Photo via Google Places
Robert P. Murkshe Memorial Park is a well-maintained Brevard County park featuring a fishing pier on the Indian River Lagoon, one of the most biologically diverse estuaries in North America. Located on Merritt Island in the heart of Florida’s Space Coast, the pier gives anglers direct access to the productive grass flat and channel edge habitat of the lagoon. The park is a favorite among local anglers for its reliable year-round fishing and peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere.
The Indian River Lagoon is legendary for its Redfish and Spotted Seatrout fishery and the pier here provides consistent access to both species. Snook are present year-round near the dock structure and are especially active at night. Flounder are caught near the bottom around the pier pilings. In summer, Tarpon cruise through the lagoon in good numbers. The lagoon’s exceptional water clarity often allows anglers to sight-fish from the pier — watching Redfish and Seatrout cruise the grass flats is a thrilling experience.
Popular Species
Indian River Lagoon
Redfish, Spotted Seatrout, Snook, Flounder, Tarpon, Jack Crevalle, Mangrove Snapper.
World Class Lagoon
Most Biodiverse Estuary
The Indian River Lagoon is one of North America’s most biodiverse estuaries — exceptional Redfish and Seatrout fishing year-round.
Space Coast Location
Merritt Island
Located near Kennedy Space Center — rocket launches are visible from the pier on launch days.
Fishing at Robert P. Murkshe Memorial Park
Redfish and Spotted Seatrout are the primary targets and can be caught year-round in the lagoon. Snook are present near the pier structure especially at night. Flounder are caught near the bottom around the pilings. In summer, Tarpon cruise through the lagoon and can occasionally be sight-fished. Jack Crevalle arrive in feeding schools in spring and fall.
Live shrimp under a popping cork is the go-to for Spotted Seatrout in the lagoon grass flats near the pier. For Redfish, use cut mullet or live shrimp near the bottom along the pier edges. Snook at night respond to live shrimp or small pinfish on a light leader. If the water is clear sight-fish for Redfish tailing on the nearby grass flats with a light spinning rod.
Local Tip
Watch for Tailing Redfish
On calm mornings the water near this pier can be crystal clear — walk slowly and scan the nearby grass flats for Redfish tailing in the shallows. A light spinning rod with a small jig or live shrimp pitched accurately to a tailing Red is one of the most exciting fishing experiences available from a Florida fishing pier.
Before You Fish
No Florida fishing license required from this county pier. The park has free parking, restrooms, and a boat ramp in addition to the fishing pier.
- Free parking, restrooms, and boat ramp in the park.
- Free to fish — no pier entrance fee.
- No Florida fishing license required.
- Kennedy Space Center visible nearby — check launch schedules.
- Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge adjacent.
Plan Your Visit
Merritt Island, FL 32952
Free to fish. No fishing license required. Free parking and restrooms on-site. Brevard County park.
Bait, Charters & Marinas Near This Pier
A few top-rated coastal businesses near Robert P. Murkshe Memorial Park to gear up and get on the water.
Tide Forecast
Tides shown for the nearest NOAA station — a planning guide. Always confirm conditions before you head out.