PIER FISHING:
For increased success on the pier, we suggest you be mindful of the following:
1). Learn which bugs are naturally found at your pier and ask around for what bait has been working lately,
 
2). Unless you've planned on catching "the big one", you can rely on a 20-40lb line (or less) with a short rod (6-7ft) if you plan on just dropping the bait OR you can use a longer rod (9-10ft) if you plan on casting your line far out,
 
3). For a sandy bottom, we suggest a pointy, pyramid-shaped sinker; unlike a bowling pin-shaped sinker for a rocky bottom,
 
4). Use a bucket to keep fish you plan on eating along with a fillet knife so you can clean your catch right there on the spot (most public piers usually have a place for you to clean your fish),
 
5). Use a drop net (to bring up your catch and release it, if you so desire) or a gaff (you'll have to keep it and eat it, at this point) and pliers to remove the bait and hook,
 
6). Lastly, bring polarized sunglasses and a picnic chair so you can maximize your relaxation time.
 
WHAT TO DO:
You may want to observe the following suggestions:
1). In the winter, it's best to do pier fishing around noonday; unlike summertime when pier fishing is best at early morning or at sunset,
 
2). Be mindful of tide times as larger fish like to follow smaller fish as the tides change,
 
3). More than likely, the end of the pier will have the biggest fish, and

4). If birds are circling overhead, try to throw your line in that direction.