Tony Saprito Fishing Pier - Image 1
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Tony Saprito Fishing Pier

4.6
·228 reviews·Sarasota, United States

Cast a line or soak in stunning sunsets at Tony Saprito Fishing Pier, a beloved free spot on Sarasota Bay.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer boats, better fishing

CrowdLow
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Tony Saprito Fishing Pier - Image 1

Tony Saprito Fishing Pier

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer boats, better fishing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Cast a line or soak in stunning sunsets at Tony Saprito Fishing Pier, a beloved free spot on Sarasota Bay.

4.6
(228 reviews)

"A beautiful and peaceful place to spend the evening with gorgeous views."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎣 Bring Live Bait

Live shrimp and lures are recommended for catching speckled trout and other fish.

🌅 Catch the Sunset

The pier offers stunning sunset views over Sarasota Bay. Don't miss it!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tony Saprito Fishing Pier

Tony Saprito Fishing Pier

Sarasota Bay

Cast a line and enjoy the Sarasota Bay breeze at this beloved local fishing spot.

Sunset Views

Sunset Views

Over Sarasota Bay

Witness breathtaking sunsets painting the sky over Sarasota Bay from the pier.

Sarasota Bay Wildlife

Sarasota Bay Wildlife

Around the pier

Keep an eye out for jumping mullet and other marine life in the vibrant Sarasota Bay.

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Planning Your Visit

Pier Status & Access

The Tony Saprito Fishing Pier has undergone renovations and reopened. While generally accessible, be aware of potential temporary closures due to weather or maintenance. Check local announcements before your visit to ensure a smooth experience. Instagram+1

Fishing & Boat Traffic

While a popular spot for fishing, some visitors note significant boat traffic, which can impact fishing success. Consider visiting during off-peak hours for a more peaceful experience and potentially better fishing conditions. Reddit

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer boats, better fishing
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings
Why
Spectacular sunsets
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Sarasota Bay 💙🌊 #beach #fishingpier #speckledtrout
@oneheckofastory
10 likes • 141 views

🎣 Bring Live Bait

Live shrimp and lures are recommended for catching speckled trout and other fish. TikTokReddit

🌅 Catch the Sunset

The pier offers stunning sunset views over Sarasota Bay. Don't miss it! TikTokReddit

Sarasota Fishing off pier. #fish #shrimp #fun #florida #sarasota
@iamchadmitchell
5 likes • 99 views
SNEAK PEEK - The Tony Saprito Fishing Pier is scheduled to reopen next week! City Manager Marlon Brown and the project team, including the Public Works Department and Parks and Recreation, conducted a site inspection this morning -- and the renovated pier and new amenities are impressive. The pier remains temporarily closed for the next week while crews complete the finishing touches. Stay tune...
cityofsarasota
330 likes • 0 views

🚗 Parking & Amenities

Free parking is available. Restrooms are across the street at the adjacent park. Reddit

🛥️ Boat Traffic Awareness

Be mindful of motorboat traffic, which can affect fishing. Reddit+1

SAPRITO PIER REOPENS - The T.J. “Tony” Saprito Fishing Pier has reopened to the public, City of Sarasota Parks and Recreation officials announced Wednesday. A section of wooden panels was lifted out of its landing recess last week during high wave action in Sarasota Bay, prompting a temporary closure. The panels worked as designed but sustained some minor damage from the impact of the waves and, ...
cityofsarasota
78 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎣 Bring Live Bait

Live shrimp and lures are recommended for catching speckled trout and other fish. TikTokReddit

🌅 Catch the Sunset

The pier offers stunning sunset views over Sarasota Bay. Don't miss it! TikTokReddit

🚗 Parking & Amenities

Free parking is available. Restrooms are across the street at the adjacent park. Reddit

🛥️ Boat Traffic Awareness

Be mindful of motorboat traffic, which can affect fishing. Reddit+1

📱 Check Reopening Status

Confirm pier status after weather events; it has reopened after past closures. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.6
(228 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors appreciate the Tony Saprito Fishing Pier for its beautiful sunset views and free access, making it a pleasant spot to enjoy Sarasota Bay. However, some find the motorboat traffic disruptive to fishing and note the absence of direct restroom facilities at the pier itself.

"Very cute little park to enjoy the sunset and fish"

Martha Nunez

"So much motor boat traffic! Large sandbar across from here, picnic tables. No restrooms. At the park across the street there are restrooms. Trash cans and grills. Picnic tables under shade. Walking trails in the sun. No jumping mullet here. Lots of people swimming at sandbar with personal motor boats parked."

Natalia Spinelli

"Update 3/2025 no piers! Ahem Sarasota too interested in breaking the bank for a new unwanted Van Wezel & Orchestra location to pay attention to the free piers. Really inexpensive in comparison to stuff across the bay. Aren't all the new property taxes helping? Seriously rebuild the piers! (Or is it because no $$ to be made? Beautiful park, but sadly no fish due to the boat traffic."

Celeste

What People Like

Beautiful sunset views
Free access and parking
Scenic bay location

What People Dislike

Motorboat traffic
No direct restrooms

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Tony Saprito Fishing Pier is located in Sarasota, Florida, on Sarasota Bay. It's easily accessible by car, with free parking available nearby. TikTokReddit

Yes, there is free parking available for visitors to the pier and the adjacent park. Reddit

While the park is generally open 24 hours, the restrooms may close at 10 PM, and have been found locked earlier. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, access to the Tony Saprito Fishing Pier and the surrounding park is free for all visitors. Reddit

The pier is generally accessible, but it's advisable to check for any temporary closures due to weather or maintenance. Instagram+1

Florida fishing regulations apply. It's recommended to check the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) website for current license requirements. TikTok

🎫 🎣 Onsite Experience

Anglers often report catching speckled trout. Other common catches in Sarasota Bay include various baitfish and potentially snook or redfish depending on the season. TikTok+1

Live shrimp and lures are frequently recommended for success at the pier. TikTokReddit

The pier is a popular spot for all skill levels, but some visitors note that boat traffic can make it challenging. Reddit+1

Restroom facilities are not directly at the pier but are available at the park across the street. Reddit

While people swim at the sandbar across from the pier, swimming directly around the pier might be affected by boat traffic. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The pier offers fantastic opportunities for capturing stunning sunset views over Sarasota Bay, as well as shots of local wildlife and the Sarasota skyline. TikTokReddit

While known for sunsets, early mornings can also offer beautiful light for photography, especially with fewer boats. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Tony Saprito Fishing Pier can be a fun outing for families. Kids can enjoy watching the boats and looking for marine life in Sarasota Bay. TikTok While fishing might be the main activity, the adjacent park offers picnic tables and walking paths for a more relaxed experience. Reddit It's a great spot for a casual afternoon, especially if you pack some snacks and enjoy the bay views. Remember that restrooms are located across the street, so plan accordingly. Reddit

🎣 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Tony Saprito Fishing Pier is an excellent choice as it offers free access and free parking. Reddit You can enjoy fishing, beautiful sunset views, and the general ambiance of Sarasota Bay without spending a dime. TikTokReddit Bringing your own fishing gear and bait will keep costs down, and the nearby park provides picnic facilities for a cost-effective meal. It's a fantastic way to experience a local Sarasota attraction without breaking the bank. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Fishing at Tony Saprito Pier

Tony Saprito Fishing Pier is a well-known spot for anglers in Sarasota, Florida. Visitors often come here hoping to catch species like speckled trout, as mentioned in various social media posts. TikTok+1 The pier provides a convenient platform to cast lines into Sarasota Bay. However, it's important to note that some visitors have experienced challenges due to significant motorboat traffic, which can sometimes make fishing difficult. Reddit+1 For those looking to maximize their chances, using live shrimp or lures is a commonly suggested tactic. TikTokReddit

Despite the potential for boat traffic, the pier remains a popular destination for both experienced fishermen and beginners. The accessibility and scenic location contribute to its appeal. Some Redditors have shared their struggles with catching fish, highlighting the need for patience and perhaps trying different times of day or bait. Reddit The pier has also undergone renovations, ensuring a maintained and enjoyable experience for visitors. Instagram+1

The Sarasota Experience: Beyond Fishing

While fishing is a primary draw, Tony Saprito Fishing Pier offers more than just angling opportunities. It's a prime location for enjoying the natural beauty of Sarasota. The pier provides spectacular sunset views over Sarasota Bay, making it a favorite spot for photographers and those seeking a peaceful evening. TikTokReddit The vibrant colors of the sky reflecting on the water create a memorable visual experience. Visitors can also observe local wildlife, including jumping mullet, adding to the natural charm of the area. TikTok

The surrounding park area offers additional amenities, such as picnic tables and walking trails, though restrooms are located across the street. Reddit The pier's proximity to the Moat Marine facility and the Sarasota skyline offers a picturesque backdrop. It's considered a pleasant and free place to visit in the Sarasota-Bradenton area, contributing to the overall Sarasota experience. Reddit The pier's accessibility and scenic beauty make it a worthwhile stop even if you're not planning to fish. TikTok+1

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