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Skyway Fishing Pier State Park: Angler's Paradise

Experience world-class fishing and breathtaking views at the Skyway Fishing Pier State Park, a unique landmark born from the Sunshine Skyway Bridge's storied past.

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The Skyway Fishing Pier State Park, a unique and historically significant landmark in St. Petersburg, Florida, offers an unparalleled fishing experience. Transformed from the remnants of the old Sunshine Skyway Bridge, it stretches impressively into Tampa Bay, providing anglers access to deep waters and a diverse array of fish species. Open 24/7, the pier is a haven for fishing enthusiasts, offering stunning views and a chance to connect with Florida's marine environment. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a novice, the Skyway Fishing Pier promises an unforgettable adventure, blending history, recreation, and natural beauty into one remarkable destination. Don't forget to check out the educational course required for fishing at the pier.

A brief summary to Skyway Fishing Pier State Park

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Complete the mandatory online educational course at MyFWC.com/Skyway before your visit to comply with fishing regulations.
  • Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, to secure a good fishing spot and parking.
  • Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, as the pier offers limited shade and the Florida sun can be intense.
  • Check the weather forecast before your visit and be prepared for changing conditions, including wind and rain.
  • Dispose of fishing line and hooks properly to protect wildlife and maintain the cleanliness of the park.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From downtown St. Petersburg, follow I-275 South towards the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. The entrance to the North Skyway Fishing Pier is located just before the bridge toll plaza. Be careful when exiting I-275, as it's easy to accidentally continue onto the bridge. The entrance fee is $4 per vehicle, plus $4 per adult and $2 per child (ages 6-12). Keep in mind that the Sunshine Skyway Bridge has a toll of $1.50, which you'll need to pay if you accidentally pass the entrance to the pier.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From anywhere in St. Petersburg, a taxi or ride-sharing service (Uber/Lyft) offers a direct route to the Skyway Fishing Pier State Park. The ride typically takes around 15-20 minutes from downtown St. Petersburg and costs approximately $28-$35. Remember to specify 'North Skyway Fishing Pier' to ensure you're taken to the correct entrance. Upon arrival, you'll still need to pay the park entrance fee of $4 per vehicle, plus $4 per adult and $2 per child (ages 6-12).

  • Public Transport

    While there isn't a direct bus route to the Skyway Fishing Pier State Park, you can take the PSTA Route 11 towards 25th Way S. Get off at Pinellas Point Dr S + 23Rd St S, and then take a taxi or ride-sharing service for the remaining 4 miles to the pier. The bus fare is $2.25, and the taxi/ride-share will cost approximately $12-$18. Be sure to check the bus schedule and plan accordingly, as service may be limited on weekends and holidays. Keep in mind that you'll still need to pay the park entrance fee upon arrival.

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Discover more about Skyway Fishing Pier State Park

Skyway Fishing Pier State Park is a testament to innovative repurposing, transforming tragedy into a treasured recreational space. The park occupies the approaches to the original Sunshine Skyway Bridge, which dramatically collapsed in 1980 when the freighter MV Summit Venture struck a support column during a storm, resulting in the loss of 35 lives. The new Sunshine Skyway Bridge was completed in 1987, and rather than demolishing the remaining structure of the old bridge, the state of Florida ingeniously converted it into the world's longest fishing pier. Today, the Skyway Fishing Pier State Park extends for miles into Tampa Bay, offering unparalleled access to deep-water fishing. Anglers can drive directly onto the pier, park steps away from their chosen fishing spot, and cast their lines into waters teeming with marine life. The pier's unique structure creates an ideal environment for a wide variety of fish species, attracting both recreational and experienced anglers year-round. The park is divided into two separate piers, one on the north side accessible from St. Petersburg and another on the south side accessible from Bradenton. Each pier offers its own distinct perspective and fishing opportunities, ensuring a diverse experience for visitors. The pier is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, allowing anglers to fish at any time of day or night. The pier is well-lit, making night fishing a particularly popular activity, as the lights attract many species of fish. Fishing is the primary draw to Skyway Fishing Pier State Park, and the variety of fish that can be caught is impressive. Common catches include snook, tarpon, grouper, black sea bass, Spanish mackerel, king mackerel, cobia, sheepshead, red snapper, and pompano. The artificial reefs created from the demolished sections of the old bridge provide habitats for numerous species, enhancing the fishing experience. To ensure the conservation of marine life and promote responsible angling, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has implemented specific regulations for fishing at the Skyway Fishing Pier State Park. As of October 2023, all anglers are required to complete an online educational course and possess a Certificate of Course Completion, valid for 12 months. This course aims to educate anglers on responsible fishing practices and minimize the entanglement of seabirds in fishing gear. Additionally, gear restrictions are in place from November 15 to March 15, prohibiting the use of fishing rigs with more than one hook and multiple hooks to further protect seabirds. Beyond fishing, the Skyway Fishing Pier State Park offers opportunities for sightseeing, photography, and enjoying the natural beauty of Tampa Bay. The panoramic views of the bay, the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, and the surrounding coastline are breathtaking, making it a popular spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts. Visitors can also enjoy activities such as kiteboarding, kayaking, and windsurfing in the waters around the pier. The Skyway Fishing Pier State Park is more than just a fishing pier; it is a symbol of resilience, innovation, and community spirit. It represents the transformation of a tragic event into a valuable recreational asset, providing enjoyment and economic benefits to the region. The park's unique history, diverse fishing opportunities, and stunning natural beauty make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Tampa Bay area. While visiting the Skyway Fishing Pier State Park, consider exploring other nearby attractions. Fort De Soto Park, located a short drive away, offers pristine beaches, nature trails, and historical sites. The Dali Museum in downtown St. Petersburg showcases the works of Salvador Dali, while the vibrant arts and culture scene of St. Petersburg provides a variety of entertainment options. Whether you're an avid angler, a nature lover, or simply seeking a unique and memorable experience, the Skyway Fishing Pier State Park offers something for everyone. Its rich history, diverse activities, and stunning scenery make it a true gem of the Florida State Park system. Remember to check the park's website for the latest information on fees, regulations, and events before planning your visit. The Skyway Fishing Pier State Park stands as a beacon of hope and recreation, drawing visitors from near and far to experience its unique charm and abundant fishing opportunities. It is a place where memories are made, traditions are honored, and the spirit of the Sunshine State shines brightly. Considered the world's longest fishing pier, the Skyway Fishing Pier State Park offers opportunities to enjoy the weather, get great views on the Sunshine Skyway, go saltwater fishing and see Florida wildlife. Two separate piers make up the park. The south Skyway Fishing Pier, access is from Bradenton (Manatee County). To visit the north pier, you travel from St. Petersburg (Pinellas County).

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