Boat Ramps Nearby

Fishing pier tips

Updated: October 16, 2026

Pier fishing is the easiest way to reach deeper water without a boat. Bring a cart for your cooler and rods, a drop net to lift fish up, and bait that matches what's biting locally. Fish close to the pilings, pay attention to the tide, and check the license rules first: some states cover anglers on public or licensed piers, but most expect you to have your own license.

We list 915 fishing piers and fishing access sites across the US. Find one on the fishing pier map.

Do you need a license on a pier?

StateLicense on a pier
CaliforniaNo license on a public pier: connected to shore, free and open to the public, built mainly for fishing. Size limits, bag limits and seasons still apply, and you may use at most two rods or lines.
FloridaNo saltwater license if the pier holds a valid saltwater pier license. Otherwise residents need at least the free shoreline license. Anglers under 16 are exempt.
North CarolinaA coastal recreational fishing license is required unless the pier has bought a blanket license. Ocean piers with a pier license include that coverage.
Most other statesA regular fishing license, fresh or saltwater, as for fishing from shore.

Ask at the pier office or bait shop if you're not sure. Many states also have free fishing days.

What to bring

Pier gear that earns its place

We haven't tested these ourselves; we chose them by size and specs. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. Check the current price on Amazon.

Where and when fish bite

Fish gather around pilings for shade, shelter and food, so start close to the structure. On the coast, moving water during the hours around high and low tide is often better than slack tide. Light at night attracts baitfish, which is why some piers stay open late. On lakes and rivers, fishing docks over deeper water or near weed edges work the same way.

Pier etiquette

These are courtesy rules, not laws, but regulars will thank you:

Sources

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a fishing license to fish from a pier?

Usually yes, but there are exceptions. In California you need no license on a public pier. In Florida you don't need your own saltwater license on a pier that holds a pier license, and in North Carolina the same goes for piers with a blanket license. Size and bag limits still apply.

What is the best time to fish from a pier?

Moving water is usually best, so many pier anglers fish the hours around a tide change on the coast. Early morning and evening are also good, and they are quieter.

Where do fish hold around a pier?

Near the pilings. They give shade and shelter and attract baitfish. Try close to the pilings before casting far out.

How do I get a big fish up onto a pier?

With a drop net (pier net) or a pier gaff on a rope. Lifting a heavy fish by the line often breaks it.