By Amanda Moore, Loggerhead Marinelife Center, Contributing Writer
When fishing at the Juno Beach Pier, anglers typically catch a wide variety of sea life, including snook, bluefish, Spanish mackerel, and blue runners. Residing near the Gulf Stream, our pier provides quality fishing throughout the year. As we approach the winter months, the warm waters near the pier will attract pompano, which are best caught using jigs and bait, such as fleas and clams. A simple bait and lure combination will attract bluefish. Use cut bait for jacks and blue runners. When fishing for Spanish mackerel, our experts recommend using lures and jigs. Although Atlantic croakers are typically found north of Cape Canaveral on the east coast, they migrate south and move inland during the winter months; to catch these fish, use whiting for bait. Saltwater crappie, known for congregating in bodies of water near outlets, respond best to jigs and gotcha fishing lures.
As the holiday season attracts more guests and anglers to the pier, it’s important to remember to recycle used monofilament lines in the designated recycling containers.
Loggerhead Marinelife Center offers private Fishing Lessons for adults and children (ages 8 and up). One-hour lessons are offered daily; scheduled based on availability. Cost: $25/angler (with own gear); $35/angler with rental gear. Bait not included. Email reservations@marinelife.org to register. The full-service Pier House features a snack bar as well as a variety of fishing tackle, including rental poles and bait.
Randy Yent, Pier Coordinator
Juno Beach Pier (561) 627-8280 Ext. 140
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