New Normal, a phrase being thrown around like a Hot Potato. What does Covid 19 and its associated rules and regulations and "safety suggestions" mean for Outer Banks fishing? I'm getting quite a few questions in this connection. If things are taken seriously, The first things that come to mind is Social Distancing with Pier Fishing, how is this "enforced". Next is a Headboat. The basic rule of thumb for CG COI is 18 inches per person amongst a lot of other more technical requirements. 18" wow, that means a reduction of 3 people every 6 feet of rail space. So a 35 passenger boat could only take 12 people. What about the onlookers when the charter fleets return to the Marina???????? Oh I forgot wearing masks. That's only a few thoughts.

Great Questions that need to be answered. The biggest and most important question is about Enforcement. If you don't have proper enforcement, you may as well not have any rules about social distancing. I find it hard to believe that Social Distancing protocols will be followed on a pier when a school of fish comes within casting distance. People will flock to that section of the Pier like seagulls on a Cheeto.

I know in Delaware, where I do most of my fishing, out of state people are not permitted without providing proof they quarantined for a minimum of 14 days unless they happen to be driving through the State. Since its almost impossible to prove, out of state people are not permitted in stores, beaches, Piers Etc. and it is being selectively enforced. However, pictures posted online show people on the piers shoulder to shoulder. Now I ask.... why enforce the out of state policy but not the social distancing? Seems to me the system is flawed.

Good topic. I'm curious about how you plan to handle it Pickle and when you're going to start taking charters again?

John

Ready, Willing and Able to take Charters. First one is Monday, sure in a forecasted Tropical Storm. Oh well. 6 passenger charters plus Captain and Mate are under 10 person gatherings. Social distancing is not mandatory in Family Groups. What about the 12 Bedroom beach houses. Facemasks on the Ocean???????????? Might scare the fish. We'll do whatever it takes to get out there. Tuna fishing is great now. Here fishy, fishy.

Good for you Pickle. Happy to hear you'll soon be back out there and (I'm sure) bring back plenty.

Stay safe and have fun!

John

Just saw a Picture on the front of todays Virginian Pilot Sports Section of the Virginia Beach Fishing Pier. It is open with no Social Distancing and No Masks. I could probably rationalize no masks but people are all close. I guess to each his own!
The Outer Banks Piers are closed?

"To each his own" is exactly right.

If one is concerned about social distancing, then it's probably best to avoid a public pier. If you are not concerned, then have at it and enjoy.

I never really cared for pier fishing. There's usually a sweet spot on the pier where people crowd together, but I like my space and can't stand crowds (long before this virus). I'd rather be 50 ft from the next person and not catching anything than right next to someone catching plenty.

John

I agree John.

Yep, when you catch a decent fish, you then get to say "hi" to your 15 new best friends. Only time I like the pier (most any of them) is sun-up to around 9:00 AM, unless it's bad weather. Then you're generally with people who know how to fish.

Good point about the timing and rain. Both make a huge difference in pier fishing. Still, I'd rather be siting on a beach, shore, boat (or kayak), or even wading with no one else around. Well, except my kids and wife. My daughter loves surf fishing with me, but beyond that I'm usually alone.

A little "me" time that seems to be rare lately. Damn it, now I want to go fishing! My favorite spots have been over run with people lately. Places that wouldn't see 5 people in a week now have 10 solid midday. Need to get these people back to work! Now!

John