CLOSED DUE TO STORM DAMAGE – 5 /1/2024 – No updates till at least September on when the city will be able to repair the pier.“The cross beams and the pilings that go down into the sand are called bents. The very last bent is bent number 61 and that looks like the piers were sheared off underwater and the piers and the bent are missing now on the very last bent,” explained Shaun Cooper, San Luis Obispo County Parks Assistant Director.Around three to four pilings are washed up along the shore.An engineer assessed the pier Wednesday morning to determine whether it’s safe for the public to walk on the pier.“He’s recommending that we can open the pier back up to bent 57, which is not quite the end of the pier, but leave the very end of the pier closed off,” Cooper said.

The Cayucos Fishing Pier, located in the small coastal town of Cayucos, California, offers a delightful mix of rich history, scenic views, and fruitful fishing opportunities. This pier has become a cornerstone of the community and a favorite spot for both local and visiting anglers, providing access to the diverse marine life of the Central California coast.

Historical and Practical Information

Originally built in 1872, the Cayucos Fishing Pier was a critical component of the town’s economic development, serving as a key landing spot for goods and passengers along the Central Coast. Over the years, the pier has witnessed numerous reconstructions and renovations, particularly after enduring damage from storms and the natural wear and tear from the Pacific Ocean.

The most recent major renovation occurred from 2013 to 2015, when the community rallied to preserve this historical landmark. During this period, the pier was extensively refurbished to ensure safety and enhance its durability against the harsh marine environment, all while maintaining its historical integrity. Today, the pier extends 953 feet into Estero Bay, offering spectacular views and access to a rich variety of marine species.

The structure itself features a traditional wooden deck that adds to its rustic charm, complemented by modern safety features such as railings and lighting for evening fishing. The pier is fully accessible to the public without any fees, and it is equipped with benches, fish cleaning stations, and informative plaques detailing its history and the local wildlife.

Fish Types and Techniques

The waters around Cayucos Pier teem with a variety of fish species, influenced by the cold currents of the Pacific. Here’s a guide to the species commonly caught from the pier and the best techniques to use:

1. Surfperch – Including barred and redtail surfperch, these are commonly caught year-round using small pieces of shrimp, sand crabs, or synthetic baits.
2. Rockfish – Found around the pilings and rocky areas, using squid or cut bait on a high/low rig can be effective.
3. Lingcod – Occasionally caught from the pier, especially during colder months. Jigs tipped with squid or large swimbaits work well.
4. Halibut – These flatfish are targeted with live bait such as anchovies or sardines, or with artificial lures mimicking small fish.
5. Mackerel – Pacific mackerel can be caught using small jigs or pieces of mackerel as bait, often in the early morning or late evening.
6. Jacksmelt – These are caught using small hooks baited with pieces of worm or small shrimp, fished near the surface.
7. Crabs – While not a fish, Dungeness and rock crabs can be caught using crab nets baited with fish scraps, particularly during the winter months.

Fishing Calendar and Techniques

January to March

• Surfperch: Sand crabs or synthetic baits cast into the surf.
• Crabs: Baited crab nets dropped near the pier structure.

April to June

• Rockfish: Squid or cut bait on high/low rigs near the pilings.
• Halibut: Live bait or artificial lures mimicking small fish.

July to September

• Mackerel: Small jigs or pieces of bait fished in the early morning or late evening.
• Lingcod: Jigs tipped with squid or large swimbaits.

October to December

• Jacksmelt: Small hooks baited with worm pieces or small shrimp.
• Halibut: Continue with live bait or lures as in spring.

Amenities and Accessibility

The pier is equipped with several amenities that enhance the fishing and visitor experience. There are adequate fish cleaning stations, public restrooms at the base of the pier, and a small bait and tackle shop that also rents out fishing gear. The entire pier is accessible to individuals with disabilities, featuring smooth pathways and safety railings.

For those looking to take a break from fishing, the town of Cayucos offers a variety of charming shops, restaurants, and beaches, all within walking distance of the pier. This makes it easy for families and groups with diverse interests to enjoy their time both on and off the pier.

The Cayucos Fishing Pier, with its historical charm and bountiful fishing opportunities, stands as a testament to the community’s commitment to preserving its maritime heritage while continuing to provide a welcoming and productive environment for anglers of all levels.