Fort Island Gulf Beach

Pier Closed — Storm Damage

The fishing pier at Fort Island Gulf Beach (the Roger Batchelor Pier) was severely damaged by hurricanes and is currently closed to fishing. The beach itself has reopened. Check with Citrus County Parks & Recreation for the latest before planning a fishing trip.

Fort Island Gulf Beach:

Fort Island Gulf Beach is a quiet 15-acre Citrus County park at the very end of Fort Island Trail — the only sandy Gulf beach in the county you can drive to. It sits where the Crystal River empties into Crystal Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, reached by a long road winding through open salt marsh.

The park’s fishing pier is the Roger Batchelor Fishing Pier, about 160 feet out over the water with a 55-foot tee at the end. Storm damage has closed the pier (along with the boardwalk and boat ramp) while repairs continue, so for now fishing access here is limited — and fishing from the beach itself isn’t permitted.

Even with the pier closed, it’s a pretty, low-key stop. The white-sand beach has reopened with temporary restrooms and showers, dolphins are common just offshore, and the marsh drive in is full of birds.

Park Facts

Before You Fish

• The fishing pier is currently closed for storm repairs — confirm it has reopened before planning to fish.
• Fishing is allowed from the pier only, not from the beach or jetties.
• Park entry is free; open daily about 6 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
• No pets are permitted at the beach or its jetties.
• Temporary/portable restrooms and showers are on site; the boat ramp remains closed.
• Bring your own Florida fishing license and follow FWC regulations.

Plan Your Visit

16000 W Fort Island Trail, Crystal River, FL 34429

A quiet Gulf beach park at the mouth of the Crystal River. Free entry, open ~6am–9:30pm. The Roger Batchelor fishing pier is currently closed for storm repairs.

Get Directions