Merry Pier

Merry Pier Overview

Merry Pier is a historic and world-famous fishing and boating destination located in Pass-A-Grille, St. Pete Beach, Florida. This charming pier offers a variety of activities for visitors and locals alike, including a friendly store, boat excursions, a fresh fish market, and, of course, fantastic fishing opportunities.

The pier has an old-fashioned appeal, with a bait and tackle shop, fishing charters, island excursion charters, and fresh seafood for sale. Visitors can also rent bikes and fishing rods to enhance their experience. Ranked as one of the top things to do in St. Pete Beach, Merry Pier provides a glimpse into the rich fishing culture of the area.

Anglers can enjoy a day on the water at Merry Pier, with common catches including flounder, snapper, snook, redfish, mackerel, and many others, according to Visit St Petersburg Clearwater Florida. The pier attracts both novice and experienced fishermen, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely day of casting lines and reeling in catches.

After a recent renovation, the Merry Pier reopened, with updated facilities and new features, ensuring that this beloved St. Pete Beach landmark continues to provide memorable experiences for years to come.

Pier Facilities

Merry Pier, located in Pass-A-Grille, Florida, is a world-famous fishing and boating destination that offers a range of facilities for all visitors.

The pier provides a friendly store where you can find all the essentials you need for a great day of fishing. The store stocks a variety of fishing equipment, including rods, tackle, bait, and pole rentals. This ensures that both beginners and experienced anglers have access to the necessary gear for a successful fishing trip.

Merry Pier is also an excellent spot for boating enthusiasts. Visitors can take advantage of boat excursions for a fun day out on the water. These excursions are perfect for those looking to explore the surrounding area or simply enjoy some time on the open sea.

Safety is a top priority at Merry Pier, and the pier is equipped with side rails, making it suitable for small children and families. Remember that adult supervision is always necessary, but the added safety measures allow everyone to enjoy their time at the pier worry-free.

In addition to the fishing and boating opportunities, Merry Pier also features a fresh fish market, where visitors can purchase locally caught seafood. This market ensures that you get the freshest and most delicious seafood available, making it a great place to pick up dinner after a day spent fishing or boating.

Overall, Merry Pier offers an array of facilities that cater to a wide range of interests. Whether you're an avid angler searching for the perfect tackle or a boating enthusiast looking to spend a day exploring the beautiful Florida waters, Merry Pier is sure to provide an enjoyable experience for everyone.

Fishing and Boating at Merry Pier, St. Pete

At the historic Merry Pier in Pass-A-Grille, Florida, you'll find a range of fishing and boating options, including a fish market, and various opportunities to catch a variety of fish. This popular destination for enthusiasts offers both casual and intense fishing experiences.

Species of Fish

The waters surrounding Merry Pier are teeming with diverse species of fish, providing plenty of opportunities for a bountiful catch. Common species found in the area include:

• Flounder: Known for their flat, camouflaged bodies, flounder are a popular catch at Merry Pier.
• Snapper: These bottom-dwelling fish are highly sought after for their tasty meat.
• Snook: Highly prized by recreational anglers, snook can be found around the pier and in mangroves.
• Redfish: Found in shallow water and reefs, redfish provide a fun challenge for anglers.
• Mackerel: These fast-swimming fish are abundant in the waters surrounding Merry Pier.

Fishing Trips

Merry Pier offers a variety of fishing trips, suitable for both beginners and experienced anglers. The pier is a great starting point for fishing charters, whether you are looking to embark on a half-day or full-day adventure. There are also island excursions available, providing a unique fishing experience and a chance to explore the nearby islands.

Tides

The tides play a significant role in the success of any fishing expedition. Merry Pier offers an optimal environment, as both high and low tides result in productive fishing sessions. High tide brings in baitfish, while low tide exposes inshore flats and structures that attract a wide variety of fish species.

Visiting Merry Pier's fresh fish market is a must for anyone who appreciates the taste and quality of freshly caught seafood. Both live and frozen bait are available for sale, ensuring you have everything you need for a successful and enjoyable fishing experience.

Pass-A-Grille Region

Pass-A-Grille is a charming and historic fishing village located at the southernmost end of St. Pete Beach in Florida. This delightful region is known for its beautiful sandy beaches, quaint shops, and inviting restaurants. One of the main attractions in the area is the Merry Pier.

Merry Pier is a world-famous fishing and boating destination that has been drawing visitors for decades. This historic pier offers a friendly atmosphere and a variety of activities for both locals and tourists alike. Guests can browse through the on-site store, join boat excursions, and shop at the fresh fish market. Some common catches found at Merry Pier include flounder, snapper, snook, redfish, mackerel, and many others. Both live and frozen bait are available for sale, offering plenty of options for avid anglers.

Apart from fishing, the Pass-A-Grille region is home to a number of other recreational activities. Visitors can rent bikes and explore the surrounding neighborhoods, or take a stroll along the picturesque shoreline. The area is also perfect for birdwatching, sunbathing, and simply enjoying the stunning sunsets over the water.

In summary, the Pass-A-Grille region, with its beautiful beaches and historic charm, is an ideal destination for a relaxing getaway. Merry Pier, in particular, provides a unique and enjoyable experience for those who appreciate the art of fishing and the natural beauty of Florida's coast.

Shell Key Shuttle and Tours

Shell Island

Shell Key Shuttle offers daily trips to the beautiful Shell Key, a small barrier island located just south of Pass-A-Grille and St. Petersburg Beach. The island can be reached via a 10-minute boat ride aboard a 49-passenger Corinthian Coast Guard inspected vessel. Whether you're an avid sheller, a wildlife enthusiast, or just looking for a relaxing day on an unspoiled beach, Shell Key has something for everyone.

Bird Watching

For bird watchers, Shell Key is a paradise. The island provides an ideal habitat for several species of shorebirds, seabirds, and migratory birds. Visitors can witness an array of birds, such as oystercatchers, terns, herons, and egrets, thriving in their natural surroundings. Don't forget your binoculars and camera, as Shell Key offers exceptional bird watching opportunities that Mother Nature lovers will cherish.

Dolphin Watching

In addition to bird watching, Shell Key Shuttle eco-tours provide an exceptional opportunity to observe playful dolphins in their natural environment. As the boat navigates through the picturesque waters surrounding Shell Key, passengers can enjoy the sight of these fascinating marine mammals swimming, jumping, and feeding alongside the vessel.]

Bicycle Rentals

At Merry Pier in St. Pete Beach, Florida, visitors can find a variety of bicycle rentals to explore the beautiful surroundings. Wheel Fun Rentals is the premier bike rental shop at this location, offering cruiser bikes and other options for a fun self-guided bike tour.

Cruiser Bikes: These classic beach cruiser bikes are perfect for casual rides along the Pass-A-Grill Channel, or to admire the Shell Key Shoal from a distance. Cruiser bikes provide a comfortable and relaxed ride while allowing you to cover more ground than walking. Helmets and bike locks are provided free of charge with your rental.

Self-Guided Bike Tours: The bike rentals at Merry Pier in St. Pete Beach provide an excellent opportunity for visitors to explore the area at their own pace. With a self-guided bike tour, you can enjoy the local sights, beach views, and nearby attractions without the restrictions of following a group tour schedule.

Wheel Fun Rentals at Merry Pier operates on the Pass-A-Grill Channel side of the historic Pass-A-Grille, offering a unique experience for tourists and locals alike. The rental shop features friendly customer service and a convenient location with easy access to the surrounding community.

In summary, bicycle rentals at Merry Pier in St. Pete Beach offer a fun and convenient way to explore the beautiful coastal area. Whether you choose a classic cruiser bike or opt for a self-guided bike tour, you'll have a memorable time discovering the charm and scenic views of this Florida destination.

Beach and Island Essentials

When visiting Merry Pier in St. Pete Beach, it's essential to bring some beach and island necessities with you. These items will ensure that you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience while exploring this beautiful location.

Beach Chairs and Umbrellas: Make sure to pack beach chairs and umbrellas for a comfortable and shaded spot on the sand. Folding chairs are a convenient option, as they are easy to carry and set up. For protection against the sun, a reliable beach umbrella can provide shade and help you avoid sunburns.

Supplies: It's a good idea to bring essential beach supplies like sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, towels, and a beach bag to easily carry your belongings. In addition, bring along some toys and games like beach balls and frisbees for added entertainment.

Coolers: Packing a cooler is crucial for keeping your food and drinks cold while you spend time under the sun. Make sure to include plenty of water, snacks, and sandwich items to stay refreshed and energized all day.

Alcoholic Beverages: While enjoying your time by the water, you might consider bringing along some alcoholic beverages. Keep in mind that St. Pete Beach has specific regulations on alcohol consumption, so it's essential to follow these guidelines when deciding what to bring.

Remember that having these beach and island essentials will make your visit to Merry Pier more enjoyable. Plan ahead to ensure that you have everything you need for a perfect day in St. Pete Beach.

Snorkeling at Egmont Key

Egmont Key is a beautiful island located in Tampa Bay, offering visitors a unique snorkeling experience. With crystal clear water, an abundance of sea life, and historical ruins to explore, it's no wonder that snorkeling at Egmont Key is a popular activity for tourists and locals alike.

Mask and Snorkel

To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable snorkeling experience, it's essential to have a suitable mask and snorkel. A proper-fitting mask will prevent water leakage and allow you to see the underwater world clearly. While choosing a mask, opt for one with a silicone skirt, as it provides a better seal and is more durable than plastic alternatives.

The snorkel is a vital piece of equipment that allows you to breathe while your face is submerged in the water. There are various types of snorkels to choose from, including the traditional J-style snorkel and the more advanced dry snorkel. The latter is equipped with a valve that prevents water from entering the tube, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced snorkelers.

When snorkeling at Egmont Key, you can expect to encounter a diverse range of marine life, including colorful fish, grass flats, and seashells. The warm Gulf water, pristine white sand beaches, and abundant sea life make it a perfect snorkeling destination.

Remember to keep a safe distance from marine life, avoid touching or disturbing them, and always respect the environment and its inhabitants. By doing so, you will not only have an unforgettable snorkeling experience at Egmont Key but also contribute to the preservation of this incredible ecosystem.

Safety Measures

At Merry Pier in St. Pete Beach, safety is a top priority for all visitors and staff. The historic fishing pier, known for its fishing charters and island excursion charters, takes necessary precautions to ensure that everyone enjoys their time at this beautiful destination while remaining safe.

One essential safety measure in place at Merry Pier is the availability of life vests. Life vests are provided for all guests participating in boat excursions, fishing trips, and other water-based activities. These buoyant devices are designed to keep individuals afloat in case of an emergency or accident in the water. Wearing a life vest is a crucial step in promoting safety during any water adventures.

Additionally, the staff members at Merry Pier are trained in various safety protocols and emergency response procedures. They are prepared to handle a wide range of situations, from minor injuries to more severe incidents, ensuring that visitors remain secure during their time at the pier.

Furthermore, Merry Pier's fishing charters and island excursions often adhere to strict safety guidelines, such as proper vessel maintenance and safety equipment checks. These standards help maintain a secure environment for everyone on board while exploring the waters around St. Pete Beach.

In summary, safety measures at Merry Pier, such as the provision of life vests and adherence to strict safety guidelines, contribute to a secure, enjoyable experience for all visitors. The pier's commitment to safety illustrates its dedication to delivering a memorable, worry-free experience at this popular Florida destination.

Customer Reviews

Merry Pier in St. Pete Beach has become a favorite spot for both locals and tourists alike. With an average rating of 4.5 stars on TripAdvisor, this historic fishing pier offers a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere that is perfect for family outings and fun.

Visitors of all ages have shared their positive experiences, mentioning the pier's well-maintained facilities and welcoming atmosphere. For example, one reviewer who used to visit the pier as a child was happy to find that not much has changed over the years, maintaining its charm and authenticity.

Merry Pier also offers fishing charters, island excursions, and bike and rod rentals - providing a variety of activities that can be enjoyed by the whole family. This adds to the overall appeal of the location as a destination for family fun.

Additionally, Yelp reviewers have commended the staff's friendliness and their willingness to create unique and unforgettable experiences on the water. This enthusiastic approach enhances the memorable aspect of any visit to Merry Pier.

In conclusion, the consistent and high customer reviews of Merry Pier in St. Pete Beach make it clear that this historic fishing pier is a great destination for family fun and enjoyment.

Bonus

Pass a Grille and Intercoastal Waterway

The Merry Pier, located in the historic Pass-A-Grille community of St. Pete Beach, Florida, offers a plethora of opportunities for fishing and boating enthusiasts. Situated along the Intercoastal Waterway, it is a world-famous destination that combines the charm of Old-Florida with modern amenities such as a friendly store, boat excursions, and a fresh fish market.

Visitors to the Merry Pier can expect to find a diverse selection of fish species in the area, including flounder, snapper, snook, redfish, and mackerel. The pier's location between the Gulf of Mexico and the Intercoastal Waterway provides an attractive variety of fishing spots, suitable for both beginners and experienced anglers. In addition to fishing, visitors can also enjoy bird watching, dolphin watching, and shelling; thanks to the expansive ecosystem of Pass-A-Grille and the nearby Shell Key Preserve.

Boat excursions are an integral part of the Merry Pier experience, as they allow guests to explore the pristine waters of the Intercoastal Waterway and the Gulf of Mexico. Shell Key Shuttle offers daily trips to the stunning Shell Key Preserve, where visitors can indulge in shelling and wildlife observation. For those interested in offshore adventures, the Offshore Hustler provides private deep-sea fishing charters in the Gulf of Mexico.

Located across from the Seahorse Restaurant, the Merry Pier is also an entertaining spot to visit during the early evening hours when fishermen return with their daily catch. Watching the fish cleaning process and the gathering of seabirds for scraps is a unique experience, especially for children.

In summary, the Merry Pier at Pass-A-Grille provides a unique blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and exciting recreational opportunities, making it an ideal destination for visitors exploring the Intercoastal Waterway along Florida's Gulf Coast.

Shell Collecting

Merry Pier, located in St. Pete Beach, Florida, is an excellent destination for shell collecting enthusiasts. From this pier, visitors can take the Shell Key Shuttle to Shell Key, a pristine island known for its diverse and abundant shells.

Before embarking on your shell collecting adventure, it's essential to come prepared with a shell bag. This bag will allow you to store your precious finds securely and protect them from damage during your trip. It's also crucial to familiarize yourself with any local regulations or restrictions on shell collecting to ensure that you are engaging in this activity responsibly and safely.

Once you arrive at Shell Key, you can expect to find a wide variety of shells. Many visitors have reported finding beautiful and unique specimens such as conches, whelks, and scallops. In addition, some lucky collectors may even come across the highly coveted sand dollar or colorful coral fragments.

While you're exploring the island, be sure to keep an eye out for fascinating marine life, such as pelicans and dolphins, which are known to frequent the area. Keep in mind that collecting live shells is not recommended, so be sure to leave any live mollusks in their natural habitat.

For those who prefer a guided experience, Merry Pier also offers Small Group 2 Hour Dolphin Cruise with Snorkeling to Shell Key, where a knowledgeable guide can lead you to prime shell collecting spots while informing you about the local ecosystem and marine life.

In conclusion, Merry Pier in St. Pete Beach showcases the beauty and variety of Florida's coastal wildlife and offers visitors an unforgettable shell collecting experience. With its stunning shells and picturesque surroundings, this destination is sure to delight all who venture to its shores.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of fish can you catch at Merry Pier?

At Merry Pier, you can expect to catch a variety of fish including flounder, snapper, snook, redfish, mackerel, and many others¹.

Are there any fees for fishing at Merry Pier?

Specific fishing fees at Merry Pier are not mentioned in the available search results. However, you may find more information by visiting the official website or by calling them at 727-360-1400.

What amenities are available at Merry Pier?

Merry Pier offers a range of amenities, such as a bait and tackle shop, fishing charters, island excursion charters, and fresh seafood for sale². They also provide bike and rod rentals for visitors³.

How does the Merry Pier fishing report look?

Unfortunately, there are no specific fishing reports available in the search results. However, you can always contact Merry Pier directly or check their website for the latest updates and information about daily catch.

What are some popular nearby attractions?

Merry Pier is located in Pass-A-Grille, St. Pete Beach, which is home to several other attractions. Some popular ones include the Pass-A-Grille Beach, St. Pete Beach, and Fort De Soto Park⁴. With a variety of activities to choose from, you're sure to have a great time exploring the area.

What events take place at Merry Pier on weekends?

Search results do not provide specific information about events taking place at Merry Pier on weekends. However, you can always keep up-to-date on events by visiting the Merry Pier website or contacting them directly.

Footnotes

1. Merry Pier - Pass-A-Grille Fishing, Boating and Fish Market ↩

2. Merry Pier FAQ (St. Pete Beach) - Tripadvisor ↩

3. Merry Pier (St. Pete Beach) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go ↩

4. MERRY PIER (St. Pete Beach) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go ↩