SUNSHINE SKYWAY BRIDGE — A portion of the South Skyway Fishing Pier State Park has been closed indefinitely after state officials discovered structural issues during a recent inspection.
What You Need To Know
The fishing pier is part of the original Sunshine Skyway bridge built in 1954
A recent inspection by the Florida Department of Transportation found structural issues – the Department of Environmental Protection shut a portion of the pier down
Fisherman say they want it repaired or replaced
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection shut down access beyond the bait shop on Monday, following a report from the Florida Department of Transportation that identified safety concerns.
The closure means vehicle and pedestrian traffic is now restricted to the northern section of the pier.
The Skyway Fishing Pier is one of the most popular fishing spots in the Tampa Bay area, drawing locals and tourists year-round. For many, it’s more than just a place to fish — it is part of their daily routine.
“I fish this bridge religiously. This is really my therapy,” said Corbin Newman, who has been coming to the pier since he was five years old. “I just hate that they’re shutting this whole section down — all the good fishing is down there.”
Allen Young, who works at the bait shop on the pier, said the structure, which was part of the original Sunshine Skyway Bridge built in 1954, has long been a favorite for birdwatchers, tourists, and anglers alike.
“There’s really something for everybody,” Young said. “Whether you’re birdwatching or just a tourist checking it out.”
While parts of the pier remain open, regulars say it’s not the same without full access. Newman and others hope the state will find a way to repair the damaged section and reopen it soon. “If the state doesn’t want to fix it, maybe the people can pitch in,” Newman said.