For many anglers, some of the best fishing happens after dark. Whether you’re targeting striped bass, redfish, sharks, catfish, snook, or other nighttime feeders, fishing around the clock can dramatically increase your chances of success.
While many fishing piers close at sunset or have limited operating hours, several outstanding fishing piers across the United States remain open 24 hours a day, allowing anglers to fish through the night. Some even offer lighting, bait shops, fish-cleaning stations, and overnight parking.
If you’re looking for the best places to fish after dark, these 24-hour fishing piers deserve a spot on your bucket list.
Why Fish at Night?
Many fish become more active after sunset because:
- Water temperatures cool down.
- Predators move into shallow areas.
- Baitfish gather around pier lights.
- Fishing pressure decreases.
- Large fish often feed more aggressively.
Night fishing can produce some of the biggest catches of the year, especially during summer.
1. Skyway Fishing Pier State Park, Florida
Location
Tampa Bay, Florida
The Skyway Fishing Pier is one of the most famous fishing piers in America and is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The pier is built from the former Sunshine Skyway Bridge approaches and stretches far into Tampa Bay.
Popular Species
- Snook
- Tarpon
- Grouper
- Cobia
- Spanish Mackerel
- King Mackerel
- Sharks
Why Anglers Love It
- Massive fishing area
- Excellent night fishing
- Bait and tackle available
- Lighted sections
- Year-round access
Many anglers specifically visit after dark to target tarpon, snook, and large sharks.
2. Oceanic Fishing Pier, Maryland
Location
Ocean City, Maryland
The Oceanic Fishing Pier operates 24 hours a day during its peak season and is one of the most popular night-fishing destinations on the East Coast. The pier offers lighting, rod rentals, tackle, bait, fish-cleaning stations, and restroom facilities.
Popular Species
- Striped Bass
- Bluefish
- Flounder
- Tautog
- Sea Bass
- Rays
- Sharks
Why Anglers Love It
- Excellent nighttime action
- Family-friendly environment
- Convenient downtown location
- No individual fishing license required while fishing from the pier
3. Surf City Pier, North Carolina
Location
Surf City, North Carolina
One of the most iconic fishing piers on the North Carolina coast, Surf City Pier operates 24 hours a day during much of its fishing season and offers lighting for overnight anglers.
Popular Species
- Spanish Mackerel
- Bluefish
- Flounder
- Red Drum
- Sea Mullet
- Spot
Why Anglers Love It
- Long fishing season
- Lighted night fishing
- Bait and tackle shop
- Fish-cleaning stations
4. Shelter Island Pier, California
Location
San Diego, California
Shelter Island Pier is one of Southern California’s best locations for overnight fishing and remains open 24 hours a day. The pier features lights, fish-cleaning stations, restrooms, and nearby bait services.
Popular Species
- Halibut
- Mackerel
- Bass
- Croaker
- Rays
- Sharks
Why Anglers Love It
- Free public access
- Beautiful San Diego Bay views
- Productive night fishing
- Excellent shark and ray opportunities
5. Kiptopeke Fishing Pier, Virginia
Location
Cape Charles, Virginia
The lighted fishing pier at Kiptopeke State Park remains open 24 hours from spring through late fall, making it a favorite destination for anglers targeting Chesapeake Bay species after dark.
Popular Species
- Striped Bass
- Croaker
- Spot
- Flounder
- Bluefish
Why Anglers Love It
- Lighted fishing platform
- Scenic Chesapeake Bay location
- Camping nearby
- Consistent nighttime action
6. Antioch/Oakley Regional Shoreline Fishing Pier, California
Location
Oakley, California
This Northern California fishing pier remains open for fishing 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It is especially popular among anglers targeting striped bass and catfish after sunset.
Popular Species
- Striped Bass
- Catfish
- Sturgeon
- Salmon
- Steelhead
Why Anglers Love It
- Free access
- Freshwater and migratory species
- Fish-cleaning station
- Excellent overnight fishing
Tips for Successful Night Pier Fishing
Bring Proper Lighting
Essential items include:
- Headlamp
- Flashlight
- Extra batteries
Fish Around Pier Lights
Lights attract baitfish, which in turn attract predators.
Use Fresh Bait
Nighttime favorites include:
- Shrimp
- Squid
- Cut bait
- Live baitfish
Stay Safe
Always:
- Wear non-slip footwear
- Keep walkways clear
- Watch weather conditions
- Follow pier rules
Best Species to Target at Night
Many fish feed more actively after dark.
Top nighttime targets include:
- Striped Bass
- Snook
- Redfish
- Sharks
- Catfish
- Flounder
- Black Drum
- Tarpon
Final Thoughts
Fishing under the stars offers a completely different experience than daytime angling. Less boat traffic, cooler temperatures, and active fish often combine to create some of the best fishing opportunities of the day.
Whether you’re casting for tarpon at Florida’s Skyway Fishing Pier, chasing striped bass in Virginia, or targeting sharks in California, these 24-hour fishing piers give anglers the freedom to fish whenever conditions are best.
Before visiting, always check current operating hours, seasonal regulations, and local fishing rules, as pier schedules and access policies can change throughout the year.
