The section of the Pasqotank River referred to by Captain Chris below, lies just south of Goat Island, and well north of Elizabeth City. I've never tried dropping the hook here before, but it sounds as if this could be a real alternative to anchoring behind Goat Island. Anyone else had experience with this portion of the Pasquotank?

We have just spent two nights anchored in the Pasquotank River-Dismal Swamp Canal — the section beteeen Mile 44 & 45.
The western side has about 7 feet to within 150 feet of the waterline and is relatively snag and stump free. The eastern side can be deeper closer in but has far more snags and stumps.
We had no problem finding a swinging circle for a 45 foot boat with 70 feet of chain out and a minimum depth of 8 feet. We were still 100 yds from the main channel. We did rig a trip line and a deck level anchor light and would recommend both to all.
It is much breezier and much less buggy in this section than tucked in behind Goat Island (M44.3)
On the weekends it is a skiboat play ground. On weekdays there is the occasional Dismal Swamp South Mill Lock traffic.
This place compares favorably to Broad Creek, Pungo Creek and Upper Pungo River – and being fresh water, there are zero crab floats.
Chris Waln