Bonner Bridge Pier
A preserved section of the old Bonner Bridge, now a popular fishing pier offering scenic views of Oregon Inlet and abundant marine life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Catch the best light for photos.
Bonner Bridge Pier
Best Time
Catch the best light for photos.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A preserved section of the old Bonner Bridge, now a popular fishing pier offering scenic views of Oregon Inlet and abundant marine life.
"Great place to fish free access, free parking, small beach and walking trails, places to fish around the pier."
🎣 Bring Your Fishing Gear
Pack all your fishing essentials, bait, and tackle. Amenities are minimal, so come prepared!
💧 Pack Food & Hydration
Shops are a drive away. Bring snacks and plenty of water for your visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Oregon Inlet Fishing
Bonner Bridge Pier
Cast a line into Oregon Inlet and try your luck at catching flounder, or other local species. A popular spot for anglers!
Scenic Views & Photography
Bonner Bridge Pier
Enjoy stunning views of the inlet and the new Marc Basnight Bridge. Perfect for capturing coastal landscapes and sunsets.
Exploring the Inlet Shoreline
Near Bonner Bridge Pier
Discover hermit crabs and small fish along the shoreline. The nearby Mountains to Sea Trail offers a chance to explore.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Fishing & Exploring Oregon Inlet
Coastal Erosion Awareness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎣 Bring Your Fishing Gear
Pack all your fishing essentials, bait, and tackle. Amenities are minimal, so come prepared!
💧 Pack Food & Hydration
Shops are a drive away. Bring snacks and plenty of water for your visit.
📸 Capture the Views
The pier offers great photo opportunities, especially at sunset.
🐾 Dog-Friendly Trails Nearby
Dogs aren't allowed on the pier, but they can join you on the Mountains to Sea Trail.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎣 Bring Your Fishing Gear
Pack all your fishing essentials, bait, and tackle. Amenities are minimal, so come prepared!
💧 Pack Food & Hydration
Shops are a drive away. Bring snacks and plenty of water for your visit.
📸 Capture the Views
The pier offers great photo opportunities, especially at sunset.
🐾 Dog-Friendly Trails Nearby
Dogs aren't allowed on the pier, but they can join you on the Mountains to Sea Trail.
🦀 Explore the Shoreline
Look for hermit crabs and small fish near the pier.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Bonner Bridge Pier for its free access, ample parking, and excellent fishing opportunities in Oregon Inlet. Many enjoy the scenic views and the chance to explore the shoreline, finding cool shells and observing marine life. While amenities are basic, the pier offers a rewarding experience for anglers and sightseers alike.
"Great place to fish free access, free parking, small beach and walking trails, places to fish around the pier"
Hookset 71
"It was amazing I went to the end looked Beautiful found a cool fish hook such right in my foot great picture Opportunities."
Edward Knight
"Fragment of the old bridge that has been preserved for fishing in Oregon Inlet. Updated parking area with port-o-potties and a trash bin. Some times of day the new bridge provided shade as you fish. Dogs are not allowed on the pier/bridge, but are allowed on the nearby Mountains to Sea Trail which goes out to the beach."
LR P
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Bonner Bridge Pier is located in Oregon Inlet, accessible via Highway 12 on Hatteras Island. It's a preserved section of the old Bonner Bridge, now a fishing pier. You'll drive over the new Marc Basnight Bridge to reach it.
Yes, there is an updated parking area available at the pier, which includes port-o-potties and trash bins.
While the pier itself is for fishing and exploring the inlet, the nearby Mountains to Sea Trail leads out to the beach, offering access to the shoreline.
Absolutely! It's a great spot for a few hours of fishing, exploring, and enjoying the coastal scenery. Just be sure to pack everything you need.
Most visitors drive to the Outer Banks. Depending on your starting point, you'll likely take major highways to coastal North Carolina and then head towards Hatteras Island via Highway 12.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Access to the Bonner Bridge Pier is free, making it an accessible and enjoyable spot for all visitors.
The pier is generally open 24/7, allowing for fishing and exploration at any time. However, it's always a good idea to check for any temporary closures or advisories.
Yes, a North Carolina fishing license is required for individuals 16 years and older to fish in the state's public waters, including the Bonner Bridge Pier.
Regulations regarding size and bag limits for various fish species apply. It's recommended to check the North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries regulations for current rules.
Currently, there are no on-site rental facilities for fishing gear at Bonner Bridge Pier. It's best to bring your own equipment.
🎫 🎣 Onsite Experience
Anglers often catch flounder, red drum, bluefish, and other species common to the Oregon Inlet. 
The pier offers basic amenities including port-o-potties and trash bins. There are no food or drink concessions on-site.
Crowds can vary, with weekends and peak fishing seasons being busier. Early mornings and late afternoons often offer a more relaxed experience.
Be mindful of slippery surfaces, especially when wet. Watch your step for fishing hooks and be aware of your surroundings.
Many anglers find success during the early morning and late afternoon hours when fish are more active. The shade from the new bridge can also be a plus during the day.
📸 📸 Photography
The end of the pier offers expansive views of the inlet and the new bridge. The surrounding shoreline also provides scenic backdrops.
Sunrises and sunsets provide dramatic lighting and colors over the water. Cloudy days can also create moody and atmospheric shots.
Look for wildlife like seabirds, or the interesting textures of the old bridge structure. You might even spot marine life in the water.
Drone usage is subject to FAA regulations and local restrictions. It's advisable to check current rules before flying a drone in the area.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
🎣 Anglers & Fishing Enthusiasts
Consider visiting during peak fishing seasons or when local tournaments are held for a more lively atmosphere. Even if you're not an avid angler, watching others reel in their catches can be quite entertaining. Remember to check the latest fishing reports for the best chances of success.
📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers
+1Beyond the bridges, explore the shoreline for unique shots of marine life, seabirds, and the ever-changing coastal landscape. The nearby Mountains to Sea Trail also offers opportunities for nature photography.
👨👩👧 Families Exploring the Coast
It's a great place for a scenic walk and to learn about the local environment. Remember to pack snacks and drinks, as amenities are limited. The nearby Mountains to Sea Trail is also a good option for a family-friendly stroll.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Preservation of Bonner Bridge Pier
This transformation from a functional roadway to a recreational pier highlights a commitment to maintaining the character and appeal of the Outer Banks. The pier provides a unique vantage point to appreciate the engineering of both the old and new bridges, as well as the dynamic natural environment of the Oregon Inlet.
Visitors can explore the pier and imagine the traffic that once crossed it, while now enjoying the tranquility of the inlet and the thrill of fishing. It's a testament to adaptive reuse and a valuable addition to the recreational offerings of Hatteras Island.
Fishing at Oregon Inlet
+1Many visitors come specifically for the bonner bridge fishing opportunities. The pier's structure provides a stable platform, and its location in the inlet means you're fishing in active waters. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, the pier offers a great chance to experience the excitement of saltwater fishing.
Remember to check local fishing regulations, including licensing requirements and size/bag limits, before you cast your line. Bringing your own gear, bait, and plenty of water is essential, as amenities are limited.
Coastal Erosion and the Outer Banks
While the Bonner Bridge Pier itself is a preserved structure, the surrounding areas are subject to the forces of nature. The shoreline can change rapidly, and understanding these dynamics is crucial for visitors. The fact that houses built in 1992 are now so close to the water is a stark reminder of this ongoing process.
It's important for visitors to be aware of these environmental changes and to respect the power of the ocean. While the pier offers a safe and accessible way to experience the coast, always be mindful of weather conditions and any advisories issued by local authorities.
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