
Deerfield Beach International Fishing Pier
Closed For Rebuilding For At Least 14 Months
$140,040.00 is how much the city is saving by closing down the pier so the construction crews can work faster. In total $4,677,875 is being spent on updating and fixing the Deerfield Pier. This rebuild is expected to last till mid summer of 2025.
Close to $5 million will allow for demolition of existing pavilion structure, two new 20 ft wide by 20 ft long Ipe pavilion structures, All electrical and lighting for western pavilion, Six new custom fish cleaning stations and waterline hookup, 15 new park benches, Replacement of existing fence and gates, and an illuminated welcome sign at pier.
Underwater Live Camera is still operational. Be sure to check it out
Historical Context
Deerfield Beach International Fishing Pier, a notable landmark on the east coast of Florida, has a rich and multifaceted history that spans several decades. Its story begins in the early 1950s, a period marked by post-World War II economic expansion and a growing interest in leisure activities among Americans. Deerfield Beach, like many coastal communities, sought to capitalize on its natural assets to attract both tourists and new residents.
Early Development and Construction
The original pier was constructed in 1952, during a time when the development of recreational facilities was seen as a vital part of community planning. The pier was built to provide both a recreational space for fishing and a scenic vantage point for enjoying the Atlantic Ocean. Early records indicate that the construction was a community-driven effort, with local businesses and residents contributing to its funding and labor. The design of the pier was relatively simple, reflecting the engineering capabilities and aesthetic preferences of the era.
Growth and Popularity in the 1960s and 1970s
Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, the Deerfield Beach Fishing Pier gained popularity as a prime destination for anglers and tourists. The post-war economic boom had led to increased disposable income and leisure time for many Americans, which in turn fueled a surge in recreational fishing. The pier became a hub of activity, drawing visitors not only from Florida but from other parts of the United States as well. This period also saw the development of surrounding infrastructure, including bait shops, restaurants, and accommodations, further boosting the local economy.
The 1980s: Challenges and Renovations
The 1980s brought a new set of challenges for the Deerfield Beach Fishing Pier. Environmental factors, including hurricanes and coastal erosion, began to take a toll on the structure. Notably, Hurricane David in 1979 and Hurricane Andrew in 1992 caused significant damage, highlighting the need for substantial renovations. These natural events underscored the vulnerability of coastal infrastructure and prompted local authorities to invest in more resilient construction methods.
In response, a series of renovations were undertaken throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s. These efforts focused on strengthening the pier’s structural integrity and improving its amenities. Reinforced concrete pilings replaced the older wooden ones, providing greater durability against the harsh marine environment. Additionally, upgrades were made to the railings, decking, and lighting systems to enhance safety and usability.
Major Reconstruction in the 2000s
The turn of the millennium marked a significant milestone for the Deerfield Beach Fishing Pier with a comprehensive reconstruction project completed in 2009. This initiative was driven by a combination of factors, including ongoing wear and tear, changing building codes, and a desire to modernize the facility. The project was part of a broader effort to revitalize Deerfield Beach’s waterfront, making it more attractive to visitors and residents alike.
The 2009 reconstruction was ambitious in scope. The pier was entirely rebuilt using modern engineering techniques designed to withstand the rigors of the coastal environment, including hurricanes and saltwater corrosion. The new design incorporated advanced materials such as weather-resistant concrete and stainless steel, which promised to extend the pier’s lifespan significantly. Moreover, the reconstruction included the addition of state-of-the-art amenities such as updated cleaning stations, better lighting, and improved accessibility features, ensuring that the pier could cater to a diverse range of visitors.
Present Day and Ongoing Significance
Today, the Deerfield Beach International Fishing Pier stands as a testament to both the historical evolution and the enduring appeal of coastal recreational facilities. It continues to draw thousands of visitors each year, serving as a beloved local landmark and a key attraction for tourists. The pier’s historical significance is not only in its physical structure but also in its role as a community gathering place and a contributor to the local economy.
The pier also serves as an educational resource, with informational plaques and guided tours available to educate the public about its history and the local marine environment. These efforts help to foster a deeper appreciation of the coastal ecosystem and the importance of preserving such landmarks for future generations.
Closed For Rebuilding For At Least 14 Months
$140,040.00 is how much the city is saving by closing down the pier so the construction crews can work faster. In total $4,677,875 is being spent on updating and fixing the Deerfield Pier after Hurricane Nicole caused extensive damage. This rebuild is expected to last till mid summer of 2025.
Close to $5 million will allow for demolition of existing pavilion structure, two new 20 ft wide by 20 ft long Ipe pavilion structures, All electrical and lighting for western pavilion, Six new custom fish cleaning stations and waterline hookup, 15 new park benches, Replacement of existing fence and gates, and an illuminated welcome sign at pier.
Fish Species and Fishing Techniques
- Spanish Mackerel:
- Techniques: Light tackle is effective, with a preference for using spoons, jigs, or live baitfish like pilchards. Fast retrieval techniques work well to entice these swift predators.
- Best Months: November to April
- King Mackerel:
- Techniques: Similar to Spanish Mackerel but with heavier tackle. Using live bait like blue runners or large pilchards is particularly effective. Trolling or drifting with live bait also yields good results.
- Best Months: April to October
- Snook:
- Techniques: Best caught at night using live bait such as pinfish or mullet. Artificial lures like jigs or swimbaits can also be effective, especially near the pier pilings.
- Best Months: March to November
- Tarpon:
- Techniques: Known for their acrobatics, tarpon are typically targeted with live bait like mullet or crabs. Heavy tackle is recommended due to their size and strength. Fly fishing for tarpon is also popular.
- Best Months: May to September
- Pompano:
- Techniques: Sand fleas, shrimp, or clams are excellent baits for pompano. Using a double-drop rig and casting near the surf zone often yields good results.
- Best Months: November to March
- Bluefish:
- Techniques: Fast-moving lures such as spoons or plugs are ideal for bluefish. These aggressive feeders can also be caught using cut bait like mullet or menhaden.
- Best Months: October to April
- Sheepshead:
- Techniques: Targeting sheepshead near the pilings with fiddler crabs, shrimp, or barnacles is effective. Light tackle and patience are key to hooking these finicky feeders.
- Best Months: January to April
- Flounder:
- Techniques: Bottom fishing with live bait like mullet or artificial lures such as soft plastics can attract flounder. Slowly dragging the bait along the bottom helps mimic natural prey.
- Best Months: October to March
Fishing Calendar
Month | Spanish Mackerel | King Mackerel | Snook | Tarpon | Pompano | Bluefish | Sheepshead | Flounder |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
January | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ||
February | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ||
March | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | |||
April | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ||||
May | ✔ | ✔ | ||||||
June | ✔ | ✔ | ||||||
July | ✔ | ✔ | ||||||
August | ✔ | ✔ | ||||||
September | ✔ | ✔ | ||||||
October | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | |||||
November | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ||||
December | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Amenities
- Bait & Tackle Shop: Offers a variety of bait, tackle, and fishing supplies. Rentals are available for fishing gear, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced anglers.
- Restrooms: Conveniently located near the entrance of the pier, ensuring comfort for all visitors.
- Cleaning Stations: Equipped with running water, making it easy for anglers to clean their catch before heading home.
- Concessions: Snacks, drinks, and basic refreshments are available for purchase, ensuring that visitors can stay hydrated and energized during their fishing trip.
- Seating Areas: Benches and shaded areas are strategically placed along the pier for rest and relaxation.
Address
200 NE 21st Ave, Deerfield Beach, FL 33441, USA
Website
http://www.deerfield-beach.com/1420/International-Fishing-Pier
Operating Hours
Open from 6 AM to 12 AM (midnight), Monday – Thursday
Open from 6 AM on Friday to 12 AM (midnight) on Monday
Admission & Pricing
Adult Fishing – $4
Buy 3 Days Get 4th FREE
Children Under 6 – Free
Sightseeing – $1
Rod Rentals
$15 Per Rod With $25 Deposit
Bait Option
Frozen Shrimp – $5.30/pound
Frozen Squid – $5.30/pound
Frozen Mullet – $5.30/pound
Working On Live Bait
Amenities
Bait Shack
Well Lighted Benches
Cleaning and gutting allowed, but no filleting
2 Sinks
Seating
Handicap Accessible
Bathrooms Available
Bait Shop available for gear
Parking Available but lot in front of deerfield cafe for fisherman. Bring license plate number to pier desk. $3 for 6 hours
1 Covered Pavillion
No castnets allow
No alcohol
No shark fishing
Fish Caught
Kingsfish
Mackerel
Snapper
Jacks
Snook
Bluefish
Pompano
Flounder
Permit
Trout
Spanish Mackerel
Fishing Reports
Tackle and Gear
Buy / Sell / Trade
Tips and Techniques
State Regulations
Events / Tournaments
Share Your Fish Pics

Share Your Pier Pics


