What North T-Pier Offers

North T-Pier is a working commercial pier in Morro Bay where public fishing is allowed during daylight hours. It extends into Morro Bay proper, away from the main harbor traffic, and holds a mix of species depending on season and tide. The pier is shorter and less crowded than the main Morro Bay Pier, which makes it a solid choice if you want to avoid the weekend crush but still want reliable structure and bait fish activity.

The pier sits in water that ranges from 15 to 25 feet deep at the end, with sandy and rocky bottom. You'll find rockfish, cabezon, lingcod, and occasional halibut in cooler months. Mackerel and bonito show up in summer and early fall. Perch and croaker are year-round residents in the shallower sections near the pilings. The pier's position means you're fishing the bay proper rather than the open ocean, so conditions are usually calmer than the main pier and swell is less of a factor.

Key Takeaways

  • North T-Pier allows public fishing during daylight hours only, and you do not need a special permit beyond a standard California fishing license.
  • Rockfish, cabezon, and lingcod are the most reliable catches, with mackerel and bonito in summer months.
  • The pier is 15 to 25 feet deep at the end, with sandy and rocky bottom that holds bait fish and structure-loving species.
  • Bring squid, anchovy, or live mackerel for rockfish; live bait or small jigs work for bonito and mackerel.
  • Parking is limited and the pier can close without notice if commercial operations require it, so call ahead during busy seasons.

When to Fish and What's Biting

Winter and spring bring the steadiest rockfish bite. December through March, you can count on cabezon and lingcod in the deeper sections, especially around dawn and dusk. Perch bite year-round in the shallower water near the pilings, and they're a good option if you're fishing with kids or want a reliable bite without waiting for the tide.

Summer shifts the action to mackerel and bonito. June through September, live mackerel or small chrome jigs will draw strikes from bonito cruising the bay. The bite is often best in early morning or late afternoon when the water is cooler. Fall can be excellent for rockfish again as water temperatures drop, and you may see halibut in September and October if conditions align.

Tide matters less on North T-Pier than on exposed ocean piers, but incoming tide generally produces better bites because bait fish move into the shallower sections. Slack tide is often slow. Overcast days and periods with light wind tend to be more productive than bright, calm days.

Tackle and Bait That Works

For rockfish and cabezon, use a simple setup: 20- to 30-pound main line, a small barrel swivel, and a 12- to 18-inch leader of 15- to 20-pound fluorocarbon. Add a small sinker (1/2 to 1 ounce) to keep bait near bottom, and a size 2 or 1/0 hook. Fresh squid is the standard bait, but anchovy and mackerel work just as well. Drop your bait to the bottom and work it slowly, raising and lowering every few seconds.

For bonito and mackerel, switch to live bait or small jigs. A 2- to 3-inch live mackerel on a 1/0 to 2/0 hook will draw strikes. If you're jigging, use a 1/4- to 1/2-ounce chrome or white jig and cast toward the deeper sections, working it with short, sharp jerks. Bonito are fast and aggressive, so expect hard runs and bring a net if you plan to keep them.

Perch fishing requires lighter tackle: 12- to 15-pound main line, small hooks (size 6 to 8), and small pieces of squid or shrimp. Fish the pilings and shallow edges, and you'll get steady action without much waiting.

Access, Parking, and Rules

North T-Pier is located on the north side of Morro Bay, accessible from Embarcadero Road. Parking is limited to a small lot near the pier entrance, and it fills quickly on weekends. Arrive early or plan to fish on weekdays if possible. The pier is open during daylight hours only; no night fishing is allowed.

You need a valid California fishing license to fish the pier. Saltwater fishing licenses are available online through the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website, at sporting goods stores, or at local bait shops in Morro Bay. The pier is a working commercial facility, so it can close without notice if loading or unloading operations are underway. Call ahead during busy seasons or if you're making a special trip.

No crabbing or net fishing is allowed on the pier. You may keep fish within legal size and bag limits for your species. Check current regulations with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife before you go, as limits and seasons change.

Gear Rental and Bait Shops

If you don't have your own tackle, several shops in Morro Bay rent rods and reels or sell complete starter setups. Virg's Landing and other local bait and tackle shops stock fresh squid, anchovy, and live mackerel. They also carry the small sinkers, swivels, and hooks you'll need. These shops are your best source for current bite reports and conditions on the day you plan to fish.

Bait prices vary, but expect to pay $5 to $10 for a small container of squid or anchovy. Live mackerel costs more but is worth it if bonito are active. The shop staff can tell you which bait is producing and what species are most active that week.

What to Bring and How to Prepare

Bring a cooler with ice if you plan to keep fish. The sun reflects hard off the water, so sunscreen and a hat are essential. Polarized sunglasses help you spot bait fish and structure. A small net makes landing fish easier and safer, especially if you're fishing alone. Bring more bait than you think you'll need—rockfish bite steadily, and you may go through a container quickly.

Wear non-slip shoes; the pier can be wet and slippery, especially in the morning. Bring a headlamp or small flashlight if you plan to fish early or late. A small tackle box with extra hooks, sinkers, and swivels will save you a trip back to the car if something breaks. Bring water and snacks—fishing piers can feel longer than they are when you're waiting for the bite.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a special permit to fish North T-Pier?

No. You need only a valid California saltwater fishing license, which you can purchase online or at any sporting goods store. The pier itself does not require a separate day-use or fishing permit.

Can I fish at night on North T-Pier?

No. The pier is open to public fishing during daylight hours only. Night fishing is not allowed.

What's the difference between North T-Pier and the main Morro Bay Pier?

North T-Pier is smaller, less crowded, and sits in calmer bay water. The main pier extends into open water and gets larger swells and more tourist traffic. Both hold fish, but North T-Pier is better if you want a quieter experience or are fishing with kids.

What size fish can I keep?

Size and bag limits vary by species and change seasonally. Rockfish have a 10-fish daily bag limit with a 12-inch minimum. Lingcod require a 24-inch minimum. Check the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website or ask at a local bait shop before you fish to confirm current rules.

Is the pier accessible if I have mobility issues?

The pier is relatively short and has a gentle slope, but there are no wheelchair ramps or accessible facilities. Call ahead to ask about current conditions and whether accommodations are available on the day you plan to visit.