Early Development

Juno Beach Pier, located in Juno Beach, Florida, is a popular destination for both fishing enthusiasts and sightseers. The original pier was constructed in the 1950s and has been a staple of the local community ever since. It quickly gained popularity due to its strategic location, extending into the Atlantic Ocean, providing excellent opportunities for fishing and stunning views.

Construction and Enhancements

The original structure of Juno Beach Pier underwent significant renovations over the years to maintain its safety and functionality. Notably, in 1999, the pier was entirely rebuilt to modern standards. This reconstruction was necessary to address damage from numerous hurricanes and the general wear and tear of the old wooden structure. The new pier was constructed with more durable materials, including concrete pilings and synthetic decking, designed to withstand the harsh marine environment.

Environmental and Structural Challenges

Over the years, Juno Beach Pier has faced numerous environmental challenges, particularly from hurricanes and tropical storms. Each significant weather event has required repairs and reinforcements to ensure the pier’s safety and functionality. Continuous maintenance and upgrades have been essential in keeping the pier operational and safe for visitors.

Management by Loggerhead Marinelife Center

In recent years, the management of Juno Beach Pier has been taken over by the Loggerhead Marinelife Center, a non-profit organization dedicated to ocean conservation and the protection of sea turtles. This partnership has brought about several enhancements to the pier’s operations and educational outreach. The Loggerhead Marinelife Center has implemented programs to educate visitors about marine life, conservation efforts, and responsible fishing practices. Additionally, the center has improved the facilities and services offered at the pier, ensuring a better experience for all visitors.

Recent Improvements

Recent enhancements to the pier include improved lighting for night fishing, upgraded restroom facilities, and better accessibility features. The surrounding area has been developed to offer ample parking, picnic areas, and shaded spots, making it a family-friendly destination. The pier also features a bait and tackle shop and a concession stand, providing convenience for anglers and visitors alike.

Pier Specifics and Amenities

• Length: Approximately 990 feet into the Atlantic Ocean.
• Lighting: Enhanced lighting for night fishing.
• Fish Cleaning Stations: Equipped with running water.
• Benches: Numerous benches for relaxation.
• Parking: Ample parking space available near the pier.
• Restrooms: Upgraded facilities available for visitors.
• Accessibility: Improved features for better accessibility.
• Additional Amenities: Bait and tackle shop, concession stand, picnic areas, and shaded spots.

Fish Species and Fishing Techniques

The waters around Juno Beach 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. Snook

Techniques: Use live bait such as pilchards or pinfish, or artificial lures like jigs and soft plastics. Fish during tidal changes near the pier pilings and structures.

Best Months: March to November.

2. King Mackerel

Techniques: Use live bait such as blue runners or pilchards, or artificial lures like spoons and jigs. Fish near the end of the pier during moving tides.

Best Months: April to October.

3. Pompano

Techniques: Use live bait such as sand fleas or shrimp, or artificial lures like jigs. Fish near sandy bottoms and during rising tides off the pier.

Best Months: January to April, October to December.

4. Spanish Mackerel

Techniques: Use small metal lures or live bait such as small fish. Fish near schools of baitfish and during moving tides off the pier.

Best Months: May to September.

5. Bluefish

Techniques: Use cut bait like mackerel or bunker, or artificial lures like metal jigs and poppers. Fish near schools of baitfish and during moving tides off the pier.

Best Months: April to October.

6. Tarpon

Techniques: Use live bait such as mullet or pinfish. Fish near the end of the pier, especially during early morning or late evening.

Best Months: May to August.

7. Jack Crevalle

Techniques: Use live bait such as pilchards or mullet, or artificial lures like topwater plugs and jigs. Fish near the surface during moving tides off the pier.

Best Months: Year-round.

8. Sheepshead

Techniques: Use live bait such as fiddler crabs or shrimp. Fish near pier pilings and other structures where barnacles and crustaceans are present.

Best Months: January to March, October to December.

9. Black Drum

Techniques: Use live bait such as shrimp or crabs. Fish near the pier pilings and structures during tidal changes.

Best Months: February to April, October to December.

10. Permit

Techniques: Use live crabs or shrimp. Fish near the end of the pier during moving tides.

Best Months: May to September.

11. Ladyfish

Techniques: Use small live bait or artificial lures like spoons and jigs. Fish near the surface during moving tides off the pier.

Best Months: May to October.

12. Whiting

Techniques: Use small pieces of shrimp or bloodworms on small hooks. Fish near sandy bottoms and during rising tides off the pier.

Best Months: Year-round.

Fishing Calendar