Venice Fishing Pier at Sunset
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Venice Fishing Pier

4.7
·1k reviews·Venice, United States

Iconic 700-ft pier offering free fishing, no license needed, and breathtaking Gulf sunsets.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late afternoon to sunset

Spectacular golden hour views

CrowdMedium
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Venice Fishing Pier at Sunset

Venice Fishing Pier

Best Time

Late afternoon to sunset

Spectacular golden hour views

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic 700-ft pier offering free fishing, no license needed, and breathtaking Gulf sunsets.

4.7
(1k reviews)

"A must-visit gem on Florida's Gulf Coast for fishing dreams and beach vibes."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎣 No License Needed!

Fish from the pier without a license! Rod & reel rentals are available too.

🌅 Sunset Spectacle

Catch the sky ablaze with color. A must-do for photographers and romantics!

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sunset Views

Sunset Views

Venice Fishing Pier

Witness breathtaking sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico, a truly magical experience.

Pier Fishing

Pier Fishing

Venice Fishing Pier

Cast a line into the Gulf for free, no license needed! Catch snook, tarpon, and more.

Sharky's on the Pier

Sharky's on the Pier

Beginning of the pier

Enjoy fresh seafood and lively vibes with fantastic ocean views at this popular spot.

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Planning Your Visit

Pier Access & Conditions

The Venice Fishing Pier is generally open 24/7 and free to access, with no fishing license required for pier fishing.TikTokInstagram+1 However, parts of the pier may be closed for repairs following hurricane damage, so check current conditions before your visit.InstagramReddit Amenities like bait shops and restaurants might have limited hours or be closed seasonally.Reddit

Best Times for Sunsets & Fishing

For stunning sunset views, aim for late afternoon and early evening.TikTokInstagram+1 Early mornings are also recommended for a peaceful experience and potentially better fishing luck.TikTok+1 Weekends and holidays can get crowded, especially during spring break.TikTokInstagram

Best Times

When
Late afternoon to sunset
Why
Spectacular golden hour views
Crowd
Medium
When
Early mornings
Why
Peaceful fishing & fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Avoid weekend crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

sunsets on the beach make me so happy 🥹🌅🌊 #venicebeach #venicefishingpier #veniceflorida #swfl #swflmom
@katie.elizabethhhh
16 likes • 354 views

🎣 No License Needed!

Fish from the pier without a license! Rod & reel rentals are available too. TikTokInstagram+1

🌅 Sunset Spectacle

Catch the sky ablaze with color. A must-do for photographers and romantics! TikTokInstagram

#venicefishingpier #sharkysonthepier #venicefl #sunset #venicebeach
@mikaylah_with_a_h
13 likes • 168 views
VENICE PIER PARTIALLY REOPEN! 🎏 🌊 The Venice Municipal Fishing Pier has partially reopened to the public this morning, Thursday, Nov. 21, following repairs from Hurricanes Helene and Milton. A structural engineer has approved reopening the pier beyond the bait shop up to the second fish-cleaning station. Visitors are encouraged to follow posted signs and respect the fenced-off areas. As Sharky’s...
cityofveniceflorida
305 likes • 5.4K views

🍽️ Dine with a View

Sharky's on the Pier offers great food and stunning Gulf vistas. TikTokInstagram

🚶‍♀️ Stroll & Explore

Enjoy a leisurely walk, even if you're not fishing. Great for photos! TikTokInstagram

Little things! Venice Fishing Pier/Sharkey's Style! Fun place to go my friends! 4/14/24 11:30am #veniceflorida #sharkys #FloridaLife #saltlife #foryoupage
m.e.johnlewisphotography
2 likes • 18 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎣 No License Needed!

Fish from the pier without a license! Rod & reel rentals are available too. TikTokInstagram+1

🌅 Sunset Spectacle

Catch the sky ablaze with color. A must-do for photographers and romantics! TikTokInstagram

🍽️ Dine with a View

Sharky's on the Pier offers great food and stunning Gulf vistas. TikTokInstagram

🚶‍♀️ Stroll & Explore

Enjoy a leisurely walk, even if you're not fishing. Great for photos! TikTokInstagram

⚠️ Check for Closures

Hurricanes can cause damage. Verify pier access before you go. InstagramReddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Venice Fishing Pier for its free access, no-license fishing, and stunning sunset views. It's a beloved spot for anglers and sightseers alike, with Sharky's restaurant offering a great dining experience. However, some visitors note that parts of the pier can be closed due to hurricane damage, and amenities might have limited hours.

"Caught some fish. All the amenities were closed. No bait no snacks. Half the pier is closed off. At least it looked like it was being repaired. Good place to toss in a line."

Kersmack0 TF2

"Apart from being damaged by the hurricane 🌀, The Venice Fishing Pier is a great place for an all in one event. Food, great views from the pier and swimming in the warm waters of the Gulf."

Elvis Dizdar

"Tony and I visited Venice Beach & the Venice Pier! There was free parking and it was free to walk out on the pier! There is some damage to end of pier so you can't go all the way
The beach is darker and course than Siesta Key Beach! Definitely would go again but honestly not my favorite!
Tony Vanoy Lisa Diane Boyce-Vanoy
#vacayinthesouth2025"

Lisa Boyce

What People Like

Free entry and fishing
Spectacular sunsets
Good fishing opportunities

What People Dislike

Occasional pier closures
Limited amenity hours

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Venice Fishing Pier is located at Brohard Beach Park in Venice, Florida. It's easily accessible by car, with free parking available at the beach.Instagram Many visitors arrive by car and enjoy the scenic drive along the coast. Some TikTok videos show people arriving by boat, suggesting it's a scenic destination from the water as well.Instagram

Yes, there is free parking available at Brohard Beach Park, adjacent to the Venice Fishing Pier.Instagram This makes it convenient for visitors driving to the location. Arrive early, especially on weekends or during peak season, to secure a spot.

Venice Beach and the Venice Fishing Pier are closely connected. You can easily walk from Venice Beach to the pier, enjoying the coastal scenery along the way. It's a popular route for those wanting to experience both areas.TikTok

The pier is generally accessible, though some sections might be closed for repairs due to hurricane damage.InstagramReddit The main areas are typically flat and easy to navigate. Check local updates for the most current accessibility information.

Driving is the most common and convenient way to reach the Venice Fishing Pier, thanks to the ample free parking at Brohard Beach.Instagram For those staying nearby, a leisurely bike ride or a walk along the beach is also a pleasant option.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to the Venice Fishing Pier is completely free! You don't need a ticket to walk out on the pier and enjoy the views.TikTokInstagram+1

Great news for anglers: no fishing license is required to fish from the Venice Fishing Pier! This makes it a very accessible spot for everyone to try their luck.TikTokInstagram+1

The Venice Fishing Pier is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, making it accessible for early morning fishing or late-night strolls.TikTok+1 However, specific amenities like bait shops or restaurants may have their own operating hours.

Yes, you can typically rent fishing gear, including rods and reels, at the pier. There's often a bait shack available for purchasing bait and tackle as well.Reddit

While the pier is generally open 24/7, it has experienced closures due to hurricane damage.InstagramReddit It's always a good idea to check for any temporary closures or repair updates before your visit.

🎫 🎣 Fishing & Activities

Anglers at the Venice Fishing Pier can expect to catch a variety of Gulf species, including snook, tarpon, redfish, mackerel, and even sharks.TikTok+1 The pier is a popular spot for both recreational and sport fishing.TikTok

Common fishing techniques include soaking bait for larger species, using lures like bucktails and swimbaits, and casting spoons.Reddit Many visitors enjoy pier fishing for its accessibility and the chance to catch diverse marine life.TikTok+1

While specific real-time reports might be harder to find online, local anglers and bait shops often have insights into current fishing conditions. Checking local fishing forums or asking at the bait shack can provide valuable information.Reddit

Beyond fishing, the pier is a prime spot for sightseeing, photography, and enjoying spectacular sunsets.TikTokInstagram+1 You can also find Sharky's on the Pier restaurant at the beginning of the pier for dining with a view.TikTok

Yes, it's not uncommon to spot dolphins playing in the water or various seabirds. There have even been rare sightings of larger wildlife like Florida panthers or bobcats near the pier area.Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography & Views

The Venice Fishing Pier is a photographer's dream! Capture stunning sunsets, the vast Gulf of Mexico, and the pier's iconic structure.TikTokInstagram+1 The beach itself also offers beautiful coastal shots.

Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, provides the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photos.TikTokInstagram+1 Early mornings offer a serene atmosphere with fewer people.

From the pier, you'll have panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico, the coastline, and the beach. It's a great vantage point to appreciate the natural beauty of Venice, Florida.Instagram

Regulations regarding drone usage can vary by location and park. It's advisable to check with the City of Venice Parks and Recreation department for specific rules about flying drones near the pier and beach areas.

Absolutely! If you're lucky, you might spot dolphins, sea turtles, or even sharks from the pier, offering unique photographic opportunities.TikTokInstagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Sharky's on the Pier is located at the beginning of the pier and offers a full dining experience with seafood and other options.TikTokInstagram There's also a smaller bait shack on the pier that might sell snacks.Reddit

Sharky's on the Pier serves a variety of fresh seafood, including shrimp, fish, and other beach-friendly dishes. They also offer other American cuisine options.TikTok

The area around Venice Beach and the pier has several other restaurants and cafes, offering a range of dining experiences from casual to more upscale.

Generally, you can bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages to the pier and beach areas. However, it's always good practice to clean up after yourself and dispose of trash properly.

Sharky's on the Pier is considered a mid-range to slightly upscale dining option, reflecting its prime location and quality of food. Prices are comparable to other waterfront restaurants in the area.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Venice Fishing Pier is a fantastic family-friendly destination. The fact that it's free to enter and fish without a license makes it an affordable outing.TikTokInstagram+1 Kids will love the excitement of trying to catch their first fish, and there are often rental options available for gear.Reddit

Beyond fishing, the pier offers a safe space for children to explore and enjoy the ocean breeze. The adjacent Brohard Beach is perfect for building sandcastles and splashing in the shallow waters. Sharky's on the Pier provides a convenient spot for a family meal with a view, though it can be a bit pricier.TikTok Remember to bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water for a comfortable family day out.

🎣 Anglers on a Budget

For budget-conscious anglers, the Venice Fishing Pier is a dream come true. Entry is free, and crucially, no fishing license is required to cast a line from the pier.TikTokInstagram+1 This significantly cuts down on pre-trip costs. You can bring your own gear or rent it affordably on-site, along with bait and tackle from the bait shack.Reddit

While Sharky's on the Pier offers dining, packing your own snacks and drinks can further save money. The real draw here is the accessible fishing experience and the chance to catch a variety of species without breaking the bank. It's a perfect spot for a cost-effective day of fishing and enjoying the Florida coast.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Photographers will find endless inspiration at the Venice Fishing Pier. The pier itself is a picturesque subject, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.TikTokInstagram+1 The expansive views of the Gulf of Mexico provide a dramatic backdrop for any shot.

Beyond landscapes, keep your camera ready for wildlife. Dolphins are often seen playing in the surf, and the pier offers a unique vantage point for capturing them. The pier's structure also lends itself to creative compositions, from long exposures of the waves to detailed shots of the weathered wood. Don't forget to capture the vibrant atmosphere of the pier, from anglers in action to families enjoying the beach.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Brief History of the Venice Fishing Pier

The Venice Fishing Pier has a history dating back to 1966, serving as a beloved local spot for anglers and beachgoers. Unfortunately, it was destroyed by a storm in 1981, a testament to the powerful forces of nature on the Gulf Coast.TikTok

Fortunately, the pier was rebuilt in 1984, continuing its legacy as a key landmark in Venice, Florida. It has since undergone further repairs, including recent work after hurricane damage, demonstrating its resilience and importance to the community.Instagram The pier's enduring presence highlights its significance as a recreational hub and a symbol of Venice's connection to the sea.

Fishing the Venice Fishing Pier: What to Expect

The Venice Fishing Pier is a prime location for anglers, offering a unique opportunity to fish in the Gulf of Mexico without needing a state fishing license.TikTokInstagram+1 This accessibility makes it a popular spot for both seasoned fishermen and beginners. You can expect to catch a variety of popular Gulf species, including snook, tarpon, redfish, mackerel, and even sharks.TikTok+1

Visitors often use techniques like soaking bait for larger game fish or casting lures such as bucktails and swimbaits.Reddit Rod and reel rentals are typically available, along with bait and tackle from the pier's bait shack.Reddit The pier's structure extends 700 feet into the water, providing ample space and diverse fishing spots. Remember to check local fishing reports or ask fellow anglers for the latest tips on what's biting.

Capturing the Magic: Photography at Venice Fishing Pier

The Venice Fishing Pier is a haven for photographers, offering a stunning backdrop for a variety of shots. The most iconic subject is undoubtedly the sunset. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky often explodes with vibrant colors, casting a warm glow over the pier and the Gulf.TikTokInstagram+1 Early mornings also provide beautiful light for capturing the serene start to the day.TikTok

Beyond sunsets, the pier itself is a photogenic structure, stretching out into the vast expanse of the Gulf. Capture wide-angle shots of the pier against the ocean, or focus on the details of the weathered wood and railings. Keep an eye out for marine life; dolphins are frequently spotted playing in the waves, and the occasional shark sighting can make for dramatic photos.TikTokInstagram+1 The surrounding beach also offers opportunities for capturing coastal landscapes and candid moments.

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