15 Best Fishing Piers in Florida: Everything You Need to Know

Florida is a paradise for anglers, with thousands of miles of coastline and hundreds of fishing piers to choose from. Whether you’re looking for saltwater or freshwater fishing, you can find a pier that suits your needs and preferences. Here are the best fishing piers in Florida.

What are the Best Fishing Piers in Florida?

To help you narrow down your search for the best fishing piers in Florida, here are some of the top picks:

Skyway Bridge Fishing Pier State Park

This is one of the most productive and convenient fishing piers in Florida. It spans the mouth of Tampa Bay on a former bridge, with a pier on each side. It offers unbeatable views of the bay and the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. It is open 24/7 and has a low entry fee.

You can drive right up to your fishing spot with all your gear and park your car on the pier. There is a bait shop at the end of each pier that sells everything you need. You can catch a variety of fish here, from tarpon to grouper.

Juno Beach Pier

This is one of the most scenic and serene fishing piers in Florida. It extends 990 feet into the Atlantic Ocean from Juno Beach Park. It has clear blue water with great visibility and a sandy bottom. It is open from sunrise to sunset and has a moderate entry fee.

There is a bait shop on the pier that sells or rents fishing gear and snacks. You can catch Spanish mackerel, pompano, snapper, bluefish, and more here.

Naples Pier

This is one of the most historic and iconic fishing piers in Florida. It dates back to 1888 and is located in downtown Naples on the Gulf of Mexico. It has stunning views of the sunset and the beach. It is open 24/7 and has no entry fee.

The city provides a blanket fishing license for all anglers on the pier. There are restrooms, showers, benches, and trash cans on the pier. There is also a concession stand that sells food and drinks. You can catch redfish, sea trout, snook, jack crevalle, and more here.

Navarre Beach Fishing Pier

This is one of the longest and newest fishing piers in Florida. It measures 1,545 feet long and was built in 2010 after Hurricane Ivan destroyed the previous pier. It is located on Navarre Beach on Santa Rosa Island in northwest Florida. It has amazing views of the Gulf of Mexico and the Santa Rosa Sound. It is open from dawn to dusk and has a reasonable entry fee.

There is a bait shop on the pier that sells or rents fishing gear and snacks. There is also a restaurant and bar on the pier that serves food and drinks. You can catch king mackerel, cobia, red snapper, mahi-mahi, and more here.

Venice Fishing Pier

This is one of the most family-friendly and relaxing fishing piers in Florida. It is located at Brohard Park in Venice on the Gulf of Mexico. It has a wide and spacious wooden deck that is easy to walk on. It is open 24/7 and has no entry fee.

There is a bait shop on the pier that sells or rents fishing gear and snacks. There are also restrooms, picnic tables, and a playground nearby. You can catch sharks, barracuda, cobia, snook, and more here.

Anglins Fishing Pier

This is one of the most exciting and adventurous fishing piers in Florida. It is located in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea on the Atlantic coast. It is close to the Gulf Stream, which brings a variety of pelagic fish to the area. It is open 24/7 and has a high entry fee.

There is a bait shop on the pier that sells or rents fishing gear and snacks. There are also restrooms and a restaurant on the pier that serves food and drinks. You can catch king mackerel, tarpon, sailfish, wahoo, and more here.

Sebastian Inlet State Park Pier

This is one of the most diverse and rewarding fishing piers in Florida. It is located at Sebastian Inlet State Park in Melbourne Beach on the Atlantic coast. It is at the mouth of a waterway that intermingles with the Indian River Lagoon, one of Florida’s most famous fishing areas.

It has two piers, one on each side of the inlet. It is open 24/7 and has a low entry fee. There are bait shops, restrooms, fish cleaning stations, picnic tables, and benches on both piers. You can catch snook, redfish, trout, flounder, pompano, bluefish, and more here.

Cocoa Beach Pier

One of the Best Fishing Piers in Florida is Cocoa Beach Pier, a historic landmark on the Space Coast. You can enjoy the spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean, catch some waves, or reel in some fish. The pier also has five restaurants and bars, live music, gift shops, and beach rentals.

Cocoa Beach Pier is 800 feet long and has fresh water showers, beach volleyball courts, and lifeguards year-round. You can also watch the rocket launches from the nearby Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. If you’re looking for a fun and lively place to hang out, Cocoa Beach Pier is the place to be.

Pier 60s

If you’re looking for a place to enjoy the sunset, Pier 60s is one of the Best Fishing Piers in Florida. Every evening, Pier 60s hosts a festival with vendors, performers and musicians who entertain the crowds. You can also watch movies on a jumbo screen, see fireworks on special occasions, or join a guided Jet-ski tour.

Pier 60s is more than just a fishing pier. It’s a recreational park with playgrounds, telescopes, inflatable slides, and public restrooms. You can rent fishing equipment, buy souvenirs, or dine at one of the nearby restaurants. Pier 60s is a fun and lively destination for the whole family.

Dania Beach Fishing Pier

Dania Beach Fishing Pier is another one of the Best Fishing Piers in Florida. It’s a popular spot for anglers who want to catch a variety of fish, from red drum and bonito to snook and snapper. You can also see sharks, stingrays, and dolphins from the pier.

The pier is 928 feet long and has a bait shop, restrooms, and parking. You can rent fishing rods, buy snacks, or get fishing tips from the friendly staff. The pier is open from 6 a.m. to midnight every day. Dania Beach Fishing Pier is a great place to enjoy the ocean breeze and the fishing action.

Daytona Beach Pier

If you want to experience the history and culture of Daytona Beach, you should visit Daytona Beach Pier, one of the Best Fishing Piers in Florida. The pier has been the centre of beach life since the early 1900s and has hosted dances, races, concerts, and events. You can still see some of the old photos and memorabilia at the pier.

The pier is 1,000 feet long and has a restaurant, a gift shop, and an arcade. You can fish from the pier or just enjoy the views of the ocean and the beach. The pier is also close to many attractions, such as Ocean Walk Shoppes, Daytona

Edward B. Knight Pier

Edward B. Knight Pier, also known as Key West Pier, is one of the Best Fishing Piers in Florida. It’s named after a prominent figure who helped develop Key West in the early 1900s. The pier offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding islands.

The pier is 1,100 feet long and has a boardwalk, a pavilion, and a bait shop. You can fish for mackerel, snapper, tarpon, and other species from the pier or enjoy other activities like parasailing and dolphin watching. The pier is also close to many attractions, such as West Martello Tower, Louie’s Backyard, and Southernmost Point. Edward B. Knight Pier is a beautiful and relaxing place to visit.

Jacksonville Beach Pier

Jacksonville Beach Pier is one of the Best Fishing Piers in Florida for anglers who want to access deep-water species of fish. The pier is nearly a quarter of a mile long and offers close-up views of the Atlantic Ocean. You can catch fish like king mackerel, tarpon, flounder, and more from the pier.

The pier is open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. every day and has a bait shop, restrooms, and parking. You can rent fishing rods, buy snacks, or get fishing tips from the staff. You don’t need a license to fish on the pier, as it is covered by the entry fee. Jacksonville Beach Pier is a great place to enjoy fishing and the beach.

Deerfield Beach Fishing Pier

Deerfield Beach Fishing Pier is a 976-foot pier that attracts thousands of visitors and fishermen every year. The pier, among the Best Fishing Piers in Florida, is located in the heart of Deerfield Beach, a charming seaside town with a laid-back vibe. You can fish for pompano, bluefish, snook, and more from the pier or just enjoy the views of the beach.

The pier is open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily and has a concession that rents fishing rods, sells bait, snacks, and souvenirs. You can also find restrooms, showers, and parking near the pier. The pier is close to many restaurants, shops, and attractions, such as Island Water Sports, Deerfield Island Park, and Sullivan Park. Deerfield Beach Fishing Pier is a fun and relaxing place to visit.

Pensacola Beach Gulf Pier

Pensacola Beach Gulf Pier is one of the Best Fishing Piers in Florida. It is a 1,471-foot pier that offers spectacular views and great fishing. The pier is located on Santa Rosa Island, a barrier island with pristine beaches and natural beauty. You can fish for cobia, king mackerel, redfish, and more from the pier or just enjoy the views of the Gulf of Mexico.

The pier is open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily and has a bait and tackle shop that rents fishing rods, sells bait, snacks, and souvenirs. You can also find restrooms, showers, and parking near the pier. The pier is close to many restaurants, shops, and attractions, such as Casino Beach Bar and Grill, Bear Fruit Bowls and Coffee, and Pensacola Beach Dog Park. Pensacola Beach Gulf Pier is a fun and scenic place to visit.

Fort De Soto Piers

Fort De Soto Piers are two long fishing piers that are part of Fort De Soto Park, a 1,136-acre park that consists of five interconnected islands. The park is a natural paradise with beaches, mangroves, wetlands, palm hammocks, and hardwoods. You can fish for cobia, kingfish, Spanish mackerel, and more from the piers or just enjoy the views of the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay.

The Gulf Pier is 1,000 feet long and closer to the open waters of the Gulf. The Bay Pier is 500 feet long and closer to the currents of Tampa Bay. Both piers have bait and tackle shops that rent fishing rods, and sell bait, snacks, and souvenirs. You can also find restrooms, showers, and parking near the piers. The piers are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. Fort De Soto Piers are fun and scenic places to visit.

What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Fishing Piers in Florida?

The factors that you should take into account when choosing the best fishing piers in Florida are:

Location

The location of the pier is important for several reasons. First, you want to find a pier that is convenient and accessible for you. Some piers are open 24/7, while others have limited hours or require a fee to enter. Some piers are part of state parks or other attractions, while others are standalone structures. You also want to find a pier that matches your fishing style and target species.

Some piers are close to the Gulf Stream or other currents, which attract pelagic fish like tarpon, cobia, king mackerel, and even sailfish. Other piers are near artificial reefs or natural structures, which provide habitat for bottom fish like snapper, grouper, flounder, and sheepshead. Still, other piers are in estuaries or lakes, where you can catch redfish, trout, snook, bass, and more.

Facilities

Another factor to consider when looking for the best fishing piers in Florida is the facilities and amenities available on or near the pier. Some piers have bait shops that sell or rent fishing gear, snacks, drinks, ice, and other essentials. Some piers have restrooms, fish cleaning stations, picnic tables, benches, and trash cans. Some piers have restaurants, bars, shops, or other attractions nearby. You want to find a pier that has everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable fishing experience.

Popularity

The popularity of the pier can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, a popular pier means that the fishing is good and consistent. You can also learn from other anglers who frequent the pier and share their tips and tricks. On the other hand, a popular pier can also mean that it is crowded and competitive. You may have to deal with limited space, tangled lines, rude behaviour, or overfished waters. You want to find a pier that has a balance between popularity and tranquillity.

The Best Fishing Piers in Florida In A Nutshell

Florida has some of the best fishing piers in the country, if not the world. You can find a pier that suits your needs and preferences, whether you’re looking for convenience, scenery, facilities, or fish variety. The best way to find the best fishing piers in Florida is to do some research, ask around, and try them out for yourself. You never know what you might catch!

If you’re considering a future trip to Wisconsin, you should explore some of its premier fishing locations.

FAQs About the Best Fishing Piers in Florida

What are the best free fishing piers in Florida?

There are many fishing piers in Florida that are free to access or do not require a fishing license. Some examples are:

• Venice Fishing Pier: This 700-foot pier is open 24/7 and offers great fishing for Snook, Pompano, Kingfish, and more. There is a bait shop that rents rods and sells snacks and souvenirs. You can also enjoy the views of the beach and the Gulf of Mexico.
• Juno Beach Pier: This 990-foot pier is open from sunrise to sunset and offers fishing for Snapper, Mackerel, Bluefish, and more. There is a bait shop that rents rods and sells snacks and drinks. You can also see sea turtles nesting on the beach from May to October.
• Flagler Beach Pier: This 806-foot pier is open from 6 a.m. to midnight and offers fishing for Flounder, Whiting, Drum, and more. There is a bait shop that rents rods and sells snacks and drinks. You can also enjoy the views of the Atlantic Ocean and the beach.

What is the best Skyway fishing pier?

Skyway fishing pier is a state park that consists of two fishing piers that were once part of the old Sunshine Skyway Bridge. The piers span the mouth of Tampa Bay and offer some of the best fishing in the area. You can fish for Tarpon, Snook, Redfish, Trout, Cobia, Snapper, Grouper, and more from the piers.

The piers are open 24/7 and charge $4 per vehicle plus $4 per adult or $2 per child aged 6–12 (kids under 5 go free). You do not need a fishing license to fish on the piers. You can drive right up to your fishing spot with your gear, food, and anything else you want. There are also tackle shops at the end of each pier that rent rods and sell bait, snacks, and drinks.

What are the best fishing piers near me?

The answer to this question depends on where you are located in Florida. However, some of the most popular and highly-rated fishing piers in Florida are:

• Naples Pier: This 1,000-foot pier is located on the Gulf Coast and offers fishing for Pompano, Snook, Mackerel, Sheepshead, and more. The pier is open 24/7 and has restrooms, showers, benches, and a concession stand. You can also see dolphins, pelicans, and sunsets from the pier.
• Anglins Fishing Pier: This 876-foot pier is located on the Atlantic Coast and offers fishing for Snapper, Mackerel, Barracuda, Jacks, and more. The pier is open 24/7 and has restrooms, a bait shop, a restaurant, and a bar. You can also enjoy live music and karaoke on weekends.
• Cocoa Beach Pier: This 800-foot pier is located on the Atlantic Coast and offers fishing for Whiting, Pompano, Flounder, Sharks, and more. The pier is open from 6 a.m. to midnight every day and has restrooms, showers, a bait shop, five restaurants and bars, live music, gift shops, and beach rentals.

Where can I find a saltwater pier fishing near my location?

Again, the answer to this question depends on where you are located in Florida. However, some of the best saltwater pier fishing spots in Florida are:

• Pensacola Beach Gulf Pier: This 1,471-foot pier is located on the Gulf Coast and offers fishing for Cobia, King Mackerel, Redfish, Speckled Trout, and more. The pier is open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily and has a bait shop that rents rods and sells bait, snacks, and souvenirs.
• Deerfield Beach Fishing Pier: This 976-foot pier is located on the Atlantic Coast and offers fishing for Pompano, Bluefish, Snook

Which Florida piers have restaurants?

There are many piers in Florida that have restaurants on them or near them. Some examples are:

• Cocoa Beach Pier: This 800-foot pier has five restaurants and bars, including Rikki Tiki Tavern, which is at the end of the pier and offers 360-degree views of the ocean. You can enjoy burgers, wraps, salads, wings, seafood dip, and more. There is also live music on weekends.
• Venice Fishing Pier: This 700-foot pier has a restaurant called Sharky’s on the Pier, which is right next to the pier and offers seafood, steaks, pasta, pizza, and more. You can also enjoy cocktails, live music, and sunset views from the deck.
• Fort De Soto Piers: These two fishing piers are part of Fort De Soto Park, which has a restaurant called The Pier Grill, which is located near the Gulf Pier. You can enjoy burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, salads, ice cream, and more. You can also enjoy the views of the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay.

Which fishing piers offer rod rentals?

If you don’t have your own fishing gear or you want to try fishing for the first time, you can find many fishing piers in Florida that offer rod rentals. Some examples are:

• Skyway Fishing Pier State Park: These two fishing piers are part of the old Sunshine Skyway Bridge and offer some of the best fishing in Tampa Bay. You can rent rods and reels for $8 per day or $4 per half day. You can also buy bait, snacks, and drinks from the tackle shops at the end of each pier.
• Deerfield Beach Fishing Pier: This 976-foot pier offers fishing for pompano, bluefish, snook, and more. You can rent rods for $15 per day or $10 per half day. You can also buy bait, snacks, and souvenirs from the concession stand.
• Pensacola Beach Gulf Pier: This 1,471-foot pier offers fishing for cobia, king mackerel, redfish, speckled trout, and more. You can rent rods for $8 per day or $5 per half day. You can also buy bait, snacks, and souvenirs from the bait shop.

What is the Cocoa Beach Fishing Pier?

Cocoa Beach Fishing Pier is an 800-foot pier that offers fishing for whiting, pompano, flounder, sharks, and more. The pier is open from 6 a.m. to midnight every day and has restrooms, showers, a bait shop, five restaurants and bars, live music, gift shops, and beach rentals. You can also enjoy the views of the beach and the Atlantic Ocean.

The pier charges $2 for admission and $7 for fishing ($6 for seniors and active military, and $4 for youths). Disabled veterans and kids under 5 go free. You do not need a fishing license to fish on the pier. You can rent rods for $15 per day or $10 per half day. You can also buy bait from the bait shop.

Is a Florida pier fishing license necessary?

In general, you do not need a fishing license to fish on public fishing piers in Florida. However, there are some exceptions:

• If you are fishing from a private pier or dock that is not open to the public or does not have a blanket license covering its guests.
• If you are fishing from a bridge or causeway that is not designated as a fishing pier or has signs prohibiting fishing.
• If you are fishing for snook or lobster or using traps or nets that require a special permit.

You can check with the local authorities or the pier operators before you fish to make sure you are following the rules. You can also buy a saltwater fishing license online or from any county tax collector’s office or authorized agent if you want to fish from other locations besides piers.