improving accessibility features. The surrounding area has also been developed to offer more parking, picnic areas, and shaded spots, making it a more inviting destination for families and anglers.

Pier Specifics and Amenities

• Length: Over 1,000 feet, making it one of the longest piers on the North Carolina coast.
• Lighting: Enhanced lighting for night fishing.
• Fish Cleaning Stations: Equipped with running water.
• Benches: Numerous benches for relaxation.
• Parking: Ample parking space available near the pier.
• Restrooms: Upgraded facilities available for visitors.
• Accessibility: Improved features for better accessibility.
• Additional Amenities: The surrounding area includes picnic areas and shaded spots.

Fish Species and Fishing Techniques

The waters around Seaview Fishing Pier are rich with a variety of fish species. Here are some of the most common species and effective techniques for catching them:

1. Red Drum (Redfish)

Techniques: Use live bait such as shrimp or mullet, or artificial lures like soft plastics. Fish during tidal changes near structures.

Best Months: March to November.

2. Spotted Seatrout (Speckled Trout)

Techniques: Use live shrimp or baitfish, or artificial lures like topwater plugs and soft plastics. Fish during early morning or late evening.

Best Months: April to October.

3. Flounder

Techniques: Use live bait such as minnows or shrimp, or artificial lures like bucktail jigs. Fish near sandy bottoms and during tidal changes.

Best Months: May to September.

4. Black Drum

Techniques: Use live bait such as shrimp or crabs. Fish near structures and during tidal changes.

Best Months: February to April, October to December.

5. Sheepshead

Techniques: Use live bait such as fiddler crabs or shrimp. Fish near pilings and structures.

Best Months: January to March, October to December.

6. Spanish Mackerel

Techniques: Use small metal lures or live bait such as small fish. Fish near schools of baitfish and during moving tides.

Best Months: May to September.

7. Bluefish

Techniques: Use cut bait like mackerel or bunker, or artificial lures like metal jigs and poppers. Fish near schools of baitfish and during moving tides.

Best Months: April to October.

8. Pompano

Techniques: Use live bait such as sand fleas or shrimp. Fish near sandy bottoms and during rising tides.

Best Months: June to September.

9. Kingfish (Whiting)

Techniques: Use small pieces of shrimp or bloodworms on small hooks. Fish near sandy bottoms and during rising tides.

Best Months: Year-round.

10. Ladyfish

Techniques: Use small live bait or artificial lures like spoons and jigs. Fish near the surface during moving tides.

Best Months: May to October.

Fishing Calendar