Pier Host
Every day of the fishing season, the fish pier at Chatham Harbor is bustling with visitors and residents alike, eager to observe the excitement of a fishing boat returning to port loaded with its catch. You can learn more about which fish they are bringing in as well as the history and future of Cape Cod's small-boat fishing industry when you take part in the Pier Host Program.
Hosted by seasoned fishermen, who know these waters well, the Pier Host Program is a chance to get to meet these hard-working locals, hear about their experiences on the water and learn what steps the Fishermen's Alliance is taking to help depleted fish populations recover and the small-boat fishermen survive and thrive.
It's a great way to gain an understanding of the Cape's commercial fishing industry and the importance of protecting this traditional way of life.
Schedule Details
The Pier Hosts will be on the observation deck at the Chatham Fish Pier and ready to chat when boats are unloading fish. Fishing is an outdoor business, so naturally the Pier Host Program is weather dependent and seasonal.
While you may find Pier Hosts during the offseason down at the fish pier, they are regularly available between 10 a.m.- 1 p.m. Fridays through Mondays from June 29 through Columbus Day.
FREE
And open to all. No need to reserve—just show up.
Getting There
The Chatham Fish Pier is located off Shore Road at 54 Barcliff Avenue Extension. Park in the upper lot and walk down to the pier, following Pier Host signs that will point you to the observation deck. (Please note - the fish pier observation deck is not handicap accessible.)
2018 Pier Host Sponsors
The Chatham Fish Pier Host Program is funded by educational grants, business sponsors and individual donations. If you would like to make a donation to support our efforts in educating the local community and tourists alike about the Cape's fishing industry, please contact us at 508-945-2432.
A big thank you to our 2017 Pier Program business sponsor:
Pier Program Learning Book
Be sure to ask one of the Pier Hosts for our new educational learning book! Or if you can't make it down to the pier, you can download the learning book here. The learning book is made possible from our local business sponsor:
Interested in a private tour?
Can't make it between 10 and 1 on Friday through Monday? Tours of the Chatham Fish Pier with one of our Pier Hosts can be scheduled outside of normal times for groups no larger than 15 people. It's the perfect opportunity for small classes learning about the fishing industry in school or a group of friends eager to learn more about the community they live in. Tours scheduled for a specific time are $60 per hour. If you are interested in scheduling a time to tour the Chatham Fish Pier, contact us at 508-945-2432 x 102 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
