“If you ever wondered why fishing is probably the most popular sport in this country, watch that boy beside you on the water, and you will learn. If you are really perceptive, you will. For he already knows that fishing is only one part fish.” – Hal Borland
The folks who own and run Miss Oregon Inlet II, a 60-foot head boat, definitely understand why fishing is the most popular sport. They’ve known it for several generations, from great grandfather who started the head boat tours to grandfather to father to daughter to present-day daughter Lillie, who now runs the show. Ask her how many times she’s watched the new-found joy of fishing come over a child’s face as she reels in her first catch. Or ask her about the bond she witnesses as the entire family, from baby to elders, gets to share time on the water, whether they’re fishing, watching the incredible nature show or just sitting still with the sun on their faces.
When you book a head boat trip, you pay by the head – per person, in other words – so it’s a very affordable way to have a fun adventure. The vessel is large and sturdy, and the ride is smooth, so no matter your age or physical condition, you feel safe. You’re welcome to bring your own cooler and snacks, and note that there is a bathroom on board. And if you’re a novice angler, no worries! There are mates on board specifically to help you bait your hook, take your fish off the hook and answer any questions.
The captain of Miss Oregon Inlet II, Capt. Ben Brown, is a history buff and a naturalist. He regales you with stories of the wildlife you’re seeing as well as pieces of local lore about the area’s history, which is rich in Civil War and WWII stories as well as a maritime past that Capt. Ben brings to life.
Along with being affordable for the whole family or group, Miss Oregon Inlet II runs lots of options for getting out on these Outer Banks waters. You can choose from morning or mid-day trips, twilight excursions (always very popular), dolphin and sunset tours, most of which stay inshore, but some of the mid-day trips also go into the ocean. New this year, they’ve also added a full-day ocean-fishing experience, which, as with select mid-day ocean fishing excursions, goes beyond the inlet but you’re always in sight of land. You can also rent the boat for private events such as weddings or parties.
All the details for booking trips are found on their website, and you can book right from there or by calling Oregon Inlet Fishing Center.
“If I fished only to capture fish, my fishing trips would have ended long ago.” — Zane Grey
“Fishing provides that connection with the whole living world. It gives you the opportunity of being totally immersed, turning back into yourself in a good way.” — Ted Hughes
Oregon Inlet Fishing Center
8770 Oregon Inlet Road
Nags Head, NC 27959
Call us at (252) 441-6301
missoregoninlet.com
About the Author Beth P. Storie
Beth Storie first came to the Outer Banks for the summer of 1976. She fell in love with the area and returned for good three years later. She and her husband published the national guidebook series, The Insiders' Guides, for more than 20 years and now are building OneBoat guides into another national brand. After spending time in many dozens of cities around the country, she absolutely believes that her hometown of Manteo is the best place on earth, especially when her two children, six cats and one dog are there too.
