Oriental, North Carolina

While Oriental's reputation as a sailing Mecca is amply deserved, there are a lot of other reasons to visit. On or off the water, if your idea of getting away means getting back to nature, you will find it is easy to get to from here.

sport-fishing

from those who favor reels over keels, Oriental is attracting increasing attention as a world-class sport-fishing destination. Our annual Tarpon Tournament attract anglers from up and down the East Coast, and we are also recognized for our light tackle and fly-fishing.

As part of the vast Pamlico Sound estuary the area's waterways are home to a host of saltwater and brackish water game fish. Whether you are a big game enthusiast looking to battle tarpon or giant red drum, alight tackle lover in quest of specks, a fly fisherman stalking reds or a family fishing for croaker and flounder, Oriental offers countless opportunities for a true angling adventure. In fact, Oriental has everything a sport-fisherman needs: boat, ramps, dockage and marinas along with guide services, pleasant accommodations and good food. Local Fishing Guide Services include: Downeast Guide Service, Spec Fever Guide Service, Sweet Water Charters

seasons:

April - June: Speckled Trout (Spotted Sea-trout), Puppy Drum (Juvenile Redfish), Flounder, Striped Bass, Largemouth Bass, Gray Trout (Weakfish)

June - September: Giant Red Drum, Tarpon, Spanish Mackerel, Speckled Trout, Puppy Drum, Flounder, Gray Trout, Bluefish, Croaker, Spot

September - December: Speckled Trout, Puppy Drum, Flounder, Striped Bass

commercial fishing

While sporting anglers visit Oriental for fun and a possible trophy, many fish the surrounding bays, rivers, and ocean for a living, selling their catches both locally and nationally. The local fleet comprises owner-operated fishing boats. These commercial fisherman harvest a wide array of
fish and seafood, including oysters, crabs, shrimp, flounder, scallops, and other species as available. Oriental still remains a live working waterfront that is located in the center of town that makes for a dynamic downtown.

hunting

Pamlico County, including the area around Oriental, is a hunter’s paradise. Home to an active Ducks Unlimited membership, the county also provides seasonal opportunities for dove, quail and wild turkey. For those hunting the challenge of bigger game, there are deer and black bear.

kayak/canoe trails

Whether it’s smooth paddling on a quiet tidal creek or the varying challenges of navigating river shores, Oriental’s tidewaters are a treat for kayakers and canoeists of every skill level. From Oriental to the Pamlico River, there are 150 miles of waterway filled with small creeks, guts and bays – and plenty of easy access points. For paddlers who desire to observe local wildlife, there are hundreds of birds, deer, otter, beaver and bobcats that may be spotted along the forest shores and in the marshes. Our local Kayak Shop Paddle Pamlico is conveniently located on the harbor in Oriental.

birding

Birdwatchers are always flocking to Oriental to observe the land, shore and waterfowl of all kinds that abound here. Along with the more familiar species such as bluebirds, cardinals, finches and flickers, avid watchers are treated to glimpses of the less common, including redheaded and pileated woodpeckers and owls. Migratory birds are regular visitors, some of which nest in the nearby waters. Other waterfowl, including pelicans, herons, egrets, Canada geese and various duck species are everyday sights along Oriental’s waterfronts.

cycling

Oriental and Pamlico County provide a great cycling environment for cyclists of all ages and experience levels. Oriental was proud to host the Cycle North Carolina Spring 2007 Ride. Our local bike club welcomes new riders and has regular rides weekly. The Orient Express Bike Club website provides additional information for cyclists.

horseback riding

Pamlico County is a horse-friendly area, attractive to breeders and riding enthusiasts alike. Tennessee Walkers, Thoroughbreds, Appaloosa and Paints are just a few of the breeds represented on horse farms in and around the Oriental community.

local parks

No community would be complete without a park for exercise, organized sports and family picnics, and Oriental offers two such parks for you to enjoy. The Oriental Recreation Park includes a full-size soccer field, a baseball/softball field, and a half-mile walking/running trail with exercise stations, children’s playground, and horseshoe pit and picnic shelter. Nearby, Lupton Park provides a tennis court, children’s playground and sheltered picnic tables.