Historical and Practical Information

Phil Foster Park Fishing Pier, located in Riviera Beach, Florida, near the Lake Worth Inlet, is celebrated for its exceptional accessibility to both novice and experienced anglers. The park itself is situated on an 18-acre island that is part of the larger Phil Foster Park, an area renowned for its rich biodiversity and water sports activities. The pier and surrounding waters are particularly famous for snorkeling, diving, and of course, fishing.

Originally developed in the mid-20th century, Phil Foster Park was designed to provide public access to the beautiful waters of the Intracoastal Waterway. The fishing pier, a key feature of the park, was constructed to offer anglers easy access to the diverse marine life that thrives in these waters. Over the years, the pier has undergone several upgrades to improve its facilities and make it a premier destination for fishing enthusiasts and families alike.

Phil Foster Park Fishing Pier was not originally part of an old bridge. It was specifically constructed as a recreational feature within Phil Foster Park, designed to provide public access for fishing and other water-related activities. However, it’s worth noting that Phil Foster Park is also known for its proximity to the Blue Heron Bridge, which is renowned for its excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities due to the artificial reefs and abundant sea life. While the park and its facilities are distinct from the bridge, their close proximity means that visitors often associate the two as part of the larger recreational area offering various water sports and fishing opportunities.

Fish Types and Techniques

The unique location of the Phil Foster Park Fishing Pier, near the Lake Worth Inlet, provides anglers with the opportunity to catch a wide range of saltwater fish species:

• Snook – Best caught during the summer months using live bait such as shrimp or mullet.
• Tarpon – Active during the early mornings and late evenings, often caught using large live baits or lures.
• Jack Crevalle – Known for their fighting spirit, they can be caught using spoons, poppers, and live bait.
• Spotted Seatrout – Available year-round, best targeted with live shrimp or soft plastic lures.
• Sheepshead – Found around the pier’s structure, best caught with fiddler crabs or oysters.

Fishing Calendar and Techniques

January to March

• Sheepshead: Best caught with fiddler crabs or oysters.
• Spotted Seatrout: Live shrimp or artificial baits.

April to June

• Snook: Start moving in; live shrimp, mullet, or artificial lures are effective.
• Tarpon: Early arrivals can be targeted with large live baits.

July to September

• Snook: Peak season, continue with effective baits.
• Jack Crevalle: Aggressive on spoons and poppers.

October to December

• Tarpon: Still active, targeting with live bait or lures.
• Spotted Seatrout: Continues to be good, similar tactics as earlier.

Amenities and Accessibility

Phil Foster Park Fishing Pier features comprehensive amenities that cater to all visitors. The park offers ample parking, clean and accessible restroom facilities, picnic areas with BBQ grills, and a designated swimming area. The pier itself is equipped with safety railings and night lighting, making it a safe and welcoming place for evening fishing sessions.

The park is also a hub for wildlife enthusiasts, providing underwater snorkeling trails and artificial reefs nearby, which enhance the ecological diversity and attract various marine life. With its blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and community-focused amenities, Phil Foster Park Fishing Pier stands out as a top destination for anglers and outdoor lovers in Florida.