What You'll Find at Anastasia State Park

Anastasia State Park sits just south of St. Augustine on a barrier island between the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean. The park spans over 1,500 acres and holds saltwater fishing opportunities across multiple environments: tidal marshes, shallow bays, mangrove shorelines, and open ocean access. Most anglers fish the Intracoastal side or the shallow flats that connect to it, where redfish, spotted seatrout, and flounder move with the tides.

The park has a boat ramp on the Intracoastal Waterway side, a fishing pier that extends into the bay, and beach access for surf fishing. The terrain is low and flat—typical of Florida's coastal barrier islands—with maritime hammock forest and salt marsh dominating the interior. You can fish from shore, wade the shallows, or launch a boat depending on what species you're after and how much tide movement you want to work with.

Key Takeaways

  • Redfish and spotted seatrout are the primary targets in the Intracoastal and bay flats, with best fishing on incoming tides and around structure like mangrove edges.
  • The park's boat ramp provides access to the Intracoastal Waterway, where you can reach deeper channels and tidal creeks within a short run.
  • Flounder fishing works year-round in deeper holes and channel edges, particularly during slack tide when they're less likely to move.
  • The fishing pier is free to use and requires no boat, making it a solid option for anglers without their own vessel or those testing the water before committing to a full day.
  • Parking and park entry fees apply; check current rates with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection before you visit.

Tidal Flats and Redfish Patterns

The shallow flats surrounding Anastasia hold redfish year-round, but they're most predictable during spring and fall when water temperatures sit in the 70s. Redfish follow the tide into the flats to feed on small crustaceans and baitfish, then retreat to deeper channels as the water drops. An incoming tide two hours before high water is usually your best window—the fish are moving, feeding, and less spooky than they are in water so shallow they're nearly beached.

Work the mangrove shorelines and the edges where marsh grass meets open water. Redfish often cruise these transitions looking for prey pushed out by current. Sight-casting with a fly rod or spinning rod works if you can spot tails or wakes, but blind casting along structure is equally productive. Use small topwater plugs, soft plastics in the 3- to 4-inch range, or live shrimp if you want to keep things simple. The water clarity varies with wind and recent rain, so adjust your approach—clear water calls for smaller flies and longer casts; stained water lets you fish closer and louder.

Spotted Seatrout in Deeper Channels

Spotted seatrout prefer slightly deeper water than redfish and hold in the main Intracoastal channel and the tidal creeks that branch off it. They're structure hunters—they stack up around dock pilings, oyster bars, and the deeper edges of grass beds. Early morning and late afternoon are peak times, but seatrout will feed throughout the day if you find the right depth and structure.

Live mullet or pinfish work well, as do soft plastics in natural colors—whites, grays, and pale greens that match the local forage. Cast near structure and work your bait or lure slowly; seatrout often follow a meal before committing to the strike. The Intracoastal channel deepens as you move north toward St. Augustine, so if the shallower flats aren't producing, running a mile or two up the waterway often puts you on better numbers.

Flounder and Bottom Structure

Flounder are ambush predators that sit on the bottom and wait for prey to pass overhead. They concentrate in deeper holes, channel edges, and anywhere the bottom transitions from sand to mud or shell. The park's deeper channels hold flounder year-round, though they're most active in cooler months when they're feeding hard before winter.

Drift or anchor over known holes and fish live baitfish on the bottom—mullet, pinfish, or small mackerel work best. Flounder will also take soft plastics worked slowly along the bottom, but live bait produces more consistent results. Slack tide is often better than moving water because flounder are less likely to chase a meal when current is pushing hard. Early morning and dusk are productive, but flounder bite throughout the day if you're fishing the right depth.

Boat Ramp Access and Launch Logistics

The boat ramp at Anastasia State Park is located on the Intracoastal Waterway side of the island and is the main entry point for anglers launching their own vessels. The ramp is concrete, well-maintained, and typically has enough space for several boats to launch and retrieve. Parking is available nearby, though spaces fill quickly on weekends and during peak fishing seasons.

From the ramp, you can head north toward St. Augustine's inlet or south into the shallower flats and creeks that define the park's fishing grounds. The Intracoastal is well-marked and straightforward to navigate, but pay attention to tide and current—outgoing tide can push you south faster than you expect, and incoming tide can create confused water where creeks meet the main channel. Most productive fishing is within a 15-minute run of the ramp, so fuel consumption is minimal for a day trip.

Fishing the Pier and Shore Access

The fishing pier extends into the bay and is open to the public without a boat. It's a solid option if you want to fish without launching, or if you're new to the area and want to get a feel for what's biting before committing to a full day on the water. Spotted seatrout, redfish, and flounder all move through the pier's vicinity, and the pier itself provides shade and a stable platform for casting.

The beach on the Atlantic side allows surf fishing, though the water is typically rougher and less productive than the bay side. Pompano, permit, and jack crevalle move through the surf, especially during fall and spring migrations. Bring heavier tackle and expect to cast farther than you would in the bay. The beach is also open for swimming and general recreation, so fishing pressure can be higher during warm months.

Seasonal Patterns and Best Times to Fish

Spring (March through May) brings warming water and active feeding across all species. Redfish move shallow, seatrout bite consistently, and flounder begin their transition to deeper summer holes. Water temperatures range from the low 60s to the mid-70s, and tidal movement is predictable.

Summer (June through August) pushes water temperatures into the 80s, and fish move deeper or seek cooler tidal creeks. Early morning and late evening are most productive; midday fishing is slow. Fall (September through November) reverses the summer pattern—cooling water brings fish back to the shallows, and feeding activity increases as they prepare for winter. Winter (December through February) slows the bite overall, but flounder and seatrout remain catchable in deeper channels, and redfish still move the flats on warmer days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Florida fishing license to fish at Anastasia State Park?

Yes, a valid Florida saltwater fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older. You can purchase a license online through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission website, at the park, or at most bait and tackle shops in St. Augustine. Licenses are available as short-term options (3 days, 7 days) or annual permits.

What's the best tide for fishing the flats?

Incoming tide two hours before high water is usually most productive because fish are actively feeding and moving into shallow areas. Outgoing tide can work, but fish often retreat to deeper channels as water drops. Slack tide—the brief period between tide changes—is best for flounder because they're less likely to chase prey when current is moving hard.

Can I fish at night?

The park has specific hours; check with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection or call the park directly before planning a night trip. Some areas may be closed after dark, though the Intracoastal channel is often accessible for night fishing if you have proper lighting and navigation equipment.

What tackle should I bring for redfish and seatrout?

A 7- to 8-foot spinning rod with 15- to 20-pound braided line works well for both species. Bring a mix of soft plastics (3 to 4 inches), small topwater plugs, and live shrimp or mullet. For flounder, heavier tackle and live baitfish on the bottom are more effective than artificials.

Is there a bait and tackle shop near the park?

St. Augustine has several shops within 10 to 15 minutes of the park. They stock live bait, tackle, and current information about what's biting. Calling ahead to ask about recent catches and conditions can save you time and help you focus your fishing strategy.