Article Summary
Salt Water Fishing License Requirements
Generally, saltwater fishing licenses are required for Florida residents and visitors; however, those fishing from piers that hold a Salt Water Pier Fishing License are exempt from needing a license while fishing from that pier.
Pier 60 – Clearwater
Sunsets on the Gulf of Mexico are legendary, and the sunsets at Pier 60 in Clearwater Beach are truly a reason to celebrate! Hundreds gather each evening to enjoy the spectacular view, festive atmosphere, and live entertainment on one of the Gulf’s best beaches.
Skyway Fishing Pier State Park
Advertised as the world’s longest fishing pier, it was formed from the old Skyway Bridge after it was damaged in the well-publicized shipping accident of 1980. The pier is open 24 hours a day and is well-lit for anglers to enjoy round-the-clock saltwater fishing.
Cocoa Beach Pier
Situated on the iconic beach famous for surfing, this historical landmark features five restaurants, four bars, live entertainment, and an 800 ft. long fishing pier that extends into the Atlantic Ocean.
Daytona Beach Pier
Whether you visit for the adjacent boardwalk amusement thrills, to cast a line and catch dinner, or to enjoy the popular Crabby Joes Restaurant, which serves some of the best seafood in the area, staying for the sunset is a must—it is absolutely beautiful!
Mallory Square Pier – Key West
A nightly ritual in Key West celebrates the dramatic sunsets at Mallory Square and the historic pier overlooking Key West Harbor and the Gulf of Mexico. The orange-red sky creates an enchanting backdrop for the carnival-like atmosphere, complete with live entertainment.
Jacksonville Beach Pier
This handicap-accessible pier measures an impressive 20 feet wide and extends 1,320 feet into the Atlantic. It provides anglers access to deep-water species of fish and is equipped with fish cleaning stations, bait shops, concessions, and restrooms. Notably, no saltwater fishing license is required, but hours are limited and a small admission fee applies.
Pensacola Beach Gulf Pier
Boasting itself as the longest and friendliest pier on the Gulf of Mexico, the Pensacola Beach Gulf Pier is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned fisherman, you will find a welcoming atmosphere. In addition to pole and equipment rental, the diner serves hamburgers, hotdogs, snacks, and drinks. If fishing isn’t your thing, the pier offers plenty of sights, including marine birds and breathtaking sunsets perfect for photography.
Fort Desoto Pier
Pinellas County’s Fort DeSoto Park features two fishing piers—one on the bay-side and one on the Gulf of Mexico. The Gulf Pier is the longer of the two, extending 1,000 feet, with no fishing license required. Regardless of whether you catch any fish, the views of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge and historic Egmont Key are spectacular.
Naples Pier
This historic landmark is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It is a favored location for both visitors and locals to fish, people-watch, bird-watch, dolphin-watch, and observe the vibrant sunsets into the Gulf of Mexico.
