Skyway Fishing Pier

The Skyway Fishing Pier State Park in Palmetto, Florida, is one of the most unique fishing destinations in the United States — the world's longest fishing pier, built from the remnants of the original Sunshine Skyway Bridge. After the original bridge was struck by a freighter in 1980 and partially collapsed, the approach spans on both sides of Tampa Bay were converted into massive fishing piers, with the South Pier extending over a mile into the bay from the Manatee County shoreline.

It's the only state park in Florida where you can drive your car directly onto the pier, park within feet of your fishing spot, and fish 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

What Makes It Special

• Drive-on access — Park within steps of your spot. No hauling gear long distances.
• Open 24/7 — Night fishing is encouraged. The pier is fully lit, and the lights attract bait, which in turn attract larger fish.
• No fishing license required — Your park entry fee covers it, making this one of the easiest places in Florida to legally drop a line.
• Restrooms, bait shop, snacks, and drinks all on-site.

What You'll Catch

The South Pier is renowned for the variety and size of fish pulled from its waters. Common catches include:

• Snook — A Florida favorite, best at dawn and dusk
• Tarpon — The "silver king" runs heavy in late spring and summer
• Grouper — Black grouper and gag grouper are regular
• Spanish mackerel & king mackerel — Fast, hard-fighting fish
• Cobia — Often spotted around pilings in spring
• Sheepshead — Bait with shrimp or fiddler crabs near the structure
• Red snapper, pompano, black sea bass and many more

The pier sits in the deep waters of the Tampa Bay shipping channel, which means you're fishing some of the most productive saltwater in Florida without ever leaving land.

Seasonal Guide

• Spring (March–May): Pompano, Spanish mackerel, kingfish runs, cobia
• Summer (June–August): Tarpon, snook, mangrove snapper — peak season for trophy fish but also the hottest
• Fall (September–November): Some of the best overall fishing of the year; mixed action
• Winter (December–February): Sheepshead is the headliner; cool, comfortable conditions and smaller crowds

Tips for First-Timers

• Arrive at night or pre-dawn for the best fishing and easiest parking
• Bait shop on the pier sells live shrimp, frozen bait, and basic tackle — convenient but pricier than coming prepared
• Bring a pier net or gaff — landing larger fish from the pier height is a real challenge without one
• Rod holders and a cart are worth the investment if you're a serious angler
• Family-friendly — easy access, restrooms, and the chance to catch dinner make it a great outing with kids

North Pier vs. South Pier

The Skyway has two piers from the original bridge:

• South Pier (Palmetto, Manatee County) — Longer, generally considered the better fishing pier, with deeper water access
• North Pier (St. Petersburg, Pinellas County) — Slightly shorter, also excellent, more crowded due to proximity to St. Pete

Both are operated as part of the same state park system and follow the same rules.

Practical Info

• Location: 7904 Interstate 275, Palmetto, Florida (South Pier access)
• Hours: 24/7, 365 days a year
• Entry fee: Per-vehicle fee (~$4–$6, includes fishing license coverage)
• Restrooms: Yes
• Bait & tackle shop: On-site
• Pets: Allowed on leash
• No swimming or diving — this is an active shipping channel with strong currents
• Sunshine Skyway Bridge tolls: Apply if you're crossing the new bridge to get to the pier