Best Fishing Piers in Fort Walton Beach, FL: Expert Tips and Insights

Have you heard of Fort Walton Beach? It is a fantastic destination in Florida that draws many tourists. You may be wondering why. Stick with us, and you'll find out!

Fishing is one of the great activities available here. Pier fishing is especially popular among anglers, as it provides the chance to catch a variety of fish species.

In our guide, we discuss Fort Walton Beach piers. There are few, so we will focus on three of the most famous. You will get detailed information about them.

Top 3 Fishing Piers in Fort Walton Beach

Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier, Liza Jackson Park Pier, and Ross Marler Park Pier are the most popular piers here. Both are incredible and will provide you with a great fishing experience. We will analyze them in detail. You will get information about fish species that you can catch there, what bait to use, and much more.

Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier

The Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier, also known as The Island Pier, is the most famous fishing pier on Okaloosa Island. It is a premier fishing destination located at Fort Walton Beach and provides anglers with direct access to the Gulf of Mexico's rich fishing waters. 

• Species to Catch: King Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel, Cobia, Pompano
• Season: Spring, Summer
• Best Fishing Times: Early morning, late afternoon
• Entrance Fee: Yes, daily and seasonal passes are available
• Address: 1030 Miracle Strip Parkway SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548
• Key Benefits: Long pier extending into deep waters, well-maintained facilities
• Recommended Baits: Live shrimp, squid, cut bait, live minnows

The original Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier was built in 1972. The first one extended 962 feet. Hurricane Erin destroyed the original pier in 1995. The current pier opened in 1998. It extends 1,262 feet out into the Gulf of Mexico.

Liza Jackson Park Pier

Liza Jackson Park Pier offers a great fishing experience. It is in the heart of Fort Walton Beach, near a beautiful park, making it perfect for anglers who want to enjoy fishing while surrounded by nature.

• Species to Catch: Redfish, Flounder, Trout, Sheepshead
• Season: Year-round
• Best Fishing Times: Early morning, late evening
• Entrance Fee: Free
• Address: 338 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548
• Key Benefits: Beautiful park setting, great views of the Santa Rosa Sound
• Recommended Baits: Shrimp, live minnows, cut bait, soft plastics

This pier is known for its peaceful atmosphere. It has access to various fishing spots along the Santa Rosa Sound. This pier provides a relaxing environment for catching a variety of species. In addition to fishing, visitors can enjoy picnicking or walking along the shoreline. 

Ross Marler Park Pier

Ross Marler Park Pier is located on the Choctawhatchee Bay in Fort Walton Beach. It is one of the premier fishing destinations in the area. This well-maintained pier offers anglers a peaceful environment and a perfect spot for all anglers. The surrounding natural beauty makes this pier popular for anyone looking for a fishing experience.

• Species to Catch: Redfish, Flounder, Pompano, Sheepshead
• Season: Spring, Fall
• Best Fishing Times: Early morning, late evening
• Entrance Fee: Free
• Address: 1275 Santa Rosa Blvd., Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548
• Key Benefits: Scenic views of Choctawhatchee Bay, ample parking, family-friendly
• Recommended Baits: Live shrimp, squid, sand fleas

This pier is located on the Gulf Coast, where you can enjoy the natural beauty of the Gulf Coast. With its ideal location and convenient amenities, this place has something for everyone. Of course, the diverse fish population is the most significant advantage of this pier. This pier is a must-visit, whether you're hoping to catch a big one or simply soak in the atmosphere.

More About Fort Walton Beach

Fort Walton Beach is a popular city in Okaloosa County on the northwestern coast of Florida. It offers stunning beaches, a warm climate, and a rich history.

Fort Walton Beach is a bustling tourist hub along the Gulf of Mexico, with numerous islands and bays. It covers an area of approximately 8 square miles and has a population of around 22,000. Despite its relatively small size, Fort Walton Beach is a popular destination.

When discussing attractions here, we must mention Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park. This aquarium offers interactive experiences with marine animals, including dolphins, seals, and sea turtles. The Air Force Armament Museum is another landmark. It is the only museum in the world dedicated exclusively to the aviation and armament of the U.S. Air Force. Indian Temple Mound Museum shows local history and archaeological finds from the pre-European settlement era.

Fort Walton Beach enjoys a subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters, making it a year-round destination. In addition to its beaches, the Area offers various recreational activities, including golf courses, bike trails, and parks.

Fishing Regulations and Licenses in Fort Walton Beach

There are some important things that you should check before you go fishing. Of course, it's necessary to check your equipment. But there is another essential that you must do. That is checking the latest fishing rules and regulations. Below, we will describe these rules in detail. 

• Fishing License: All anglers older than 16 must have a valid fishing license in Florida. It's not complicated to get it. You can do that online or at local stores. There are two essential fishing licenses. One is short-term, and it's suitable for tourists. The second one is an annual license. It is usually for residents. 
• Catch Limits: The quantity and size of catches are limited for most fish species, which is necessary to preserve certain species.
• Seasonal Rules: To protect fish during spawning on some species, apply a limited season. 

As we already said, always check regulations with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). This is the best way to stay in touch with the latest information. Penalties are one consequence of not following these rules. 

Final Thoughts

Well, you are ready for a new fishing adventure. Now, you have all the essential information about the most popular piers in Fort Walton Beach. All you need to do is choose the most suitable pier for your preferences.

Do you know of any other less famous piers in Fort Walton Beach? Have you visited any? We are happy to hear about your experience in the comments!

Disclaimer: The images used in this article may not be of specific piers, even though we always strive to provide an accurate shot. Our team has manually checked all data. We strive to keep all information current; some details may occasionally become outdated.