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FAIRHOPE MUNICIPAL PIER

The Fairhope Municipal Pier, located at the end of Fairhope Avenue in Alabama, is not just a pier but a historic landmark and a community hub. Initially established in 1895, the pier has undergone several transformations to become the beloved site it is today.Historical BackgroundOriginally constructed as a wooden pier in 1895, the Fairhope Municipal Pier served as a commercial dock for bay boats. This early version of the pier was pivotal in supporting the local economy and providing a point of connection between Fairhope and other coastal areas. However, due to its exposure and construction material, it suffered from repeated storm damage. To address these vulnerabilities, the pier was reconstructed in concrete in 1968, enhancing its durability and ensuring its continued use for the community.Storm Damages and RebuildingThe pier’s resilience was tested by significant weather events over the years, including being severely damaged by Hurricane Frederic in 1979 and Hurricane Ivan in 2004. Each time, the pier was reconstructed, with the most notable reconstruction occurring after Hurricane Katrina in 2005. These efforts not only restored the pier but also modernized it, ensuring it remained a safe and welcoming place for visitors and anglers.Fishing Calendar for Fairhope Municipal PierSpeckled Trout (Spotted Seatrout)Peak Months: Fall through early spring (October to April) are the best times to catch speckled trout, as cooler water temperatures bring them into shallower waters.Redfish (Red Drum)Peak Months: Late summer through fall (August to November) is ideal for redfish, especially as they feed aggressively in preparation for winter.FlounderPeak Months: Flounder are most commonly caught during their fall migration to the Gulf, which peaks around October and November.SheepsheadPeak Months: Late winter through early spring (February to April) is the best time for sheepshead, as this is when they spawn around pier pilings and rocky structures.Spanish MackerelPeak Months: Spring and early summer (April to June) see higher numbers of Spanish mackerel as they follow baitfish schools near the coast.Fishing Techniques and Tips for Each SeasonSpeckled Trout: Use live shrimp under popping corks or soft plastic lures bounced along the bottom. Early morning and late afternoon are typically the best times to fish for them.Redfish: Fishing with live bait such as mullet or using gold spoons and soft plastics can be effective. Focus on areas with oyster beds or near marsh edges.Flounder: Dragging a live finger mullet or using a jig tipped with shrimp along the sandy bottom can yield good results. Fishing near the transitions between different bottom types can be particularly productive.Sheepshead: Attach fiddler crabs, oysters, or barnacles to a small hook and fish directly next to pier pilings or other structures. Patience and a gentle touch are needed as sheepshead are notorious for their light bites.Spanish Mackerel: Fast retrieval of shiny spoons or small feathered jigs works best. Early mornings when the water is cooler are ideal times to target Spanish mackerel.Recreational Amenities and RestorationIn addition to fishing, the pier offers other recreational amenities such as walking paths, benches, and areas for picnics, making it a family-friendly destination. The recent repairs and ongoing maintenance efforts ensure that the pier remains a safe and attractive spot for both locals and tourists.ConclusionThe Fairhope Municipal Pier is more than just a place to fish; it’s a vital part of the community that provides a space for recreation, relaxation, and social gatherings. With its rich history and the continuous care it receives, the pier remains one of Fairhope’s most cherished landmarks, promising continued enjoyment and engagement for future generations.

Address

1 N Beach Rd, Fairhope, AL 36532, USA

Website

https://alabama.travel/places-to-go/fairhope-municipal-pier

Operating Hours

Open daily 24Hours

Admission & Pricing

Free

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Fish Caught

Red drum, Black drum, Gafftopsail sea catfish, Hardhead Sea catfish, Sand weakfish, Blacktip Shark, Atlanic croaker, Spotted Seatrout.

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1 N Beach Rd, Fairhope, AL 36532, USA

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