Where are the best fishing piers?

Anglers enjoy a relaxing day of fishing from a public pier at the Nautical Mile in Freeport, one of many waterfront locations where residents and visitors can cast a line without needing a boat. Long Island's public fishing piers offer convenient access to productive saltwater fishing throughout much of the year. File photo: Arnett Murry, licensed. — Anglers enjoy a relaxing day of fishing from a public pier at the Nautical Mile in Freeport, one of many waterfront locations where residents and visitors can cast a line without needing a boat. Long Island’s public fishing piers offer convenient access to productive saltwater fishing throughout much of the year. File photo: Arnett Murry, licensed.

Long Island offers numerous public fishing piers, providing anglers with convenient access to saltwater fishing without needing a boat. From the North Shore to the South Shore and the East End, fishing piers attract beginners, families, and experienced anglers throughout the year.

In Short

Some of Long Island’s best-known fishing piers include Captree State Park, Cedar Beach, Port Jefferson, Greenport, and the Sunken Meadow State Park fishing pier. These locations provide opportunities to catch striped bass, fluke, porgy, bluefish, blackfish, and many other seasonal species.

Where Are the Best Fishing Piers?

Fishing piers are located throughout Nassau County and Suffolk County, giving anglers access to the Long Island Sound, Great South Bay, Great Peconic Bay, and the Atlantic Ocean. Many piers are free or require only a parking fee, making them popular destinations for recreational fishing.

Some fishing piers are located within state parks, while others are found in town parks, marinas, waterfront villages, and public parks. Depending on the season, anglers commonly target striped bass, fluke, porgy, black sea bass, bluefish, blackfish (tautog), weakfish, and other saltwater species.

Fishing conditions vary throughout the year based on tides, water temperature, migration patterns, and local regulations. Before heading out, anglers should verify access hours, parking rules, and any required fishing registrations or licenses.

Quick Facts

Fishing Pier Information	General Information
Popular Locations	Captree State Park, Sunken Meadow State Park, Port Jefferson, Greenport, and Cedar Beach.
Common Species	Striped bass, fluke, porgy, bluefish, black sea bass, blackfish, and other seasonal species.
Best Seasons	Spring through fall generally offers the most productive fishing, although some species are available year-round.
Facilities	Many piers offer parking, restrooms, nearby bait shops, boat launches, or picnic areas.
Fishing Requirements	Saltwater anglers should comply with New York’s recreational marine fishing registration requirements and current fishing regulations.

Whether you’re introducing a child to fishing or chasing your next trophy catch, Long Island’s fishing piers provide convenient public access to some of New York’s best saltwater fishing. For more fishing tips, regulations, charter boats, and popular fishing destinations, visit our Long Island Fishing guide.