Ready for a great day of fishing?! You don’t need to own a boat, or even have any of the gear... Oceanic Fishing Pier in Ocean City, Maryland has everything you need, and a great fishery too, making any day spent here worth the trip! Not to be confused with Ocean City, New Jersey - Ocean City, Maryland also has a lot to offer anglers looking to reel in a nice catch or two. Visitors to Ocean City, Maryland will have the opportunity to fish from one of the best piers in the country: Oceanic Fishing Pier. It’s a great fishing experience, no license required, and the people are super friendly. Before you head out, here’s everything you need to know for your visit.
Oceanic Fishing Pier is open 24/7 from Memorial Day until Labor Day, and it’s a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. Anglers can fish “Under the Lights” for some night fishing, or drop your line anytime during the day. If you’re in town anytime from April to October, you’re likely to find the pier open most of the day, depending on the weather. It’s the only public pier in Ocean City, located on the southern tip of the city and juts into the Ocean City Inlet where you’ll be able to catch a variety of species. You won’t need a license to fish, but access to the pier does cost anywhere from $8-$35 depending on how many days you’re planning on fishing. There’s a convenience store at the beginning of the pier that provides rentals of rods, reels and nets, or purchases of tackle and bait, if needed. You can also stock up on water and snacks for the day. If you have any questions, the staff is very helpful in getting you what you need, or pointing you in the right direction.
Atlantic Ocean species find their way to the Ocean City Pass and the pier.
When the pier opens in the Spring you’re sure to see some Stripers and Bluefish. You’ll have a greater chance of reeling in some keepers using fresh mullet, gotcha plugs and spec rigs. Shad are also biting on spec rigs, although you’ll see more action “under the lights”. Tautogs are also seen at the beginning of the season. By mid-summer there’s a nice variety of fish, including Black Drum and Triggerfish; you just never know what you’ll find at the end of your line. And by the time the temperature drops again there’s a healthy fishery of flounders, croakers, and spot.
Ocean City, Maryland has tons to offer for your family vacation. The boardwalk is a classic three-mile trek of amusement, restaurants, and lodging. Whether you’re in town for a few days or are a lifelong resident, there’s no limit to your adventures. And of course you’ll want to visit Oceanic Fishing Pier. If you’re visiting Washington D.C., Baltimore, or Philadelphia, PA, the pier is about a three hour drive. It’s worth the drive to explore the city and enjoy some great fishing!