Pier and Bridge Fishing
GENERAL: There are more than sixty fishing piers dotting both coasts of Florida available for recreational fishing. Some charge a fee and some are free. Many conveniences are offered, such as restrooms, telephones, bait shops with tackle sales or rentals, and fish cleaning tables.
WHAT THIS PAGE OFFERS: This purpose of this page is to provide you with a list of some of the public piers/bridges available within an easy drive from The Villages. It also lists the more common species of fish and which seasons are best for each type. For newcomer fishermen, it is best to scout the piers or call them to verify their operating hours, rates, conditions and restrictions.
THE INFORMATION LISTED ON THIS WEBPAGE CONCERNING THESE ITEMS (operating hours, rates, etc.)MAY NOT REFLECT THE CURRENT INFORMATION FOR EACH INDIVIDUAL LOCATION.
Rules are usually posted at each pier. Many have restrictions on the number of rods per angler, shark fishing, use of cast nets or snag hooks, and alcoholic beverages.
METHODS: Pier fishing requires the same methods as those used when fishing from an anchored boat. Medium weight spinning rods are usually sufficient, but heavy duty bait casting rods may be used/required if fishing close to the pier or when using trolley fishing techniques. It is best to seek advice from the pier operators and local anglers on preferred bait and rigging details. Most fishermen are more than willing to share their knowledge and opinions.
SAFETY: Safety is very important when fishing or casting from a pier or bridge. Sidearm and overhead casting can be very dangerous to anyone standing close or walking by. Use underhand casting whenever possible. Do not leave open tackles boxes or knives laying around where someone could trip over them or knock them into the water. Never leave your pole leaning against the rail unattended. You may lose a large fish or cause a mass tangle with those near you because of a wild running fish. Use rod holders on the railing or safety ropes/chains. Avoid casting into boat channels. Think of safety first and your fishing time will be most enjoyable.
WHAT THIS PAGE OFFERS: This purpose of this page is to provide you with a list of some of the public piers/bridges available within an easy drive from The Villages. It also lists the more common species of fish and which seasons are best for each type. For newcomer fishermen, it is best to scout the piers or call them to verify their operating hours, rates, conditions and restrictions.
THE INFORMATION LISTED ON THIS WEBPAGE CONCERNING THESE ITEMS (operating hours, rates, etc.)MAY NOT REFLECT THE CURRENT INFORMATION FOR EACH INDIVIDUAL LOCATION.
Rules are usually posted at each pier. Many have restrictions on the number of rods per angler, shark fishing, use of cast nets or snag hooks, and alcoholic beverages.
METHODS: Pier fishing requires the same methods as those used when fishing from an anchored boat. Medium weight spinning rods are usually sufficient, but heavy duty bait casting rods may be used/required if fishing close to the pier or when using trolley fishing techniques. It is best to seek advice from the pier operators and local anglers on preferred bait and rigging details. Most fishermen are more than willing to share their knowledge and opinions.
SAFETY: Safety is very important when fishing or casting from a pier or bridge. Sidearm and overhead casting can be very dangerous to anyone standing close or walking by. Use underhand casting whenever possible. Do not leave open tackles boxes or knives laying around where someone could trip over them or knock them into the water. Never leave your pole leaning against the rail unattended. You may lose a large fish or cause a mass tangle with those near you because of a wild running fish. Use rod holders on the railing or safety ropes/chains. Avoid casting into boat channels. Think of safety first and your fishing time will be most enjoyable.
When and Where to Catch the "Popular 10"
Pier Fishing Locations - Atlantic and on the Gulf Coast