What is the Best Rod Length for Pier Fishing in Clearwater?
Several factors determine the best pier fishing equipment
Pier 60, which is right on the beach, may be the best fishing pier not only in the Clearwater area but also in all of Florida. It is specifically designed for fishing and includes many fine dining, shopping, and entertainment options, as well as special events throughout the year.
Other good piers in the area include our personal favorite Dunedin Causeway Fishing Pier, the Redington Long Pier, which is even longer than Pier 60, and the Skyway Fishing Pier State Park in St. Petersburg, where tarpon, snook, and grouper abound.
For anglers, pier fishing basically combines shore and deep-sea fishing. So, you need the right equipment, the right advice, and the right plan. We provide all three at Angler 360. Our mission is to make your next fishing trip the most fun and successful one ever.
Primary Considerations
The wind, both its velocity and direction, may have the most effect on pier casting. When there is little wind, light tackle is usually an option. But when wind speeds hit more than about 20mph, consider using several ounces of weight to cast a reasonable distance.
Also consider the current. It dictates how much lead is needed to hold your bait on the bottom. Again, the weight of your sinker generally dictates the type and size of the tackle you need, with a heavier sinker requiring a heavier tackle.
The type of pier matters as well. Is it a large oceanfront pier, like the ones on the above list, or a smaller pier on a bay or estuary? The fishing surfaces on oceanfront piers are typically 20 feet or more from the water, while those on piers in bays are closer to the water, in some cases only a few feet from the water.
Rod and Reel Combinations for Pier Fishers in Clearwater
Occasional pier anglers can probably get by with one rod and reel outfit. But serious pier anglers must usually have three or four of the following rigs, depending upon their geographic location in the state.
- Light Tackle Spinning Reel: A seven to nine-foot rod, together with a light reel, is usually sufficient for almost all small species at piers. This combo also handles most medium-sized fish. Do not use these outfits for larger species. Reel requirements include a line capacity of 200 yards of 6-8 pound test line. The rod must be able to handle 1/2 to 2-ounce sinkers.
- Medium Spinning Reel: This pier fishing rod should also be between seven and nine feet long. The recommended line capacity is 250 yards for a 12-20-pound test line. The rod should be able to handle 3–4-ounce sinkers.
- Heavy Tackle Baitcasting Reel: A nine-foot rod capable of handling 4+ ounces of lead is usually best, although longer rods are sometimes used by those fishing for larger fish like sharks, rays, and large Sportfish. The reel should be capable of holding a minimum of 250 yards of 20–40-pound test line.
If you want to become a serious and successful angler, you should also learn how to properly use and take care of your tackle. One of the best ways is to find a knowledgeable tackle store, especially one that repairs rods and reels, and then become a regular. The tips and knowledge you will pick up from your visits will more than make up for any additional cost over using the big box chains.
Contact Angler 360 for any questions you have.