There are very few places better for fishing in the world than Florida. The Sunshine State welcomes millions of avid fishers each year, all in search of huge hookups and delicious tasting seafood.
Even if you don’t have access to a boat, there’s no need to be deterred. There are plenty of beautiful fishing piers in Florida, with almost every town having one, and many cities having a selection to choose from.
While this abundance of choice is fantastic for fishing, it can be tough for visitors to know where to start when looking through all the fishing spots littered along the coastline.
To make things a little easier for you, we’ve put together a detailed guide of 8 of the best fishing piers across the state. So, if you’re without a boat, continue reading for some fantastic options.
1. Skyway Bridge Fishing Pier
4905 34th Street South #5000, St. Petersburg, FL 33711
View this post on Instagram
This converted road bridge has a pier at either side and is open 24/7. It’s a great place for getting a selection of fish, with Snook, Redfish, Tarpon, Speckled Trout, Snapper, and many more to choose from.
Furthermore, the rubble from the old bridge has been turned into an artificial reef which helps to attract even more fish.
Not only is this location great for fishing, it also offers incredible views of the Bay and the famous Sunshine Skyway Bridge. While this fishing spot may not have the classic boardwalk feel, it does come with a number of handy perks.
If you forget to bring anything, there’s a tackle shop at either end of the pier, and you’re also able to drive right up to your chosen fishing spot with all your gear, food, and other necessities.
-
- Cost: $4 per vehicle, $4 per adult, $2 per child, under-5s free
- No Licence Required
2. Juno Beach Pier
14775 U.S. Hwy 1, Juno Beach, FL 33408
View this post on Instagram
On Florida’s Atlantic coast you’ll find that the water gets deeper at a much quicker rate, which is great news for any anglers near the Juno Beach Pier. This fishing location is roughly 1,000 feet long and full of fantastic fish.
Start off in the shallows with the likes of Snook, Bonefish, and Redfish, before moving to the deep end for Snapper, Kingfish, and even Sailfish.
What sets this fishing pier apart from the vast majority of others across Florida is its commitment to sustainability. The site is managed by the Loggerhead Marine Life Centre, and works hard to limit its impact on the surrounding area.
Some of its best work includes clearing up debris in the water around the pier and educating anglers on how to properly deal with estranged turtles.
-
- Opening Hours: March-October: 30 minutes before sunrise-sunset, November-February: Sunday-Thursday 6am-10pm and Friday-Saturday 6am-midnight
- Cost: $4 per angler, $2 per child (12 and under), $1 per non-angler
- No Licence Required
3. Venice Fishing Pier
1600 Harbor Dr. S, Venice, FL 34285
View this post on Instagram
If you’re looking for a classic wooden walkway to fish on, you should visit the Venice Fishing Pier. It’s open 24/7 so perfect for both afternoon and evening angling sessions.
In terms of length, the pier stretches for 700 feet, providing plenty of depth to reel in a range of species. Whether you’re looking for Sheepshead or Sharks, you’ve got every chance of being in luck.
To make things easier, the pier has a bait shop that stocks all the necessities for a day of fishing. In addition to fishing equipment, the shop also sells snacks, drinks, and “Florida snow shovels”, so there’s plenty to keep the whole family busy.
-
- Cost: Free
- No Licence Required
4. Jacksonville Beach Pier
503 North 1st Street, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250
View this post on Instagram
Stretching almost a quarter of a mile into the Atlantic, the Jacksonville Beach Pier provides a wide, wooden fishing platform that’s perfect for fishing in the highly active, deep waters below.
At roughly 22 feet deep at the end of the pier, anglers have great access to an impressive variety of fish, including Redfish, Trout, Kingfish, Striped Bass, Kings, Barracuda, and much more!
The pier was initially built in 1925, but has since been rebuilt and repaired a number of times due to its love for battling oncoming Hurricanes. Considering the huge fishing potential of this location, and a price of just $3 per angler, it’s an absolute steal.
This price also includes your fishing permit, so make sure you give the Jacksonville Beach Pier a try if you’re nearby.
-
- Opening Hours: April-November: 6am-10pm, December-March: 6am-7pm
- Cost: $3 per angler, $1 per non-angler, under 6s free
- No Licence Required
5. Cocoa Beach Pier
401 Meade Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
View this post on Instagram
Located in the stunning Cocoa Beach, this world-famous pier has been the heart and soul of the Cocoa Beach waterfront since its construction in 1962. It stretches 800 feet into the Atlantic, making it a prime spot for anglers to cast and drop their lines into the water below.
Some of the most common catches include Whiting, Redfish, Tarpon, Snapper, Sea Trout, and Black Drum.
The best thing about making a trip to this fantastic pier is the fact that there’s so much to do. Once you’ve finished your day’s fishing, there are a number of excellent bars and restaurants to choose from, ensuring the good times will continue well into the evening.
-
- Opening Hours: 6am-10pm
- Cost: $7 per adult, $5 per senior (over 55) and children under 12, $2 per non-angler
- No Licence Required
6. Navarre Beach Fishing Pier
8579 Gulf Blvd, Navarre, FL 32566
View this post on Instagram
At 1,545 feet long, the Navarre Beach Fishing Pier claims to be the longest pier in Florida. One thing’s for sure, it’s certainly long enough to catch some monsters.
You can stay near the beach and catch Redfish, Sheepshead, and Flounder, or take a walk to the end of the pier and find the likes of Cobia, King Mackerel, and much more. Some anglers have even hooked a Great White Shark from this pier!
If you’re worried about bumping elbows while fishing on this popular pier, there’s really no need to stress. The pier has a massive 3,800 square-foot fishing space at the far end, as well as a fish cleaning station.
What’s more, the Navarre Beach Fishing Pier has everything you need for a full day out. There’s a handy tackle shop that sells snacks, drinks, and bait, while restrooms and an excellent restaurant provide further comfort throughout the day.
-
- Opening Hours: May-October: 5am-11pm, November-April: 6am-7pm
- Cost: $7 per angler (reduced to $6 for seniors and active military), $1 per non-angler, disabled veterans and under 5s free
- No Licence Required
7. Naples Pier
25 12th Ave S, Naples, FL 34102
View this post on Instagram
After a period of closure following damage from Hurricane Ima in 2017, Naples Pier is back open and better than ever. At roughly 1,000 feet long, anglers have the chance to catch an impressive array of fish, ranging from Snook and Snapper to Grouper and Redfish.
You can also see dolphins swimming in the water below and experience the incredible sight of the sun setting into the Gulf.
Due to its recent reopening, all the facilities on Naples Pier are brand new. There are restrooms, cleaning stations, and concessions where you can pick up a range of snacks, refreshments, and gear. What’s more, the pier is open 24/7 and completely free to use, allowing you to come and go whenever you want.
-
- Cost: Free
- No Licence Required
8. Pensacola Beach Gulf Pier
41 Fort Pickens Rd #2005, Pensacola Beach, FL 32561
View this post on Instagram
Measured at 1,470 feet long, the Pensacola Beach Gulf Pier gives anglers access to some excellent deep-sea fishing. Depending on the season you visit, you can reel in the likes of Cobia, Pompano, Whiting, Spanish Mackerel, Flounder, and Tarpon.
Furthermore, if you’re lucky enough, you may even get the chance to battle a raging Sailfish.
Besides the immense fishing opportunities, the pier also has restaurants, gift shops, and bait and tackle, so you’ll have everything you need for a successful and fun-filled trip while at the Pensacola Beach Gulf Pier.
-
- Opening Hours: 6am-9pm
- Cost: $7.50 per angler (reduced to $6.50 for seniors and active military), $4.50 per youth angler, $1.25 for sightseeing
- No Licence Required
Add comment