Vilano Beach Fishing Pier
Vilano Beach Fishing Pier

Vilano Beach Fishing Pier

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260 Vilano Rd, St. Augustine, FL 32084
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Overview

Quick Facts

  • Location: 260 Vilano Rd, St. Augustine, Florida 32084
  • Pier Type: Intracoastal fishing pier
  • Water Type: Saltwater – Tolomato River / Intracoastal Waterway
  • Phone: (904) 209-0326
  • Access: Public fishing access; posted rules apply
  • Fishing License: Florida saltwater fishing requirements apply unless covered by an applicable exemption or pier license
  • Best For: Redfish, spotted seatrout, sheepshead and flounder
  • Best Time to Fish: Year-round
  • Common Species Nearby: Redfish, spotted seatrout, sheepshead, flounder, black drum and other inshore species
  • Tackle Style: Light to medium saltwater tackle
  • Fishing Style: Pier fishing, bottom fishing, live bait and artificial lures
  • Tides: Moving tides can strongly influence fishing
  • Night Fishing: Check current pier access hours
  • Amenities: Pier, pavilion, floating dock, parking and waterfront recreation

Overview

Vilano Beach Fishing Pier provides anglers with saltwater access on the Intracoastal side of Vilano Beach, just north of historic St. Augustine. Unlike an ocean pier extending through the surf, this location is oriented toward protected inshore waters where tidal current and structure create habitat for a variety of Florida game fish.

The pier is a good option for anglers interested in redfish, spotted seatrout, sheepshead, flounder, and other species that move through the St. Augustine estuary.

Fishing Tips

Live shrimp is a versatile choice for several species and can be fished beneath a float or closer to the bottom. For redfish and trout, try soft-plastic shrimp, paddle-tail swimbaits, or other small baitfish imitations during moving water.

Sheepshead anglers should concentrate around pilings and other hard structure with shrimp, fiddler crabs, or similar baits. Keep an eye on the tide because current strength can dramatically change presentation and fish activity.

Bottom Line

A convenient St. Augustine-area pier for year-round inshore fishing, especially for redfish, trout, sheepshead, flounder, and other Intracoastal species.

More Info

Amenities
County-listed amenities include parking, pavilion, boardwalk access, and restrooms; hours listed as dawn to dusk.
Rules, Regulations & Safety Notes
Follow posted county rules and respect other anglers—current spots can get crowded. FWC seasons/size limits apply, and shore-based shark fishing requires a no-cost permit. Be cautious with footing during wet or windy conditions.
Hours of Operation
Sun–Thu 5am–11pm; Fri–Sat 5am–midnight.
License Requirements
Covered (fishing license included with fishing fee).
Fishing Fees
Sightseeing $1; Fishing $7; 3-day fishing $20; Annual: nonresident $100 / resident $70 / senior $50.
Who This Pier Is Best For
Anglers who like fishing moving water near an inlet; intermediate anglers chasing tide windows; families who want a county pier with basic amenities and a defined operating window.
Fish Species Commonly Caught
Redfish, flounder, sheepshead, black drum, mangrove snapper (seasonal), trout (seasonal), jacks, Spanish mackerel (seasonal)
Local Insights
Inlet piers reward timing more than distance—on a strong tide, shorter casts that keep baits near the edge of the channel can outfish long bombs. If the current is ripping, increase weight before changing baits.
Pier Fishing Tips
Fish the current: cast slightly up-current and let your rig settle as it swings. Use heavier line around pilings and a simple shrimp bottom rig for steady action. Bring a small jig or spoon for quick shots at schooling fish. If you hook a larger fish in current, use a net/sling and avoid lifting by the line.
Best Times to Fish
Moving tides (especially incoming); early morning; cooler months for sheepshead/drum; warmer months for jacks and mackerel when bait moves through the inlet.
Address
260 Vilano Rd, St. Augustine, FL 32084
State
FL
Municipality
St Augustine
Zip/Post Code
32084

Plan Your Fishing Trip

Everything you need for a successful day on the pier — from bait and licenses to nearby stays and fishing charters.

Location

260 Vilano Rd, St. Augustine, FL 32084

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