Pier Fishing Tips

Piers grant boatless anglers access to deeper coastal waters, while proving their fish attractors with plenty of shade, structure and feeding opportunities. Make the most of your pier outings with these tips.

Keep It Together: Commercially manufactured pier carts, modified 2-wheel grocery baskets and even kids' wagons make it easy to wheel your tackle, tools and bait containers onto the pier. Rod holders (PVC pipe will do) are essential, as is space for a cooler and tackle bag.

Simple is Best: Don’t clutter your game by carrying every piece of tackle you own. Think about the common needs and bring multiple spares. From hooks and sinkers for your bottom rigs, to Bomber Saltwater Grade Shad Head Jigs for probing the pier’s pilings and perimeter, a well-planned arsenal keeps you in the game and traveling light.

5-Gallon Bucket: It’s a short-term live bait holder (add portable aerator for more than 5 minutes), a sink for washing fish slime off your hands and a convenient spot for holding your catch en lieu of a cooler. (In warmer conditions or on longer stays, a bag of ice will keep those fish fresh.)

Hint: For lowering the bucket for a sea water fill up, rig several ounces of lead to the metal handle. This dips the  bucket mouth downward to allow water inflow.

Appropriate Gear: Unless you join the big game crowd at the end, 7 1/2- to 8-foot, medium-heavy spinning rods with 30-pound braid and 20- to 30-pound fluorocarbon leaders handle most general pier duties. If mackerel, bluefish or sharks are present, rig a foot of wire leader to prevent bite-offs.