Top 9 Best Fishing Piers in Florida: Discover the Perfect Spot for Your Next Catch

Estimated reading time: 18 minutes

Let me share with you my favorite 9 saltwater fishing piers in Florida. Florida is a top destination for fishing enthusiasts like me, thanks to its long coastline and abundance of fishing piers. Among the best options are the Jacksonville Beach Pier and the impressive Navarre Beach Pier, which happens to be the longest on the Gulf Coast.

Now, before we embark on these exciting fishing trips, it’s important to remember that anglers over 16 years old need a valid Florida saltwater fishing license. So, make sure you have yours ready to go before we cast our lines.

Whether you’re an experienced angler or just starting out, these piers offer something special for everyone. Get your fishing gear ready, because we’re about to embark on some thrilling fishing adventures!

When it comes to Florida, there’s no shortage of amazing beaches, pleasant weather, and fascinating wildlife. And for a nature enthusiast like me, one of the best ways to soak it all in is by visiting the fishing piers scattered across the state. These piers not only offer breathtaking views but also provide excellent opportunities for anglers of all skill levels, including myself.

Florida’s fishing piers are truly remarkable, each with its own unique features, facilities, and a rich variety of fish species to be caught. Take, for instance, the Sunshine Skyway Fishing Pier in St. Petersburg. Its prime location near Tampa and its impressive length make it a top choice among anglers, granting access to a diverse range of fish. Another beloved spot is the Juno Beach Pier, nestled within Juno Beach Park, where I’ve enjoyed year-round fishing, convenient pier house services, and the option to rent equipment.

Throughout this article, I’ll share my personal insights on Florida’s finest fishing piers. I’ll consider key factors such as height, length, location, fish populations, fees, and other intriguing tidbits, all aimed at helping you plan your next exciting fishing excursion. So join me as we embark on an exploration of the Sunshine State’s most captivating fishing destinations!

Don’t miss the “Fishing Deerfield Beach Pier” video below, showcasing an angler’s thrilling catches from this popular Florida pier!

Best Atlantic Coast Fishing Piers

1. Jacksonville Beach Pier

When it comes to fishing, one of my favorite spots is the Jacksonville Beach Pier in Florida. Stretching an impressive 1,320 feet, this pier provides plenty of room for me to cast my line and enjoy some quality fishing time.

What I love most is the wide range of fish species I can expect to catch throughout the year, including redfish, black drum, speckled trout, and even the occasional tarpon. To make things even better, the pier has a convenient bait and tackle shop, as well as a concession stand, ensuring that I have everything I need for an enjoyable fishing trip.

• Open: 6:00 a.m to 11:00 p.m. 365 days a year.
• Cost: $4 per resident per day, $5 per non-resident per day, and $300 annual pass.. $15 rod rental per day.
• License: No, a license is NOT required to fish from the pier. The entry fee covers the license for the entire pier.
• Dimensions: 1,320-foot long pier, and 24-foot tall.
• Fish species: Popular fishing spot where anglers often catch a variety of fish species, such as flounder, redfish, whiting, black drum, sheepshead, bonnethead sharks, and sea trout..
• Amenities: Restrooms are available
• Restrictions: No alcoholic beverages, illegal substances, dogs (ADA service animals allowed). Maximimum 3 rods per angler.

2. Cocoa Beach Pier

Cocoa Beach Pier, with its impressive length of over 800 feet, has quickly become a top destination for me. The vibrant atmosphere and easy accessibility make it a favorite spot to spend my time.

When I hit the water at this historic pier in Cocoa Beach, I’m always excited about the diverse range of fish species I can catch, including whiting, redfish, and snook. But what sets this pier apart is its fantastic amenities. I was pleasantly surprised to find a handful of restaurants and bars right on the pier, creating a lively and social environment where I can unwind and share stories after a successful day of fishing.

• Open: 11:00 a.m to 9:00 p.m, Sun-Thu, 11:00 a.m to 9:00 p.m, Fri-Sat..
• Cost: $2 pier entry fee plus parking garage or street parking.
• License: Yes, a license is required to fish from the pier.
• Dimensions: 800-foot long pier, and 10-foot tall.
• Fish species: Some common fish species that can be caught from the pier include pompano, whiting, flounder, bluefish, Spanish mackerel, and sheepshead.
• Amenities: The pier is also home to a bait and tackle shop that provides visitors with a range of fishing gear and equipment, including rental poles and bait.
• Restrictions: Certain types of fishing gear, such as cast nets and spears, are not allowed on the pier. Alcoholic beverages and glass containers are not allowed.

3. Juno Beach Pier

Juno Beach Pier in Juno Beach, Florida is one of my favorite spots to visit. It’s a 990-foot long pier that offers a wide range of fishing opportunities. Whether I’m fishing toward the shallows or venturing out to deeper waters pier section, there’s always a chance to catch exciting species like snook, bonefish, permit, and redfish.

Plus, I love that the pier has a convenient bait and tackle shop, so I don’t have to worry about bringing my own gear. What makes Juno Beach Pier even more special is its dedication to turtle conservation, which is truly impressive.

• Open: From sunrise to sunset daily (Mar-Oct) and
  6:00 a.m to 10:00 p.m, Sun-Thu, 6 a.m. to midnight, Fri-Sat. (Nov-Apr)..
• Cost: $5 per angler, youth (12 and under) $3.
• License: Yes, a license is required to fish from the pier.
• Dimensions: 990-foot long pier, and 30-foot tall.
• Fish species: Some common catches at the pier include snook, pompano, bluefish, Spanish mackerel, and sheepshead. Other species that can be caught at the pier include jack crevalle, tarpon, redfish, and flounder.
• Amenities: Restrooms and showers are available. Pier House features a snack bar where visitors can purchase food and drinks, as well as a gift store where they can buy souvenirs and fishing gear..
• Restrictions: Certain types of fishing gear, such as cast nets and spears, are not allowed on the pier. Alcoholic beverages and glass containers are not allowed.

4. Sebastian Inlet State Park Pier

One of my absolute favorite spots is the Sebastian Inlet State Park Pier, where the thrill of fishing meets the beauty of nature. This pier offers a truly special experience, as it allows me to fish in both the Atlantic and the Indian River.

The variety of fish species I can catch here, like snook, redfish, and black drum, always keeps me excited and eager to hit the water. And let’s not forget about the incredible scenery that surrounds me, creating a picture-perfect backdrop for my fishing trips. With convenient amenities like a bait and tackle shop and fish cleaning stations, everything I need is right at my fingertips. Sebastian Inlet State Park Pier truly captures the essence of an unforgettable fishing adventure.

• Open: 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
• Cost: the fees are $8 per vehicle with 2-8 people or $4 for a single-occupant vehicle.
• License: A fishing license may be required. Check the FWC website.
• Dimensions: 500-foot long pier, and has a 75 foot t-head.
• Fish species: Species that are frequently caught at the pier include pompano, flounder, black drum, and spotted sea trout.
• Amenities: Boat launch is available.
• Restrictions: Spear fishing is prohibited.

5. International Fishing Pier

Whenever I’m in Deerfield Beach, Florida, a fishing trip to the International Fishing Pier is a must for me. This pier, stretching 976 feet into the ocean, offers breathtaking views and exciting opportunities to reel in mackerel and kingfish.

Although it can get a bit crowded at times, the lively atmosphere and the chance to catch fish in deeper waters make it all worthwhile.

• Open: from 6 am to 11 pm daily.
• Cost: The fees are $4 and rod rental at $18 plus $25 deposit.
  Monthly passes are $50 residents, $75 non-residents, $50 military and first responders
  Annual passes are $500 residents, $550 non-residents, $500 military and first responders
• License: Yes, a fishing license is required here.
• Dimensions: 976-foot long pier, and 20-foot tall.
• Fish species: Some common catches include snook, tarpon, jack crevalle, snapper, and pompano. The pier also attracts a variety of game fish, such as barracuda and kingfish, as well as various species of shark. Additionally, during the winter months, anglers may have the opportunity to catch sailfish and wahoo.
• Amenities: Gift and tackle shop on site.
• Restrictions: The pavilion and t-head are closed until further notice.

Best Gulf Coast Fishing Piers

6. Skyway Fishing Pier

When it comes to fishing piers on the Gulf Coast, my go-to spot is the Skyway Fishing Pier in St. Petersburg, Florida. It’s a prime location right by the renowned Skyway Bridge, and it’s considered the top fishing pier in the entire state. What makes it even more remarkable is that it’s actually the world’s longest fishing pier, created by repurposing the old bridge.

One of the standout features of the Skyway Fishing Pier is its night-time illumination. This means that even after sunset, anglers have no trouble setting up their gear, baiting their hooks, and keeping a close eye on their catches. The lights also act as a lure, attracting a wide variety of fish species to the area once darkness falls. It’s a true fishing paradise that offers endless excitement and memorable moments.

• Open: 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
• Cost: The fees are $4 per vehicle, along with $4 per adult, $2 per child (ages 6 to 12), while children 5 and younger enjoy free entry.
• License: A fishing license may be required. Check the FWC website.
• Dimensions: 1,545-foot long pier, and 30-foot tall.
• Fish species: Anglers can reel in a variety of fish, such as snook, tarpon, grouper, black sea bass, Spanish mackerel, king mackerel, cobia, sheepshead, red snapper, pompano, and other species.
• Amenities: Restrooms are available, concession and restaurant on site.
• Restrictions: Alcoholic beverages are prohibited, pets are not allowed.

7. Pier 60

One of my favorite fishing spots on the Gulf Coast is Pier 60 in Clearwater Beach. It’s more than just a pier for fishing; it’s a whole recreational park! When I head out to Pier 60, I’m excited to find not only a bait house but also telescopes and six covered pavilions.

The bait house at Pier 60 is stocked with everything I need for a successful fishing trip. What sets this pier apart is the abundance of lights that make it perfect for night fishing, adding an extra thrill to my fishing experience.

• Open: From 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. 365 days a year.
• Cost: Daily Fee at $10 per angler, $8 per senior, $7 for youths (15 and under)
  Weekly pass at $40 per angler, $35 per senior, $30 for youths (15 and under)
  Annual pass at $300 per angler, $250 per senior
  Rod rental $10 per rod
• License: No fishing license required fishing from the pier.
• Dimensions: 1,800-foot long pier.
• Fish species: At this popular fishing spot, you’ll find an abundance of species such as Spanish mackerel, spotted and silver trout, snook, redfish, tarpon, sheepshead, snappers, flounder, and jacks, with the catch varying according to the season.
• Amenities: Restrooms are available, pavilions and picnic tables.

8. Navarre Beach Fishing Pier

One of my favorite fishing spots along the Gulf Coast is the Navarre Beach Fishing Pier. It’s not just any ordinary pier—it’s actually the longest fishing pier in the Gulf of Mexico! Standing at an impressive 30 feet high, this pier offers an exhilarating fishing experience.

Whether you’re using a gaff to land those big catches or enjoying the thrill of night fishing with the help of 90+ lights, it’s an adventure you won’t want to miss. Plus, there’s an added bonus—a fantastic pier restaurant that serves up delicious Gulf seafood, burgers, and more.

• Open: From 5:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. (May-Oct) and 6:00 a.m to 9:00 p.m. (Nov-Apr)..
• Cost: Weekly passes at $7 per angler, with discounts for seniors 65+/military $6, and youths (5-15) $4. Annual passes at $150 per angler, seniors 65+/military $100, and youths (5-15) at $75.
• License: No fishing license required fishing from the pier.
• Dimensions: 1,545-foot long pier, and 30-foot tall.
• Fish species: Regular catches in this area feature the likes of Mahi Mahi, Amberjack, Red Snapper, King Mackerel, Wahoo, Cobia, and even more exciting species.
• Amenities: Restrooms are available, baitshop, and restaurant on site.
• Restrictions: No shark fishing gear and one rod per angler

9. Venice Fishing Pier

When it comes to fishing, one place that always catches my attention is the Venice Fishing Pier in Venice, Florida. It has this cool, classic t-head design that adds a unique touch to the whole experience.

However, if I’m being honest, it could use a bit more lighting, especially for those who enjoy fishing at night. Nonetheless, when I head out there, I can’t help but feel the excitement of casting my line and hoping for a good catch.

• Open: 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, making it suitable for night fishing too.
• Cost: No fees
• License: No fishing license required fishing from the pier.
• Dimensions: 700-foot long pier, 22-foot wide and 20-foot tall with a spectacular view of the Gulf.
• Fish species: Here, you can reel in grouper, snapper, and redfish all year long, while cobia, kingfish, amberjack, Spanish mackerel, and tarpon make seasonal appearances for added excitement.
• Restrictions: No shark fishing gear and one rod per angler, dogs and tobacco are prohibited. See other restrictions.

Common Fish Species in Florida Piers

When I go fishing at the piers in Florida, it’s always exciting to see the variety of fish species that I can catch. Some of the most common species that I usually come across include:

• Jack
• Mackerel
• Trout
• Redfish
• Spanish mackerel
• Tarpon
• Snook
• Shark
• Grouper
• Snapper
• Sheepshead
• King mackerel

Of course, the species you’ll encounter will vary depending on which pier you’re fishing at. For instance, at the Deerfield Beach International Fishing Pier, I have caught Barracuda, Porgy, Bream, Blue Runner, Crevalle Jack, Cobia, Moonfish, and even the powerful Tarpon, among others.

If you’re looking to catch Snapper, Sheepshead, Redfish, Snook, Flounder, Pompano, or Spanish mackerel, I highly recommend heading over to Pier 60 in Clearwater. It’s around 660 feet long and stretches over the water, providing a great spot to cast your line.

When I fish at the Skyway Bridge Fishing Pier State Park, I get to enjoy going after Tarpon, Snook, Redfish, Speckled Trout, Cobia, Snapper, and Grouper. Although it doesn’t have that classic boardwalk vibe, I really appreciate its never-closing policy, allowing me to fish at any time I please.

Bait, Gear, and Equipment

Rod and Reel

When I go pier fishing in Florida, I prefer to use a medium to heavy spinning or conventional rod and reel setup. A 7 to 9-foot rod with a strong backbone and moderate action works well for my needs. For the reel, I like to use one that can hold at least 200 yards of 20-30 lb braided or monofilament line. This combination allows me to target various species from snapper, sheepshead, redfish, snook, to larger fish like kingfish and barracuda.

Live Bait

Live bait is essential for pier fishing in Florida. Pinfish, shrimp, and other small baitfish are my go-to choices. Pinfish can be easily caught with a cast net in the shallows around seagrass beds. Shrimp is a versatile bait and can be found in bait shops near piers. Both pinfish and shrimp are effective for catching a wide variety of species, especially when combined with an appropriate rig and technique.

Bait Shop

Before heading to the pier, I like to make a quick stop at a local bait shop. Not only can I purchase live bait like shrimp and pinfish, but I can also find a helpful staff who can provide useful tips about which fish are currently biting, what particular baits are working well, and what the current fishing regulations are. Plus, I’m often able to find some unique local lures or tackle that isn’t available at larger retailers.

Pier Amenities

When I go pier fishing in Florida, I can’t help but notice the unique features of each pier. Some piers offer breathtaking views along with great fishing opportunities. It’s always thrilling to see what kinds of fish I can catch at each pier, adding an extra element of excitement to my trips.

What I appreciate most is that many piers have reasonable fees, making it accessible for everyone to enjoy a day of fishing without breaking the bank. Additionally, the convenience of having a concession stand on the pier that rents out gear and sells bait saves me time and effort. I can easily grab what I need for a fun day of fishing without worrying about individual licenses.

Another important aspect of my pier fishing routine is visiting the local tackle shop. They have a variety of terminal tackle options like hooks, sinkers, and leaders. The knowledgeable staff at these shops are always ready to offer advice on the best gear for the specific pier I plan to visit and the species I want to target. It’s a great way to ensure I have the right equipment for a successful fishing trip.

Fishing Regulations and Licenses

In Florida, a fishing license is required for both shore and boat fishing. One thing I appreciate about the state is that there are different licenses for saltwater and freshwater fishing, which helps promote sustainability in the fishing industry. To know the exact requirements, I frequently check the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s website.

These are some key takeaways from my experiences with Florida’s fishing regulations and licenses:

• Fishing licenses are required for both shore and boat fishing
• Separate licenses are needed for saltwater and freshwater fishing
• Most ocean piers provide access to commercial fishing licenses through concession stands
• Each pier has unique features, such as location, height, length, and the type of fish caught
• Fees are often reasonable, making it an affordable experience

By keeping these points in mind and staying up-to-date with the latest rules, I can continue enjoying Florida’s fantastic fishing opportunities in a responsible and sustainable manner.

Additional Fishing Locations and Tips

Jetties

Jetties are a fantastic fishing spot, as they provide a habitat for various fish species. In Florida, one of my favorite jetties is located in Fort Pierce Inlet State Park. Here, you can catch fish like redfish, snook, and sheepshead. It’s essential to bring appropriate gear, such as strong lines and sturdy hooks, since rocks can easily snag your tackle.

Boat Fishing

Another great fishing option in Florida is boat fishing. Venturing out in a boat can give you access to deeper areas where fish like snapper, grouper, and kingfish may be found. I recommend hiring a local fishing guide who knows the best spots and provides all necessary equipment. One popular area to explore with a boat is the offshore area near the Florida Keys.

Old Bridge

The Old Seven Mile Bridge is an iconic and historic fishing spot in Florida. This bridge is a popular area for anglers chasing fish like tarpon, mangrove snapper, and barracuda. I personally love the picturesque view from this bridge as it’s both a beautiful and productive fishing location. Fees for fishing on the Old Seven Mile Bridge are not required, but a fishing license is necessary.

Causeway Blvd

One great fishing spot in Florida is the 528 Causeway in Merritt Island. Not only can you catch fish like seatrout, redfish, and snook, but this location offers multiple areas to fish, such as jetties, bridges, and beaches. Don’t forget to check the regulations and licensing requirements when planning your trip to the 528 Causeway.

Downtown

Fishing in the heart of a city like Tampa can be a unique experience. The downtown area features various piers, such as Ballast Point Park, where I’ve enjoyed catching snook, redfish, and even tarpon. Remember to pay attention to fishing hours, as some piers in downtown areas are open only during specific times of the day.

Enjoy these diverse fishing spots and good luck on your Florida adventure!

Conclusion

When it comes to fishing trips, Virginia Beach has got it all. The variety of piers to choose from means there’s excitement waiting for both experienced anglers and beginners like me.

On my fishing trips, I always make sure to check out the different piers, keeping in mind that each one may have its own set of rules and costs. It’s important to stay informed before heading out. So, with that in mind, I wish you tight lines and happy fishing!