Wildlife

Fishing the Cocoa Beach Pier — What You Need to Know

The Cocoa Beach Pier is one of the most productive public fishing piers in Florida. Species, techniques, licenses and the local knowledge most tourists miss.

Sharks feed at the Pier every morning. You can watch them from above the water with your coffee.

The Pier Itself

The Cocoa Beach Pier extends 800 feet into the Atlantic. From the shore end it is a tourist attraction with restaurants and bars. From the tip it is a serious fishing structure. The pilings create an artificial reef that concentrates baitfish, which concentrates predators. Cobia, flounder, Spanish mackerel, bluefish, king mackerel, and blacktip sharks are regularly caught from the Pier. The shark fishing here is genuinely notable — large blacktips and spinners are common in spring and fall.

LOCAL TIP
The best fishing is from 6am-9am before the tourist traffic builds. Locals arrive at dawn, set up multiple rods, and work the entire length of the Pier.

Licenses and Access

Florida requires a fishing license for anyone 16 and over. Pier fishing is available without a license from licensed piers — check whether the Cocoa Beach Pier offers a pier license, which covers all anglers fishing from it. Bring your own tackle or rent from the Pier tackle shop. The shop also sells bait, ice and snacks.

LOCAL TIP
Bring cut mullet or fresh squid for bottom fishing. Spanish mackerel and cobia respond to live pilchards or jigs. The bait shop has whatever is working that week.
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Common Questions

Do I need a fishing license to fish from the Cocoa Beach Pier?
Check with the Pier directly for current licensing policy. Many paid fishing piers include a fishing license in the access fee.
What kind of sharks are at Cocoa Beach?
Blacktip, spinner, and bull sharks are the most commonly encountered species near Cocoa Beach. Nurse sharks are seen resting on the bottom near the Pier. All are typically released after catching.
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