Located along the southwest coast of the Sunshine State, Naples is a favorite vacation destination for travelers of all ages. Popular recreation hobbies include shopping, golfing, swimming, . Shopping enthusiasts know that Naples is a high-end retailer hot spot. Just head to 5th Avenue South and discover a beautiful outdoor shopping haven with boutiques and restaurants. Drive less than a mile away to 3rd Street South for more unique shops. Even if you don’t spend a dime, strolling the shops and taking in the vibe is well worth it. Outdoor enthusiasts can make Naples their starting point for adventuring to nearby Everglades and Ten Thousand Islands. The Everglades are a unique habitat, unlike anywhere else in the world. It’s made up of marshes, swamps, and mangrove islands that provide habitats to hundreds of birds, fish, reptiles, and animals. Similarly, Ten Thousand Islands is a chain of mangrove islands off the coast of Florida that provide homes for hundreds of species. Exploring and discovering these natural wonders is truly a sight to behold. Naples is located on the coast of Florida, with access to the Gulf. The Gulf of Mexico provides fantastic fishing opportunities, and welcomes anglers of all skill levels. If you don’t have a vessel, access this bountiful body of water by way of the Naples Fishing Pier.
Drive down 12th Avenue South to make your way to the pier. It’s free to access the pier (whether you’re fishing or just taking in the view) but you may need to pay for parking depending on availability. There is a lot located at the corner of 12th Avenue South and Gulf Shore Blvd, just a short block away. The pier reaches 1,000 feet into the Gulf, and gives anglers access to some great inshore species. Bring your light tackle gear, net, chair and cooler. From the pier you can catch Spanish mackerel, snook, spotted seatrout, redfish, pompano, grouper, snapper, and more. While hooked up on any of the aforementioned species, be sure to keep your rod tip up and reel your prize in as quickly as possible. If you allow your catch too much slack in the line, it’s likely to dart beneath the pier. Your line will rub against the rough surface of the barnacle covered pylons, causing your line to break off and your prize to swim away. Visitors have access 24-hours a day, whether you’re fishing or strolling the pier. Anglers don’t need a fishing license when fishing from the pier, but if you are surf fishing from the beach you will need one. There is also a small concession stand that offers food, drinks, and fishing supplies. Other amenities include restrooms, a covered eating area, and outdoor showers. The pier was originally built in 1888 and has been rebuilt a few times after hurricane destruction. It was originally built for shipping needs, but was soon recognized as a landmark and great place to hold social functions. It’s one of the city’s prized locations and continues to hold great value for the citizens of Naples. Non-anglers enjoy the picturesque sunsets over the Gulf from the pier. Or bring your binoculars to view the wildlife. Birds, dolphins, and stingrays are often spotted from the pier. It’s a great place to visit, spend some time, and enjoy the beautiful city of Naples.
Your Naples vacation isn’t complete until you’ve visited the pier. Whether it’s to fish or view the incredible sunsets, it’s worth the visit. Whatever time of year you decide to visit make sure to schedule a trip, maybe even grab some fishing gear, and enjoy the day with your family. If you would rather fish Naples from a boat, there are several professional fishing charters in the area that can put you on the fish. , and reserve your trip with as low as a 10% deposit. We can have you out on the water, enjoying all that Naples has to offer in no time at all. Whether from the pier or the water, fishing in Naples is always a great way to spend your day.