Day at the Docks

Yesterday was The Day at the Docks. It is a celebration of the Hatteras waterman from charter fishermen to commercial fishermen. We have the fortune of being asked every year to be one of the display boats on the main row at Odens for the day. On this row they have charter and commercial boats all intermingled. This year there were two charter boats, a long liner, shrimp trawler, drop net boat, mullet skiff, beach dory, a side picker, shad boat and the head boat the Miss Hatteras was also in the line up. The event takes place from Odens dock to Hatteras Harbor with all kinds of food, music, displays, contest for kids and adults. A fishing tournament at Hatteras Harbor for the kids,crab races, the concrete marlin, net hanging, survival suit races and to many mpre to name. The USCG is there with their with 47 ft. rollover boat as well as the water wagon which is a big hit with the kids. The day ends with a parade of boats entering the harbor and all gathering at Hatteras Harbor and village Marina where after all have arrived we have the blessing of the fleet. It is a time to remember those that have crossed the bar(passed on) this year as well as give thanks for the safe return daily of our fleet,for our lively hood, families, friends and the well being of our little community. It makes me proud to be a part of this fishing community and to do what I do for my living. I am thankful for all of you who fish with us every year and for those of you who may have only fished with us once. Some have become close friends over the years. The evening ends with a band and lawn dance right in the middle of town at our community center from 8 PM til midnight. You should make a plan to come and join us next year for the day and take in the sights. Looks like the swell from Igor will keep us at home for the next few days so there probably won't be much for a fishing report until Wed. or Thursday. Fishing is great and we have open days. Get on down here and do some fishing with us. It's good for your soul,I know it's good for mine.