Saltwater Pier

Santa Monica Pier

One of the most recognizable piers on the California coast, Santa Monica Pier extends well past the surf line into deeper water, putting bonito, mackerel, queenfish, and the occasional halibut or barracuda within casting range without a boat. The pier deck and railings make it an easy, accessible spot for beginners and families, and it stays productive for bait fish nearly year-round. CDFW lists it as a public pier under Title 14, Section 1.88.

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What you'll find here

Classic public pier — bait shop, rod rentals, no license on the pier deck (CCR 1.88).

License & access

CDFW lists Santa Monica Pier as a public pier: no sportfishing license on the pier itself. Two-rod limit. License required if you step onto the beach to land a fish.

Species caught at Santa Monica Pier

Map

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Regulations reminder

Size limits, bag limits, seasons, and MPA rules are set by CDFW and can change in-season. Public-pier license exceptions (CCR 1.88) apply only on qualifying structures — not on the beach next to them. This is an independent site and is not affiliated with CDFW.

wildlife.ca.gov/Fishing →