Photo via Google Places
Russell Fields City Pier is Panama City Beach’s signature fishing pier, extending into the clear green Gulf waters from the heart of one of Florida’s most visited beach destinations. The pier has long been a centerpiece of the Panama City Beach fishing community and draws anglers from across the Southeast who come for the excellent Gulf fishing and the lively beach atmosphere that surrounds it.
The pier’s Gulf of Mexico location provides excellent access to the pelagic species that define Panhandle fishing. Spanish Mackerel are caught almost year-round in large feeding schools. Cobia arrive in spring and fall during their Gulf migrations and are sight-fished from the pier end. King Mackerel are the big fall draw and are taken with live bait rigs near the pier end. Pompano work the sandy bottom near shore. Redfish and Flounder are caught around the pier structure. The pier is fully lit for excellent night fishing.
Popular Species
Gulf Panhandle Mix
Spanish Mackerel, Cobia, King Mackerel, Pompano, Redfish, Flounder, Bluefish, Sharks.
Beach Destination
Panama City Beach
Located in the heart of one of Florida’s most popular beach destinations — world-class Gulf fishing with a lively beach atmosphere.
Year-Round Action
Spanish Mackerel
Spanish Mackerel are caught almost year-round in large feeding schools — one of the most consistent producers on the Panhandle.
Fishing at Russell Fields City Pier
Spanish Mackerel are the bread and butter species here and can be caught almost any month of the year — fast-retrieve small silver spoons or jigs near the surface for consistent action. Cobia are the exciting spring and fall bonus — walk the pier end regularly and scan the surface for large fish cruising past. Keep a heavy rod rigged with a live pinfish ready at all times during Cobia season.
King Mackerel are the premier fall species at the pier end where the deeper water holds larger fish. Use live bait rigs with blue runners or menhaden suspended mid-water for best results. Pompano near the shore end with sand fleas or Fishbites on a pompano rig in cooler months. Night fishing with live shrimp under the pier lights is productive for Flounder and Redfish throughout the year.
Local Tip
Always Have a Cobia Rod Ready
Panama City Beach is one of the better Panhandle locations for sight-fishing Cobia from a pier. In spring and fall walk the pier regularly and keep your eyes on the water near the end — Cobia appear without warning and you have seconds to get a bait in front of them. Keep a heavy spinning rod rigged with a live pinfish or large swim jig at all times during the season. The window to cast is short but the reward is a trophy fish.
Before You Fish
No Florida fishing license required to fish from this city pier. Panama City Beach offers a huge range of restaurants, entertainment, and accommodations within easy reach of the pier.
- On-site bait shop and restrooms.
- No Florida fishing license required.
- Panama City Beach restaurants and entertainment nearby.
- Pier entrance fee: approximately $6 to fish.
- Fully lit for night fishing.
Plan Your Visit
16101 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32413
Approximately $6 to fish. No fishing license required. On-site bait shop. Panama City Beach attractions nearby. (850) 233-5080
Length
1500 ft
Fishing Fee
~$6
Structure
Concrete
Lights
Yes
Bait Shop
Yes
License
Not required
Tide Forecast
Tides shown for the nearest NOAA station — a planning guide. Always confirm conditions before you head out.
Bait, Charters & Marinas Near This Pier
A few top-rated coastal businesses near Russell Fields City Pier to gear up and get on the water.