Merry Pier
Unpretentious pier offering fishing gear rentals, bait, seafood snacks, and scenic boat tours in historic Pass-a-Grille.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Catch the sunset & boat tours
Merry Pier
Best Time
Catch the sunset & boat tours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Unpretentious pier offering fishing gear rentals, bait, seafood snacks, and scenic boat tours in historic Pass-a-Grille.
"Wonderful people work here! And they have a super nice dog too!"
🎣 Rent Gear & Bait
Easily rent fishing poles and purchase live bait like shrimp for a successful outing.
🐬 Book Boat Tours
Secure your spot on sunset cruises for dolphin sightings and stunning views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Fishing on the Pier
Merry Pier
Rent poles and bait for a fun fishing session, catching various species. Great for kids and adults alike!
Sunset Dolphin Cruises
Merry Pier
Enjoy breathtaking sunset views and spot playful dolphins on a memorable boat tour.
Pelican Feeding Frenzy
Merry Pier
Watch pelicans eagerly await fish scraps, a fun and eco-friendly spectacle.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Fishing Fun & Boat Tours
Pass-a-Grille Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎣 Rent Gear & Bait
Easily rent fishing poles and purchase live bait like shrimp for a successful outing.
🐬 Book Boat Tours
Secure your spot on sunset cruises for dolphin sightings and stunning views.
🐶 Friendly Staff & Dog
Expect helpful service from the pier staff and their resident dog!
🌊 Pelican Spectacle
Don't miss the fun of watching pelicans feed on leftover fish scraps.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎣 Rent Gear & Bait
Easily rent fishing poles and purchase live bait like shrimp for a successful outing.
🐬 Book Boat Tours
Secure your spot on sunset cruises for dolphin sightings and stunning views.
🐶 Friendly Staff & Dog
Expect helpful service from the pier staff and their resident dog!
🌊 Pelican Spectacle
Don't miss the fun of watching pelicans feed on leftover fish scraps.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Merry Pier's friendly staff, excellent fishing opportunities, and enjoyable sunset dolphin cruises. The pier is a great spot for families, offering affordable fun and a chance to see pelicans feed. While the shop closes relatively early, the overall experience is highly recommended for its charm and value.
"This is a great little place! We were unable to get here before 4:30, and the shop closes at 5:30. They got us a pole and bait to rent for that hour, and were kind and helpful about doing that so close to their closing time. We were visiting from out of town and this was the only opportunity for fishing, so we were extremely grateful. We didn't see an end time on the website, or we might not have tried to get here in the first place. But I'm glad we made the trek (1 1/2 hours). The last boat had also just came in, and they were getting the caught fish ready for the people who caught them. That was well organized and fun to watch. They feed the left over fish parts to the eagerly awaiting pelicans, I'm sharing a video. So fun, less waste and happy pelicans and people. Highly recommend this place if you want to fish and need to rent a pole, or can go out on the boat. Wonderful people work here! And they have a super nice dog too!"
Hethyr Fouse
"This was my second sunset tour with this group. Wonderful experience, great value, and can't beat the views. Our tour yesterday evening enjoyed seeing several dolphins in the bay, as well. Captains were both professional and kind."
Kimberly McKane
"Took my niece and nephew to Merry Pier yesterday morning, rented 3 fishing poles and got a few buckets of live shrimp and caught 32 fish in 2 hours, which included 4 different species. Nothing too big to brag about, but the kids had a great time. We even had a hungry pelican come over scrounging for a free meal and we obliged him. The pier didn't have a large crowd so there was ample room to fish. The gentleman in the store was really friendly and provided us with a few tips on how to fish using the live shrimp. Over all, a wonderful experience. Will return again."
Rudy Bogen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Merry Pier is located in the Pass-a-Grille area of St. Pete Beach. You can drive and find street parking nearby, though it can be busy. It's also accessible via local transit options that serve St. Pete Beach.
Street parking is available near Merry Pier in Pass-a-Grille. During peak times, it might be challenging to find a spot, so arriving earlier is recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While the pier itself may be accessible, the shop and charter services have specific operating hours. It's best to check their closing times, as they may not be open late into the night.
The shop at Merry Pier typically closes around 5:30 PM, though this can vary. It's advisable to confirm their hours before your visit, especially if planning a late afternoon or evening trip.
For saltwater fishing from a pier in Florida, a recreational saltwater fishing license is generally not required if you are fishing from a licensed pier. Merry Pier is a licensed pier, so you likely won't need a separate license.
There's a fee for renting fishing poles and purchasing bait. Boat tours and fishing charters will have separate pricing. Specific costs can be obtained by contacting the pier directly or visiting their shop.
🎫 🎣 Onsite Experience
You can rent fishing gear, buy bait, book fishing charters or sunset dolphin cruises, and enjoy the views. There are also snacks, drinks, and souvenirs available.
Yes, Merry Pier offers fishing pole rentals and sells various types of bait, including live shrimp and frozen squid.
Absolutely! Merry Pier offers sunset tours where you can often spot dolphins, and fishing charters for a more dedicated angling experience.
Anglers at Merry Pier have reported catching various species, including snapper and other common Gulf Coast fish. The type of fish can depend on the season and conditions.
Yes, Merry Pier is a fantastic spot for families. Kids enjoy the excitement of fishing, watching the pelicans, and the overall relaxed atmosphere.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Merry Pier has a shop that sells snacks and drinks. For more extensive dining options, the surrounding Pass-a-Grille area offers casual seafood spots and bars.
The shop at Merry Pier typically offers snacks, drinks, and some basic provisions. It's a convenient place to grab a quick bite while fishing or waiting for a boat tour.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning sunset views over the water, playful dolphins during boat tours, the lively pelican feeding, and the charming Pass-a-Grille beach scene.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a sunset dolphin cruise for an unforgettable family outing. It's a chance to create lasting memories with beautiful scenery and the thrill of spotting marine life. The pier shop also offers snacks and drinks, making it easy to spend a good portion of the day here without needing to venture far for refreshments.
🎣 Anglers and Fishing Enthusiasts
If you're looking for a more extensive fishing adventure, booking a fishing charter through Merry Pier is an excellent option. These charters can take you to prime fishing spots for a more targeted and potentially fruitful experience. Remember to check the pier's operating hours, as the shop closes in the late afternoon, but the pier itself might offer opportunities for night fishing if street access is permitted.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Fishing at Merry Pier
For those without a license, fishing from Merry Pier is convenient as it's a licensed pier, meaning you generally don't need a separate saltwater fishing license. This makes it an accessible and enjoyable experience for tourists and locals alike. Whether you're aiming for a big catch or just a relaxing afternoon by the water, Merry Pier offers a classic Florida fishing experience.
Tips for a Successful Fishing Trip:
* Bait Choice: Live shrimp is often a popular and effective bait.
* Timing: Mornings and late afternoons can be productive times for fishing.
* Ask for Advice: Don't hesitate to ask the pier staff for their recommendations on bait and fishing spots.
Boat Tours and Excursions
For a more focused aquatic adventure, fishing charters are also available. These can cater to those looking for a more serious fishing expedition. The pier also serves as a departure point for trips to nearby Shell Key, offering a chance to explore more secluded natural areas.
What to Expect on a Boat Tour:
* Wildlife Sightings: Dolphins are frequently spotted.
* Scenic Views: Enjoy beautiful Gulf Coast sunsets and coastal landscapes.
* Professional Crew: Experienced and friendly captains enhance the experience.
The Merry Pier and Pass-a-Grille History
His family opened the first store on the pier in 1902, marking the beginning of the pier's role as a community hub. This historical connection adds a unique layer to the visitor experience, offering a glimpse into the area's past. Pass-a-Grille itself is known for its wide, white-sand beaches and a cluster of beach boutiques and casual seafood spots along 8th Avenue. The Gulf Beaches Historical Museum is also nearby, showcasing local memorabilia.
Visiting Merry Pier allows you to connect with this laid-back, historic Florida vibe, making it more than just a fishing spot but a gateway to understanding the local heritage. 
Social
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