Historical and Practical Information

Green Island Fishing Pier, located on the north side of the third Wantagh bridge heading southbound of the Wantagh State Parkway (Just look at the map on the directions tab lol)  in Long Island, New York.  Access is from the far right lane of the toll booth just south of the Second Wantagh Bridge but you need a Permit from the Jones Beach Parks Office.  This spot is nestled in the heart of the suburban coastal landscape marshland. This pier, while modest in size, boasts a rich history intertwined with the development of Long Island’s maritime and recreational culture. Primarily used by local anglers and community members, the pier serves as a tranquil escape for those looking to enjoy the serene marine environment.

Originally built in the early 20th century, Green Island Fishing Pier was established to provide access to the abundant fishing grounds that Long Island is known for. Over the decades, the pier has seen several renovations to improve its structure and amenities, ensuring safety and enhancing the fishing experience for visitors. The most recent refurbishment, completed in the late 2010s, upgraded the pier with modern safety features and better accessibility, making it a friendly spot for families and individuals of all abilities.

Fish Types and Techniques

The waters around Green Island are teeming with a variety of fish species, making it a popular destination for both casual and serious anglers:

• Striped Bass – Often targeted during their migration periods in spring and fall. Live bait such as eels or bunker, and lures like spoons or swimbaits are effective.
• Fluke (Summer Flounder) – Best caught in the summer months using squid or minnows on a fluke rig.
• Tog – Use fiddler crabs next to the pillings
• Bluefish – Known for their aggressive strikes, available from late spring through fall. Topwater lures and cut bait work well.
• Black Sea Bass – Caught during the warmer months using clams or jigs near the rocky bottom.
• Porgy (Scup) – Available throughout the warmer months, small pieces of worm or squid are effective when fished on the bottom.

Fishing Calendar and Techniques

January to March

• Winter is quieter, with limited activity, mainly small groundfish.

April to June

• Striped Bass: Live eels or bunker.
• Bluefish: Start to appear, aggressive on lures.

July to September

• Fluke: Using squid or minnows on fluke rigs.
• Black Sea Bass: Clams or jigs near structures.

October to December

• Striped Bass: Second migration, similar tactics as spring.
• Porgy: Before they move to deeper waters.

Amenities and Accessibility

Green Island Fishing Pier offers basic amenities that include benches, a small shelter for shade, and informational signs about local wildlife and fishing regulations. The pier is ADA-compliant, featuring wide, well-maintained pathways and railings. Parking is available nearby but only with a Park Permit making it easily accessible for those driving from other parts of Long Island or New York City.

With its combination of rich marine life, historical significance, and community-focused amenities, Green Island Fishing Pier remains a cherished spot on Long Island, inviting anglers and nature lovers to enjoy a peaceful day by the water.