Veteran Volunteers Guide Locals and Visitors Toward the Perfect Catch in Nags Head

By Noreen Kompanik
Jan. 19, 2023

At Jennette’s Pier in Nags Head, fishing means more than reeling something in. Visitors also get an introduction to nearby marine life, the conservation work connected to the North Carolina Aquarium, and the ocean knowledge shared by veterans who call the area home and volunteer to make the experience memorable for others.

Jennette’s Pier, a landmark of the Outer Banks, is the longest pier in the OBX extending 1,000 feet over the Atlantic. Since businessman Warren Jennette first built it in 1939, the pier has endured hurricane damage and years of wear, yet it has continued to be reconstructed. During a fall trip to the Outer Banks, the author and fellow travel writers spent a morning fishing there. Anglers may buy a daily fishing pass for $15 for adults and $10 for children (12 and under), or choose a walk-on option for $2. For those who did not bring gear, rods and reels were available to rent for $12, which is where the learning and enjoyment really began. Prices may differ from that visit, so calling ahead is recommended for current numbers. Inside the aquarium, a dry erase board shows recent catches from the pier, which can vary by season and may include black drum, bluefish, cobia, croaker, dolphin (mahi mahi), flounder, king mackerel, red drum, and other species.

Associate Director and Communications Manager of Jennette’s Pier, Daryl Law, joined two veteran volunteers in matching each guest with the right fishing pole and teaching the basics of casting and reeling. Depending on each person’s skill level and confidence, the volunteers may assist with anything from baiting the hook to casting the line over the pier rail. Before the group even made a first cast, another angler caught a puffer fish. Veteran volunteer Rick Probst explained that puffer fish defend themselves from predators by expanding into a spiky ball several times larger than normal. Although catching one is exciting, they are toxic to humans and not edible, so it was returned to the water.

Rick served 20 years in the Army, including two tours in Korea, one in Germany, and service with the Multinational Forces. When his wife hoped to relocate to the beach, they chose the Outer Banks in part because of his affection for fishing from Jennette’s Pier. He also appreciated how engaged the local military community is, with active participation in many area events, including holiday parades. Probst currently serves as commander of the American Legion- VFW membership. After retiring a second time from work as a fishing instructor, Rick joined the Jennette’s Pier volunteer program after Marine Corps retiree Ken Partlow encouraged him to become involved. A newer member of the volunteer group, retired Navy veteran Tony Imperiale, also brings a lifelong connection to the water.

The group of journalists was thrilled when the first person brought in a fish. The next catches brought more laughter and excitement, and the volunteer instructors celebrated right along with them. Not everyone caught a fish that morning, but the time on the pier, the sweeping ocean views, and the lessons about local marine life made the experience worthwhile.

The source page includes quoted remarks from Rick Probst, Tony Imperiale, and American producer, director, and musician Adrian Grenier. Their comments center on the joy of helping children and visitors, sharing fishing knowledge, protecting marine life and the environment, giving back to the community, and finding meaning through service. The people and organizations connected to these remarks include Jennette’s Pier, Daryl Law, Rick Probst, Tony Imperiale, Ken Partlow, the American Legion- VFW membership, and Adrian Grenier. After a morning with Daryl, Rick, and Tony at Jennette’s Pier, their enthusiasm for fishing and for supporting both locals and visitors was clear.

Categories

• History & Heritage
• Art & Culture
• Sustainability
• Outdoor Enthusiast

Tags

• veteran

Author

Noreen Kompanik is a retired registered nurse and legal nurse consultant who became a travel journalist. She began travel writing in 2014 and has published over 700 articles across digital and print outlets.

She serves as editor of Travel by Vacation Rental Magazine, assistant editor of Food, Wine, Travel Magazine, and senior writer for GoNOMAD. Noreen also contributes regularly to Travel Pulse, San Diego Explorer, Edible San Diego Magazine, International Living, Europe Up Close, and others, and she co-created Travel Writers University with her business partner, Kristi Dosh.