Pier Fishing, Shore Fishing & Beyond

Jacksonville is a fishing enthusiast’s tropical paradise. With Jacksonville’s multiple fishing piers, rivers, and the Atlantic Ocean lapping at its dreamy beach shores, there are so many places to reel in fish while enjoying the city’s sun-soaked days. Whether you’re interested in surf fishing in Jacksonville Beach or heading out on a charter fishing boat, there’s something for everyone while you’re staying at Margaritaville Beach Hotel Jacksonville Beach. 

Don’t miss out on shore fishing or pier fishing in Jacksonville Beach, Florida—plan your trip and make your way to some of our favorite places to fish. 

Do Some Jacksonville Beach Pier Fishing

Just steps away from our beachfront hotel is the Jacksonville Beach Pier, a fantastic place to drop a fishing line. The pier is a quarter-of-a-mile long, stretching out into the Atlantic Ocean, and spending time on it is an experience in and of itself. There’s a nominal fee for day fishing at the pier, which allows visitors to fish without a state fishing license. Plus, rod rentals are conveniently available on-site. Afterwards, stroll down Jacksonville Beach’s sandy shores, relishing its tropical vibes. 

Head to Trout River Bridge Pier

The old Trout River Bridge near downtown Jacksonville is a fishing bridge that attracts anglers of all abilities. It’s small and sits on the Trout River. There’s no restroom here, but there are catfish, redfish, and speckled trout swimming in the waters below. If you need tackle, head to the Trout River Fish Co., a nearby seafood market. 

Cast a Line at Jacksonville’s Dames Point Fishing Pier

Bring along your picnic basket for a cheeseburger in paradise at this local fishing spot. Sitting at Dames Point Park north of downtown Jacksonville, this gorgeous pier offers great views of the Napoleon Bonaparte Broward Bridge, a cable-stayed bridge that’s known for being the longest of its kind in the country. Dames Point Fishing Pier sits right along the St. Johns River, offering good fishing for trout. The park has restrooms and parking, along with picnic tables to take a break for lunch. 

Go Off-Shore Fishing in a Charter Boat in Jacksonville

Head to the Atlantic Ocean for the best saltwater fishing spot in Jacksonville, Florida. Whether you’re new to fishing or an experienced fisherman, gather friends and family together to spend a day offshore fishing. Jacksonville is home to a number of professional fishing charter companies, making it easy to find an experienced guide to experience the best of saltwater fishing. There’s even shark fishing—or at least shark spotting. While you’re out on the water, keep an eye out for dolphins, barracudas, and sharks. 

Reel in Fish at St. Marys River

For great bank fishing near Jacksonville, hop in the car for a short drive north to St. Marys River. Originating in the Okefenokee Swamp in Georgia, this beautiful river becomes a tidal river as it flows toward Jacksonville. Cast your line for striped bass, flounder, and speckled sea trout in the salt marsh area near the ocean and redbreast sunfish and small largemouth bass further upstream. There are more than 60 types of freshwater fish in the river up from the ocean. Afterwards, head back to our beachfront restaurant LandShark Lookout to enjoy a frozen concoction as the sun sets. 

Catch Fish at Little Talbot State Park

For a more secluded fishing experience, venture to Little Talbot State Park in Jacksonville. Located about an hour’s drive away, the state park offers fantastic surf fishing along five miles of gorgeous sandy beach. Head here for a great day of relaxation in the sun. There’s three miles of bike trails to make exploring easy and fun on this barrier island. Amelia Island State Park also offers fishing along the Nassau River where you may catch shrimp and mullet to use as bait.

Whether you’re an experienced angler, hobbyist, or simply want to take advantage of all the amazing things to do in Jacksonville Beach, Margaritaville Beach Hotel is your ultimate base for relaxation during your next Florida fishing vacation.