7 Best Fishing Spots in Tampa Bay

Edward Medard Conservation Park

Located south of Plant City, the 700-acre reservoir at Edward Medard Conservation Park is a perfect place to launch your line and anticipate a fish nibbles at the bait. The huge reservoir is also used for canoeing and boating with tons of wildlife spotting.

If you need a break from fishing, hop on the 3-mile hiking path for an excellent bird watching experience and to explore more of the area! If you’re visiting with a group, the entrance fee is $2 per vehicle with up to 8 people per vehicle. The boat launch fee is $5, and any camping and rentals access is extra.

Fort Desoto

Though many locals head to Fort Desoto for its exceptional beaches, bike trails, and historic forts, they also have great fishing spots in Tampa Bay. Fort Desoto has two fishing piers to cast your line out.

Each pier has a food and bait concession to feed you and the fishes’ stomachs. While you’re out on one of the piers, we bet you’ll spot a few dolphins or kite surfers on a windy day!

Sunshine Skyway Fishing Pier

Talk about views while you’re fishing! The Sunshine Skyway Fishing Pier is parallel to the Sunshine Skyway Bridge and is the world’s longest fishing pier! You can definitely expect to catch a big fish out here.

Bishops Harbor Road

A little bit of a hidden gem, but worth the find, Bishops Harbor Road is convenient fishing access in the Terra Ceia Preserve State Park.

Within the preserve, you can also channel your inner adventurous side by going kayaking, hiking, and discovering other wildlife. Since this fishing spot is more low-key, you can expect a tranquil and quiet day of fishing!

Lake Tarpon

Lake Tarpon is the largest freshwater lake in Pinellas County with a surface area of 2,500-acres. Fun fact, Lake Tarpon is rated one of the Top 10 bass lakes in the state of Florida by FWC fisheries biologists!

Be sure to cast your line along the shoreline for a higher chance of catching largemouth bass. Head out to fish on your boat or kayak, or enjoy one of their piers.

Pier 60 at Clearwater Beach

If you’re looking for a more family-friendly fishing trip, head over to Pier 60 at Clearwater Beach. Enjoy the views of the white sand beach while waiting for the bomber to submerge.

Pier 60 is a 1,080-foot fishing pier with plenty of space to find your perfect fishing spot. The bait house on the pier is great for picking up fishing tackle, souvenirs, drinks and snacks, rental equipment, bait, and more. Pier 60 is also known for being one of the best spots to catch a sunset in Tampa Bay!

Lake Seminole Park

There are so many fun outdoor activities to do at Lake Seminole Park and fishing is high up on the list. Lake Seminole Park is a designated wildlife habitat and sanctuary.

You can expect to see all sorts of Florida creatures from alligators, snakes, eagles, and more. The fishing is great here as the park is quiet and transports you to a super relaxing world away from the hustle and bustle.