If the pier is a public pier, fishing license exemptions may apply, but all California regulations still apply. Avoid overhead casting when crowded and keep distance from swimmers and surfers near shore. Watch wind—Venice can get gusty, increasing snag/tangle risk.

Anglers who want variety in an urban beach setting, beginners learning sabiki and basic bottom rigs, and intermediate anglers targeting halibut when baitfish are around.

Pacific sardine and Pacific mackerel; white croaker; jacksmelt and topsmelt; queenfish; surfperch; yellowfin and spotfin croaker; California halibut; plus rays (thornback/round) and occasional barracuda.

When sardines/mackerel are present, the bite can be fast and you’ll see anglers switching almost entirely to sabikis/jigs. If you’re only catching small croaker/white croaker, move sections or change bait size.

Carry two go-to setups: a sabiki for baitfish/mackerel mid-water and a simple sliding/bottom rig for croaker, perch, and halibut. Halibut often sit in depressions between pilings—fish live bait near bottom if you can catch it first. Bring a net for legal halibut and keep tackle organized in crowded conditions.

Warm months often improve pelagic schooling (mackerel/sardines). Early mornings are strong for calmer water and fewer crowds. Night sessions can improve odds for rays/sharks and, some seasons, barracuda.