The brackish waters of the Tar-Pamlico River system are unique and have provided some of the best fishing in eastern North Carolina for centuries.

On Feb. 14, the Pamlico-Tar River Foundation will recognize these exceptional waters in its eighth annual fishing clinic held in the Division of Marine Fisheries conference room at the Washington Square Mall.

Speaking will be renowned area fisherman Peter Boettger, author of the book “Fishing on the Western Pamlico,” and Mack Simpson, a well-known local fisherman from Bath.

Boettger, who has been the keynote speaker for the event in years past, will focus his discussion on the best geographical areas to fish in this part of the river basin.

“He will talk about the different creeks, the different areas and we do an overview of the river itself,” said Matt Butler, the environmental project manager for PTRF. “We talk about the Pamlico River, Blounts Creek, Pungo Creek, Bath Creek and the different areas to fish. We talk about the five major species you can catch: flounder, spotted sea trout, striped bass, red drum and white perch and different gear types best for targeting those fish.”

The clinic is aimed at beginner fishermen and will also cover basic terminology, different types of tackle and bait, fishing strategies and knot tying. Last year’s event drew more than 80 people and Butler expects a similar turnout next month.

“We focus on people who may have fished in the past, but who may not have fished in this area. Brackish waters in the western Pamlico is quite different from fresh water or salt water systems,” Butler said.

“We did a survey last year and the feedback has been very positive, Butler said. Some things we’re going to add this year is a fish-cleaning portion. We’re actually going to bring in fish and have a demonstration for the best and easiest way to clean and fillet a fish.”

The clinic begins at 8:30 a.m. and will last until 12:30 p.m. The cost is $5 for PTRF members and $35 for nonmembers. The $35 fee also includes a one-year membership to the PTRF. Those in attendance will also receive a free raffle ticket for a drawing at Cotton Patch Marina in Blounts Creek on a later date.