GULF STATE PARK FISHING PIER
Early Development
The Gulf State Park Fishing Pier, located in Gulf Shores, Alabama, has a rich history deeply connected to the development of Gulf State Park itself. The park was established in the 1930s as part of a series of public works projects initiated by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) during the Great Depression. This period saw the construction of various facilities within the park, including cabins and a casino on the beach. The park officially opened in 1939 and quickly became a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
In 1968, the first significant fishing pier was constructed within Gulf State Park. This 825-foot pier was a major attraction for anglers and visitors alike until it was destroyed by Hurricane Frederic in 1979. The pier was subsequently rebuilt but was again destroyed by Hurricane Ivan in 2004, highlighting the vulnerability of coastal structures to powerful storms.
Modern Enhancements and Rebuilding Efforts
Following the destruction caused by Hurricane Ivan, the Gulf State Park Fishing Pier was rebuilt once again and reopened in 2009. This version of the pier was designed to be more resilient, stretching 1,540 feet into the Gulf of Mexico and offering 2,448 feet of fishing space, making it one of the longest piers on the Gulf Coast. The pier featured modern amenities, including areas for disabled anglers, restrooms, a bait shop, and a snack bar, making it a more accommodating destination for all visitors.
Unfortunately, the pier sustained significant damage during Hurricane Sally in 2020, which destroyed a 200-foot section of the structure. Extensive renovation efforts, including the removal and replacement of damaged pilings and lighting systems, were undertaken, costing around $13.6 million. The pier finally reopened in August 2024, with enhancements aimed at improving the overall visitor experience. While some areas, such as the observation deck, are still undergoing improvements to meet accessibility standards, the pier continues to be a beloved spot for fishing and sightseeing along Alabama’s Gulf Coast.
Pier Specifics and Amenities
- Length: 1,540 feet into the Gulf of Mexico, with 2,448 feet of fishing space.
- Lighting: Full-length lighting for evening and nighttime activities.
- Fish Cleaning Stations: Available with running water.
- Benches: Numerous benches along the pier for relaxation.
- Parking: Ample parking available nearby, with fees applicable.
- Restrooms: Public restrooms available on the pier.
- Accessibility: Fully accessible for all visitors, with ongoing enhancements to improve accessibility.
- Additional Amenities: Observation deck (currently under renovation), bait shop, and snack bar.
Fish Species and Fishing Techniques
The waters around the Gulf State Park Fishing Pier are rich with a variety of fish species. Here are some of the most common species and effective techniques for catching them from the pier:
1. Spanish Mackerel
Techniques: Use Gotcha plugs, spoons, or live bait such as shrimp or small fish. Cast far from the pier, particularly in clear water conditions.
Best Months: April to October.
2. King Mackerel
Techniques: Use live bait such as cigar minnows or large spoons. Fish farther out on the pier during the early morning or late afternoon.
Best Months: May to September.
3. Red Drum (Redfish)
Techniques: Use live bait such as shrimp or mullet, or artificial lures like soft plastics. Fish near the pilings and during tidal changes.
Best Months: April to October.
4. Speckled Trout
Techniques: Use live shrimp or artificial lures like soft plastics and topwater plugs. Fish during early morning or late evening near the pier lights.
Best Months: March to November.
5. Flounder
Techniques: Use live bait such as minnows or shrimp, or artificial lures like bucktail jigs. Fish near sandy bottoms and around the pier pilings during tidal changes.
Best Months: April to September.
Fishing Calendar
Month | Spanish Mackerel | King Mackerel | Red Drum | Speckled Trout | Flounder |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
January | Bad | Bad | OK | OK | Bad |
February | Bad | Bad | OK | OK | Bad |
March | OK | OK | Great | Great | OK |
April | Great | Great | Great | Great | Great |
May | Great | Great | Great | Great | Great |
June | Great | Great | Great | Great | OK |
July | Great | Great | Great | Great | OK |
August | Great | Great | Great | Great | OK |
September | Great | Great | Great | Great | OK |
October | Great | Great | Great | Great | Great |
November | OK | OK | Great | Great | OK |
December | Bad | Bad | OK | OK | Bad |
Address
20800 E Beach Blvd, Gulf Shores, AL 36542, USA
Website
https://www.alapark.com/parks/gulf-state-park/fishing-and-education-pier
Operating Hours
Open daily 24Hours
Admission & Pricing
Sightseeing (All Day)
Adult – $2
Veteran – Free
Children under 12 years – Free
Gulf State Park Campground/Lodge Guests – Free
Fishing (All Day)
Adult – $9
Veteran – $6
Campground/Lodge Guest – $6
Children under 12 years – Free
Extended permits
Weekly Fishing Permit – $41
Monthly Fishing Permit – $81
Six Month Fishing Permit – $161
Annual Fishing Permit – $321
All anglers must possess a valid fishing license. Purchase at www.alabamainteractive.org/dcnr_hf_license/welcome.action?GSPpressrelease.
Rod Rentals
4 Hours: $10.00 All Day: $20.00
Bait Option
Amenities
Pier Specifics and Amenities
- Length: 1,540 feet into the Gulf of Mexico, with 2,448 feet of fishing space.
- Lighting: Full-length lighting for evening and nighttime activities.
- Fish Cleaning Stations: Available with running water.
- Benches: Numerous benches along the pier for relaxation.
- Parking: Ample parking available nearby, with fees applicable.
- Restrooms: Public restrooms available on the pier.
- Accessibility: Fully accessible for all visitors, with ongoing enhancements to improve accessibility.
- Additional Amenities: Observation deck (currently under renovation), bait shop, and snack bar.
Fish Caught
Catfish Speckled Trout Redfish Blue Crab