What You'll Find at Johnnie Mercer's Pier

Johnnie Mercer's Pier is a 1,000-foot public fishing pier on Wrightsville Beach that extends into the Atlantic, giving you access to both nearshore and deeper-water species depending on the season. You don't need a boat—just walk on, pay the day-use fee, and fish from the deck. The pier is open year-round, though conditions and what's biting change with the water temperature and time of year.

The pier works best for anglers targeting Spanish mackerel, king mackerel, bluefish, and flounder in warmer months, and sea bass, drum, and pompano in cooler water. The structure itself—pilings, cross-braces, and the sandy bottom nearby—holds baitfish and attracts larger predators. You're fishing in 20 to 40 feet of water depending on where you stand on the pier, which is deep enough to reach fish that won't come into the shallows.

Key Takeaways

  • Johnnie Mercer's Pier charges a day-use fee (amount varies by season) and is open year-round from early morning until sunset or later depending on the time of year.
  • Spring and fall bring Spanish mackerel and king mackerel; summer adds bluefish and flounder; winter produces sea bass, drum, and pompano.
  • Bring your own rod and tackle—the pier does not rent equipment, though a small tackle shop is nearby on the beach.
  • The pier gets crowded on weekends and during peak season, so arriving early gives you better access to open rail space and calmer conditions.
  • North Carolina saltwater fishing requires a license unless you are fishing from a public pier, which is exempt from licensing requirements.

When to Fish and What Species to Target

Spring (March through May) is when Spanish mackerel move in, and they're aggressive on small shiny lures and live baitfish. You'll also see bluefish and some early king mackerel. The water is still cool, so fish are hungry and active. Mornings are usually calmer than afternoons, and the bite often slows by midday as the sun climbs.

Summer (June through August) brings the heaviest pier traffic and the most variety. King mackerel, Spanish mackerel, bluefish, and flounder are all present. Flounder fishing is particularly good in early morning and late evening when they're feeding in the shallows near the pier. Bring live mullet or spot for flounder; use small spoons and live baitfish for mackerel.

Fall (September through November) mirrors spring—Spanish mackerel return in force, and the water cools enough that fish feed more consistently throughout the day. This is often the best time to fish the pier because the crowds thin out after Labor Day and the bite remains strong.

Winter (December through February) shifts the focus to black sea bass, red drum, and pompano. The water is cold, and fish move slower, so live bait and patience work better than fast-moving lures. Drum can reach 30 pounds or more, and they'll take live mullet or cut mackerel.

Tackle and Bait That Works

For Spanish and king mackerel, bring medium-weight spinning rods (6 to 7 feet) with 15- to 20-pound test line. Small shiny spoons, metal jigs, and live mullet or spot all work. Mackerel are fast and aggressive, so you don't need heavy tackle—they'll hook themselves.

Flounder fishing calls for a lighter setup: 6-foot medium rod, 10- to 15-pound test, and live baitfish rigged on a simple two-hook rig or a jig head. Cast near the pilings and work the bait slowly along the bottom. Flounder are ambush predators and won't chase, so keep your bait in the strike zone.

For drum and sea bass in winter, use live mullet or fresh-cut mackerel on a basic fish-finder rig. These fish are bottom feeders and don't care about fancy presentations. A 6- to 7-foot medium-heavy rod handles the weight and the occasional snag on the pilings.

Live bait is your most reliable option year-round. A small bait net or a cast net works if you want to catch your own mullet in the shallows, but most anglers buy live spot or mullet from the tackle shop near the pier entrance. Dead shrimp and squid also work for drum and sea bass.

Access, Fees, and Practical Details

Johnnie Mercer's Pier is located at 22 Causeway Drive on Wrightsville Beach. There is a parking lot adjacent to the pier, though it fills quickly on weekends and during summer. Arrive early if you want a may provide spot. The pier charges a day-use fee; the amount depends on whether you're fishing or just walking, and rates may vary by season. Call ahead or check the pier's website for current pricing.

The pier is open from sunrise to sunset most of the year, though hours extend later during summer months. Restrooms are available on the pier. There is no food service on the pier itself, but the nearby tackle shop and beach shops sell snacks and drinks. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water—you'll be exposed to sun and wind for hours.

The pier does not allow coolers on the deck, so bring a small bag or backpack for your catch. Fish cleaning stations are available, though you'll need to ask the pier staff where they're located. If you plan to keep fish, bring a stringer or a small cooler for the walk back to your car.

Fishing the Pilings and Structure

The most productive fishing happens near the pilings and cross-braces that support the pier. Baitfish hide in and around this structure, and larger fish hunt there. Cast your bait or lure tight to the pilings and work it slowly. Be ready for a snag—the structure is also where your line can get caught, so use a slightly heavier leader (20- to 30-pound test) to help you break free if needed.

The middle and far end of the pier fish deeper water and often hold larger fish, but they also get more current and wind. The shallower water near the pier entrance is better for flounder and smaller species. Experiment with different sections to find where fish are feeding on the day you visit.

Early morning and late evening are consistently better than midday, especially in summer. The sun and heat slow the bite, and fish are more active when light levels are low. If you can only fish midday, focus on the shaded side of the pier and fish deeper near the pilings.

What to Bring and What to Leave Behind

Bring your own rods, reels, and tackle. The pier does not rent equipment. Bring multiple rigs in case you lose one to a snag or a large fish. A small tackle box, a pair of pliers for removing hooks, and a net for landing fish are essential. Sunscreen, a hat, and polarized sunglasses reduce glare and help you see fish in the water.

Leave behind anything that will interfere with other anglers. The pier gets crowded, and long rods or large tackle boxes take up space. A small backpack or shoulder bag is better than a full cooler. Do not bring glass bottles—they break and create a hazard on the deck.

Check the weather before you go. Wind and rough water make the pier uncomfortable and can make fishing difficult. A calm day with light wind is ideal. If you see dark clouds or lightning in the distance, leave the pier immediately—it's exposed to the open ocean and offers no shelter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a fishing license to fish from Johnnie Mercer's Pier?

No. Public fishing piers in North Carolina are exempt from licensing requirements. You can fish without a license as long as you're on the pier itself. If you wade or fish from the beach, you'll need a license.

Can I keep every fish I catch?

No. North Carolina has size and bag limits for most species. Spanish mackerel must be at least 12 inches; king mackerel at least 24 inches. Flounder must be 12 inches, and sea bass 10 inches. Bag limits vary by species and change annually, so check the current North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries regulations before you fish.

What's the best time of day to fish the pier?

Early morning (sunrise to 9 a.m.) and late evening (one hour before sunset onward) are most productive. Midday fishing is slower, especially in summer. Overcast days and days with light wind are better than bright, calm days.

Is the pier crowded, and should I avoid certain times?

Yes, the pier is busiest on weekends and during summer vacation. If you prefer fewer people and more elbow room, fish on weekday mornings or visit in fall and spring. Early morning is less crowded than afternoon regardless of the season.

What should I do if I hook a large fish?

Stay calm and keep your rod tip up. Large fish—especially king mackerel and drum—will run hard and test your drag. Don't horse the fish; let your reel do the work and keep steady pressure. If the fish wraps around a piling, you may lose it, but trying to force it usually breaks your line. Other anglers on the pier will likely give you space if you ask them to reel in temporarily.