ABOUT OREGON INLET:

Oregon Inlet—which is situated to the north of Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge and to the south of Bodie Island—was formed by an intense hurricane that sliced through the coastline from sea to sound in 1846.   

Since its formation 175 years ago, Oregon Inlet has played an integral role in the Outer Banks economy, serving as the primary passageway for both commercial and recreational fishermen whose vessels are headed out to sea.

Commercial and recreational fishing—as well as their supporting industries, which include boat building, seafood packing and processing, and tournament fishing—provide thousands of jobs and contribute hundreds of millions of dollars to Dare County each year.

Over the past several decades, however, shoaling within Oregon Inlet has become a significant issue, sealing off this essential waterway to many vessels that are unable to safely navigate the shallow water—and forcing many Outer Banks fishermen to move their operations to neighboring states whose waterways are more accessible. 

Dare County officials recognize the importance of Oregon Inlet and other critical waterways throughout the region remaining open and accessible, and over the years they have taken a proactive approach to searching for a long-term solution to the serious challenges associated with shoaling. 

Among Dare County’s many efforts to safeguard the livelihoods of Outer Banks fishermen and the local economy are the creation of the Oregon Inlet Task Force as well as the development of a new dredge, named the "Miss Katie."