Johnnie Mercers Pier
A classic North Carolina fishing pier offering stunning ocean views, great fishing opportunities, and a peaceful coastal escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, best light
Johnnie Mercers Pier
Best Time
Fewer crowds, best light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A classic North Carolina fishing pier offering stunning ocean views, great fishing opportunities, and a peaceful coastal escape.
"A beautiful sight and I love the sunset view. I loved seeing the rise up and the cool breeze that came along."
🎯 No License Needed!
Cast your line without a license! Bait, tackle, and rod rentals are available on-site.
💰 Affordable Access
A small $2 fee grants access for walking or fishing. Paid parking is available nearby.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ocean Views & Breezes
Entire Pier
Enjoy panoramic ocean vistas and refreshing sea breezes. A perfect spot to relax and soak in the coastal atmosphere.
Pier Fishing Action
Fishing areas
Experience the thrill of saltwater fishing. Rent a rod and bait to try your luck catching local species like king mackerel.
Sunset Spectacle
Western end of the pier
Witness breathtaking sunsets painting the sky over the water. A truly magical and peaceful experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Pier Access & Fees
Fishing Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 No License Needed!
Cast your line without a license! Bait, tackle, and rod rentals are available on-site.
💰 Affordable Access
A small $2 fee grants access for walking or fishing. Paid parking is available nearby.
🎣 Catch King Mackerel
This pier is known for king mackerel fishing, especially during the mullet run. +1
📸 Perfect Photo Ops
Capture stunning ocean views and pier architecture. Great for sunset shots! 
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 No License Needed!
Cast your line without a license! Bait, tackle, and rod rentals are available on-site.
💰 Affordable Access
A small $2 fee grants access for walking or fishing. Paid parking is available nearby.
🎣 Catch King Mackerel
This pier is known for king mackerel fishing, especially during the mullet run. +1
📸 Perfect Photo Ops
Capture stunning ocean views and pier architecture. Great for sunset shots!
☕ Snack Bar Delights
Grab a bite at the snack bar – reasonable prices and good food options.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Johnnie Mercers Pier is a well-loved spot offering beautiful ocean views and a great fishing experience without needing a license. Visitors appreciate the affordable access, convenient amenities like the snack bar and bait shop, and the peaceful atmosphere. While primarily a fishing pier, it's also a pleasant place for a stroll and to enjoy the coastal scenery.
"Nice fishing pier at the beach where you can find the oasis of shade under bright sunlight over there! We sat under neath and it was just beautiful place to get ocean breezes to ourselves! Beautiful location, you’ll have to pay $2 dollars to walk on the pier or to do fishing there.
We had a good time! :)"
Mr. No Tengo Dinero
"We have parked in the adjacent lot every time we come to the beach. It is paid parking but easy to get to and get a spot. I don’t always go into the store/pier but I did this visit. The store had great food options and even non alcoholic beer (which I enjoyed!). I’ll stop in hungry next time as the food prices were very reasonable and looked good.
The pier is beautiful and adds nicely to the landscape."
Monica Foley
"Cost 2 dollars to gain access to the pier. Great views of the beach, pier supports and the ocean. Watch your step and keep an eye out for casters who do not clear to the rear before they cast. Truely a fishing pier....for fisherpeople. Privately owned pier on a public state beach...? Saw a baracuda chasing fish bait/lures from the front edge of the piee. Blue sky and blue fish equals blue crab and blue water. NOAA.....scientific station on the pier. Nice wood, sturdy pier, wood needs stained, not much to do than fish and absorb wave sounds. Peir tackle shop is good place for snacks, bait, tackle, trinkets and air conditioning. And get your picture taken on the pier."
T Cloonan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Johnnie Mercers Pier is located in Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina. You can drive to the pier, and there is a paid parking lot adjacent to it. Many visitors find it easy to access and secure a spot.
Yes, there is a paid parking lot directly next to the pier. It's described as convenient and usually has available spots, making it easy to access the pier.
Absolutely! Johnnie Mercers Pier is a popular destination for beachgoers. You can easily walk to it from the beach or from the nearby parking area.
Wrightsville Beach is accessible by car. If you're flying in, the closest major airport is Wilmington International Airport (ILM), which is about a 20-30 minute drive away.
Yes, there are several hotels and vacation rentals near Johnnie Mercers Pier in Wrightsville Beach. Some offer ocean views and are within walking distance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The cost to walk on Johnnie Mercers Pier is $2 per person. This fee also covers access for fishing.
No, you do not need a fishing license to fish from Johnnie Mercers Pier. It's a great spot for those who don't have a license or are visiting from out of state.
Johnnie Mercers Pier is open early and stays open late, providing ample opportunity for fishing and enjoying the ocean views. Specific hours can vary seasonally, so it's best to check closer to your visit.
Yes, you can rent fishing rods and purchase bait and tackle directly at the pier's tackle shop. This makes it very convenient for spontaneous fishing trips.
Yes, Johnnie Mercers Pier is a privately owned pier located on a public state beach.
🎫 🎣 Onsite Experience
Anglers at Johnnie Mercers Pier commonly catch species like king mackerel, bluefish, Spanish mackerel, flounder, and various smaller baitfish. The mullet run is a popular time for catching larger game fish.
The pier offers a tackle shop for bait, tackle, and rentals, as well as a snack bar with food and drinks. Clean restrooms are also available for visitors.
Yes, Johnnie Mercers Pier is a family-friendly destination. Kids can enjoy fishing, watching the waves, and the general beach atmosphere.
Fishing can be good throughout the day, but early mornings and late afternoons often yield the best results. Tides and weather conditions also play a significant role.
The pier occasionally hosts fishing tournaments and events, such as the Donnywood Flounder Tournament. It's worth checking their local reports for any upcoming activities.
📸 📸 Photography
Johnnie Mercers Pier offers fantastic photo opportunities, including panoramic ocean views, dramatic sunsets, the pier's architecture, and the action of anglers fishing.
The 'golden hour' during sunrise and sunset provides the most beautiful light for photography. However, any time of day offers unique coastal scenes.
Drone usage regulations can vary. While some drone footage exists, it's advisable to check local ordinances and FAA guidelines before flying a drone near the pier or beach.
The entire length of the pier provides scenic backdrops. Look for shots that capture the waves crashing below, the vast ocean horizon, and the pier's structure extending into the sea.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive ocean views, while a telephoto lens can be useful for zooming in on fishing action or distant boats. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the sky and water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond fishing, the pier offers beautiful ocean views and a chance to feel the sea breeze. The snack bar is a convenient place to grab a quick bite, and clean restrooms are available. It’s a great, low-cost activity that provides entertainment and memorable experiences for the whole family.
🎣 Anglers and Fishermen
The pier is renowned for its king mackerel fishing, especially during the fall mullet run. Other common catches include bluefish and flounder. The NOAA scientific station on the pier also adds a unique element for those interested in marine life. It's a well-maintained spot with a good reputation among local anglers.
+1📸 Photographers and View Seekers
+1Beyond the expansive sea views, you can capture the dynamic action of anglers at work or the serene beauty of the waves. The pier provides a unique vantage point to document the coastal landscape of Wrightsville Beach. It's a peaceful place to spend time, offering both visual beauty and a refreshing atmosphere.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Fishing at Johnnie Mercers Pier
Many visitors appreciate the ease of access and the availability of amenities. The pier's tackle shop is well-stocked, and the snack bar provides refreshments and reasonable food options. Whether you're aiming for a trophy catch or just enjoying a relaxing day by the water, Johnnie Mercers Pier provides a classic pier fishing experience. Remember to be mindful of other anglers and their casting space.
Photography and Views
+2Beyond the natural beauty, the pier offers a unique perspective of Wrightsville Beach. You can capture shots of waves crashing, seabirds in flight, and the general activity of beach life. The refreshing ocean breezes add to the sensory experience, making it a pleasant place to linger and frame the perfect shot. Even on a bright, sunny day, the pier offers shaded areas, providing a comfortable spot to relax and observe the surroundings.
Community and Atmosphere
The pier is generally described as well-kept and offers an easygoing vibe. Even when busy, it doesn't typically feel overcrowded, allowing visitors to enjoy the space. The combination of the natural beauty, the recreational opportunities, and the friendly atmosphere makes Johnnie Mercers Pier a cherished spot for locals and tourists alike.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit