Deerfield Beach International Fishing Pier | Fort Lauderdale

The Deerfield Beach International Fishing Pier is a major public structure extending into the Atlantic Ocean from the heart of Deerfield Beach, Florida. Measuring 976 feet (297 meters) in length, the pier is both a scenic coastal landmark and a hub for saltwater fishing and oceanfront recreation. It serves as a gathering place for anglers, walkers, photographers, and beachgoers who want a closer experience of the Atlantic coastline.

Location and Setting

The pier is located at 200 NE 21st Avenue, Deerfield Beach, FL 33441, directly east of the city's main beach and aligned with several beachfront restaurants, cafés, and public amenities. It sits adjacent to:

A wide, clean public beach with lifeguards

The Deerfield Beach Boardwalk

Oceanfront parks and green spaces

Commercial areas with shops, eateries, and accommodations

The pier area is walkable and bike-friendly, making it a centerpiece of the city’s tourism and community life.

Design and Structure

Originally constructed in the 1950s and rebuilt several times due to storm damage, the current version of the pier includes:

Concrete pilings and a wooden deck designed to withstand strong coastal conditions

Handrails, benches, and shaded rest areas along the walkway

Fish-cleaning stations with access to running water

Lighting fixtures for nighttime access

ADA-accessible ramps and features

The pier is open to the public for both sightseeing and fishing, with a modest admission fee depending on the activity.

Fishing Activities

Deerfield Beach Pier is a favorite among local and visiting anglers. It allows fishing without needing a personal saltwater fishing license since it operates under a pier license that covers all paid users.

Common species caught off the pier include:

Snapper (especially mangrove snapper)

Spanish mackerel

Pompano

Jack crevalle

Bluefish

Sheepshead

Kingfish

Permit

Barracuda (occasionally)

Flounder

The pier is ideal for both novice and experienced fishermen, with several cleaning stations and plenty of space to set up gear. Rod rentals are available for those who do not bring their own equipment.

Fishing Rules:

No cast nets are allowed on the pier.

Rod spacing and number limits apply to reduce overcrowding.

Coolers and bait buckets are permitted, but glass containers are not.

Bait and Tackle Shop

At the entrance of the pier, a full-service bait and tackle shop offers:

Live and frozen bait (shrimp, squid, mullet, etc.)

Fishing gear and terminal tackle

Snacks, drinks, and souvenirs

Pier-related merchandise (t-shirts, hats, etc.)

Rod and reel rentals ($18 per day + refundable cash deposit)

This shop is also where visitors pay admission or obtain rental gear.

Admission Fees (before renovation closure)

Fishing Fee (Daily): $4 per person

Rod Rental: $18 per day + $25 cash deposit (ID required)

Sightseeing Fee: $2 for non-residents, $1 for residents with ID

Military & First Responders: Free with ID

Children under 6: Free

Passes are also available for frequent visitors, including monthly and annual permits.

Renovations (2024–2025)

As of June 2024, the Deerfield Beach Pier is closed for renovation due to damage sustained during Tropical Storm Nicole in late 2022. The city approved a full restoration and upgrade of the structure, with work projected to last 14 to 18 months, placing reopening sometime in mid-2025.

Key upgrades under construction include:

Demolition of the old pier pavilion

Construction of two new 20' x 20' shade pavilions

New fish cleaning stations (six total), each with water access

Installation of 15 new benches along the pier

Modernized fencing and gate systems

An illuminated welcome sign

General repairs and fortification to storm-damaged sections

During the renovation period, the bait shop remains open, and the beach itself is fully accessible.

Nearby Amenities and Environment

The pier is part of a lively beach district that includes:

Deerfield Beach Café: Oceanfront casual dining next to the pier, offering breakfast, burgers, seafood, and drinks

JB’s on the Beach: A popular upscale spot just south of the pier, known for fresh seafood and live music

The Whale's Rib: A beloved seafood diner featured on the Food Network

The beach area also has:

Outdoor showers and restrooms

Picnic tables and green lawns

Public parking lots (metered and garage)

Lifeguard towers and beach safety patrols

Events and Community Use

The pier and surrounding beach are regularly used for:

Fishing tournaments

Beach yoga and fitness classes

Holiday events and fireworks

Photography and nature observation

Sunrise and sunset watching

With its panoramic views of the ocean and coastline, the pier is a popular spot for weddings, proposals, and family photos.

Accessibility and Practical Info

Hours (before closure): 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily

Parking: Metered spaces nearby; pay stations and mobile payment accepted

Public Transit: Accessible via Broward County Transit

Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible entrance and restrooms

Summary

Deerfield Beach International Fishing Pier is a cornerstone of the city’s waterfront identity. It offers an affordable, safe, and engaging experience for visitors seeking relaxation, ocean views, and fishing activities. Though it is temporarily closed for improvements, it is expected to reopen in 2025 as a fully renovated and enhanced facility that preserves its legacy while offering better amenities and storm resilience for future generations.