Visit St. Lucie Florida
Fort Pierce, FL
An Angler's Paradise in St. Lucie
Nestled in St. Lucie, Fort Pierce stands as a fishing mecca, renowned globally for its thrilling inshore and offshore fishing experiences. This destination caters to all - from novices to seasoned anglers, offering a rich variety of fish species and fishing techniques.
Fishing here isn't just a pastime; it's woven into the fabric of the area's history. Dating back over a century, Fort Pierce initially thrived on commercial and recreational fishing, with the early 1900s seeing it as a bustling hub for fishing industries. The downtown area was once lined with fish houses and packing plants, bustling with the day's catch of mackerel, mullet, and kingfish, ready to be shipped via the East Coast railway.
Today, Fort Pierce has transformed into a premier destination for recreational fishing. Anglers flock here, enticed by the promise of record-breaking catches, such as the world's heaviest spotted sea trout at 17.7lbs, caught in the Indian River Lagoon. Offshore, the deep-blue Atlantic offers treasures like grouper, snapper, mahimahi, and sailfish. The area is also a hotspot for kingfish, proudly hosting the national championship tournament by the Southern Kingfish Association.
The Fort Pierce City Marina offers pole rentals, making it easy for beginners to try their hand at fishing. The jetties at Fort Pierce Inlet, and the beaches, are popular spots for catching tarpon, blacktip sharks, snook, and pompano. Inshore, the biologically rich Indian River Lagoon teems with a variety of fish including trout, snapper, black drum, and flounder.
Fort Pierce is more than just a fishing locale; it's a fully equipped angler's haven. With multiple marinas, free public boat ramps, bait and tackle shops, cleaning stations, charter boats, and expert fishing guides, every fishing trip is made convenient and memorable. The local hotels add to the charm, offering fishing piers or boat slips for an overnight stay. This blend of rich history, diverse marine life, and top-notch amenities makes Fort Pierce a cherished destination for anglers worldwide.
