Photo via Google Places
Rickenbacker Causeway Fishing Pier — East is one of Miami’s most accessible and productive fishing locations, sitting on the Rickenbacker Causeway that connects mainland Miami to Key Biscayne. The East Pier overlooks the open waters of Biscayne Bay and provides some of the best shore-based fishing access in the entire Miami metropolitan area. With the Miami skyline as a backdrop and tropical marine life in the clear blue waters below, fishing from this pier is a uniquely South Florida experience.
Biscayne Bay is one of Florida’s most productive marine ecosystems and the pier here gives anglers access to an exceptional variety of tropical and subtropical species. Snook are present year-round near the structure especially at night. Tarpon cruise the causeway in summer in impressive numbers. Permit, Bonefish, and Jack Crevalle are all possible from this pier. Mutton Snapper, Mangrove Snapper, and Yellowtail Snapper are consistent catches. Barracuda are commonly seen near the pier structure. Spanish Mackerel arrive in season.
Popular Species
Biscayne Bay Tropical
Snook, Tarpon, Permit, Mangrove Snapper, Mutton Snapper, Jack Crevalle, Barracuda, Spanish Mackerel, Bonefish.
Miami Icon
Biscayne Bay Views
Fish with the Miami skyline as your backdrop in the crystal clear waters of Biscayne Bay — one of Florida’s most scenic fishing locations.
Tropical Species
South Florida Mix
Access to tropical and subtropical species rarely available from shore fishing in Florida — Permit, Tarpon, and Bonefish all possible.
Fishing at Rickenbacker Causeway Fishing Pier — East
Snook are the consistent night fishing target near the causeway structure — use live shrimp or pinfish on a light leader in the shadow lines under the bridge lights for reliable year-round action. Tarpon arrive in summer in impressive numbers and can be sight-fished as they roll near the surface — have a heavy rod rigged with a live crab or large threadfin herring. Mangrove Snapper and Mutton Snapper are caught near the bottom with live shrimp on a bottom rig.
Permit are occasionally caught from the pier on live crabs — one of the most exciting catches available from any Florida fishing pier. Jack Crevalle arrive in large feeding schools and hit almost any lure. Barracuda are commonly seen near the pier structure and strike on fast-retrieved silver spoons. Spanish Mackerel arrive in season and respond to small jigs and spoons. Night fishing under the causeway lights is consistently productive.
Local Tip
Fish the Incoming Tide at Night
The incoming tide at night on the Rickenbacker Causeway is one of South Florida’s best pier fishing situations. Baitfish concentrate around the causeway structure and every predator in Biscayne Bay moves in to feed. Snook, Tarpon, Jack Crevalle, and Barracuda all become active at the same time creating fast and furious action. Position yourself at the downtide side of the causeway and work live baits through the current for the best results.
Before You Fish
A Florida fishing license IS required to fish from this location. The Rickenbacker Causeway toll applies for vehicles traveling to Key Biscayne. The causeway is one of Miami’s most popular recreational areas with cycling, windsurfing, and beach access all nearby.
- Florida fishing license IS required at this location.
- Rickenbacker Causeway toll applies for vehicles.
- Key Biscayne beaches and Crandon Park nearby.
- Virginia Key Beach and Miami Seaquarium adjacent.
- Restaurants and food trucks along the causeway.
- Excellent cycling and recreational access along the causeway.
Plan Your Visit
Rickenbacker Causeway, Miami, FL 33149
Florida fishing license required. Causeway toll applies. Key Biscayne beaches and Crandon Park nearby. Miami Seaquarium adjacent.