The Pier and What Swims Beneath It

Ocean Springs Fishing Pier sits at the end of Washington Avenue in downtown Ocean Springs, a short drive east from Biloxi. The pier extends into the Mississippi Sound and draws both locals and visitors year-round. You can fish without a license from the pier itself — that exemption applies to public piers in Mississippi — though you still need to follow state size and bag limits for whatever species you land.

The pier is open to the public during daylight hours, and parking is available nearby. The structure is well-maintained and sees steady traffic, especially on weekends and during spring and fall when water temperatures favor active feeding. Amenities are basic: the pier has railings and is wide enough to move around, but there are no bait shops, cleaning stations, or covered areas on the pier itself. Bring what you need before you arrive.

Key Takeaways

  • You do not need a fishing license to fish from Ocean Springs Pier, but state size and bag limits still apply to all species.
  • Spanish mackerel, spotted seatrout, and mullet are the most common catches from the pier during spring and fall.
  • Summer brings heat and slower daytime fishing, but early morning and evening sessions can produce redfish and flounder.
  • Bring your own tackle, bait, and supplies — the pier has no shops or services on site.
  • Parking is free and the pier is open during daylight; arrive early on weekends to secure a good spot.

Spring and Fall: Peak Fishing Seasons

Spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) are when the pier fishes best. Water temperatures moderate, baitfish move through the sound in larger numbers, and predators follow. Spanish mackerel are reliable during these windows, especially in April and May when they migrate through. They hit small silver spoons, live mullet, and cut baitfish. Spotted seatrout also move into the shallower sound waters during spring and fall, and they respond well to live shrimp under a popping cork or to small soft plastics worked slowly along the pier pilings.

Mullet runs occur in fall, typically September through November, and they attract both anglers and larger fish. You can catch mullet on small hooks baited with shrimp or on tiny spoons, and they make excellent live bait for redfish and tarpon if you want to target those species. The pier's length gives you access to deeper water than you would have from shore, which matters when larger Spanish mackerel and occasional king mackerel move through in late fall.

Summer Fishing and Heat Considerations

Summer (June through August) is hot and the daytime bite slows considerably. Most fish move deeper or into cooler water, and the pier can be crowded with tourists who are not fishing. If you fish in summer, plan for early morning (before 8 a.m.) or evening (after 6 p.m.) sessions when water temperatures are lower and fish are more active. Flounder and redfish are your best targets during these cooler windows, and they often hold near the pier pilings where there is shade and structure.

Bring plenty of water and sun protection if you fish during the day. The pier offers no shade, and the sun reflects off the water. A hat, sunscreen, and a cooler with ice are not luxuries — they are necessities. Many summer anglers fish the pier at dawn, catch a few fish, and leave before the heat becomes oppressive.

Tackle and Bait Setup

Light to medium spinning tackle works well for most pier fishing here. A 6.5- to 7-foot rod paired with a 2500 to 3000 size reel and 10- to 15-pound braided line gives you the sensitivity to feel bites and the power to handle Spanish mackerel and redfish. Bring a variety of terminal tackle: small silver spoons (1/4 to 3/8 ounce), soft plastic shrimp and mullet imitations, and a few popping corks for rigging live bait.

Live bait is often more productive than artificials from the pier. Live mullet and live shrimp are the standards. You can catch mullet from the pier itself during fall runs and use them immediately, or bring them in a bait bucket. Live shrimp are harder to source locally — your best bet is to call ahead to bait shops in Biloxi or Ocean Springs to confirm they have fresh shrimp in stock. Frozen shrimp and cut mullet work when live bait is not available, but the bite is usually slower.

Regulations and Size Limits

Mississippi has specific size and bag limits that apply whether you are fishing from the pier, from shore, or from a boat. Spanish mackerel must be at least 12 inches long, and you can keep 15 per day. Spotted seatrout have a 12-inch minimum and a 25-fish daily bag limit. Redfish must be between 18 and 26 inches (with a slot limit that protects very large fish), and the daily limit is 5 fish. Flounder have a 12-inch minimum and a 10-fish daily limit.

These regulations change periodically, so check the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources website before you fish. The site has a current regulations guide that breaks down every species. If you are unsure whether a fish meets the size requirement, measure it against the ruler markings often painted on the pier railings, or bring a small tape measure.

Parking, Hours, and Nearby Services

The pier is located at the end of Washington Avenue in downtown Ocean Springs. Parking is free and available in a small lot adjacent to the pier entrance. During busy weekends, especially in spring and fall, arrive early to secure a spot. The pier is open during daylight hours year-round, though exact opening and closing times can shift with the season — sunrise to sunset is a safe assumption.

Downtown Ocean Springs has restaurants, shops, and a small marina nearby. If you need bait or tackle, the closest options are in Biloxi, about 15 minutes away. Plan your trip accordingly and bring everything you think you will need. The pier itself has no facilities beyond the structure itself, so use the restroom before you arrive if possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a fishing license to fish from Ocean Springs Pier?

No. Mississippi exempts public piers from the licensing requirement. You can fish from the pier without a license, but you must still follow all state size and bag limits for the species you catch.

What is the best time of day to fish the pier?

Early morning (sunrise to 9 a.m.) and evening (5 p.m. to sunset) are most productive year-round. Summer daytime fishing is slow due to heat and fish moving to deeper water. Spring and fall allow for good fishing throughout the day, though early and late hours are still more reliable.

Can I keep mullet I catch from the pier to use as live bait?

Yes. Mullet are abundant during fall runs, and you can catch them on small hooks or spoons, then use them immediately as live bait for redfish, tarpon, or larger Spanish mackerel. Bring a small bait bucket with an aerator if you plan to keep them alive for more than a few minutes.

What should I bring that is not available on the pier?

Bring all your tackle, bait, water, and sun protection. The pier has no shops, bait stands, or services. Bring a cooler with ice, a hat, sunscreen, and a small first-aid kit. If you plan to keep fish, bring a cooler for them as well.

Are there restrooms on or near the pier?

There are no restrooms on the pier itself. Downtown Ocean Springs has public facilities nearby, so use them before you head out. Some nearby restaurants and shops will allow customers to use their facilities if you ask politely.