Fishing Tip 3: How To Build A Fishing Pier

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How does one build a fishing pier?

Before one begins to build a fishing pier, it is important to have all the necessary building permits one might need from local and state government to build a pier at the selected location.

There are three main aspects of fishing pier design to be considered when drawing up plans to build a fishing pier. First, the pier should be situated in a way that provides access. Second, it should be designed in such a way as to make fishing easier. One will also want to determine which additional amenities might be useful for the pier to enhance one’s overall fishing experience. Lastly, ensuring the foundation of the pier is built in a stable and secure manner is critical to building a safe pier.

One wants a fishing pier in an area where the fishing is good. If a spot can’t be chosen from first-hand knowledge, there are other options. Ask local fishermen for their suggestions. One can also assess the physicality of the location to determine if it is likely to be attractive to fish. In a pond or lake, large areas of vegetation, especially those that cross the waterline, are good food sources for fish. In a stream or river, there are lots of channels created by nature through rocks, undercut banks or logs. These channels are natural places for fish to congregate. One doesn’t want the pier sitting right on top of these areas, but at a proper distance from which anglers can comfortably cast their lines. Also keep in particular mind to position the pier where it would allow anglers to cast onto these types of areas that could not otherwise be reached when simply standing on shore. In addition to the fish, it is also necessary to consider how humans will access the pier.

Generally a fishing pier will not have a railing, as they often interfere with the fishing. However, should one want a railing, certain points should be considered. First, the railing should not be too high. As people are often sitting in deck chairs as they fish, make sure the railing is low enough to allow for those casts. The top board of the railing should be angled inwards to keep people from sitting on it or placing a tackle box, which could then fall easily into the water. Make sure the gaps between the slats are wide enough to keep landing the fish easy.

Probably of most importance, for the safety of those on the pier, is ensuring that the foundation is safe and secure. A pier foundation has three components: pilings, pile caps or beams, and stingers. Since the foundation is likely sitting in the water, make sure all components are properly treated so as not to be weakened by water damage.

The pilings are the poles that are physically driven into the ground. They can be either round or square, although many feel that round pilings are stronger and last longer.

Once the pilings have been driven into the ground, the pile caps should be added next. These are the boards that stretch from one piling to its opposite on the other side of the pier. They are intended to secure the pilings and provide additional stability to the foundation. The beams should not be placed at the top of the pilings, but a little further down to keep room for placing the stringers. It is recommended to secure each side of a beam to the piling with at least two bolts, which should be either galvanized or stainless.

The final part of the pier foundation is the stringers. These are the boards running lengthwise of the pier, sitting atop the beams, and coming flush to the top of the pilings. There should be one attached to either side of each length of pilings. Additional stringers should be attached between the pilings, usually at least 16 – 24 inches apart. Local building codes may require a certain minimum distance.

Indeed, professional assistance in determining the right size and types of materials, as well as detailed design, is highly advised for building a safe pier. Usually the local building permit process will ensure that such advice and details are addressed.

More Fishing Tips and How To’s

Learn how fishing lures are made
Learn how to set up a fishing pole
Learn how to string a fishing reel
Learn how to make a fishing net
Learn how to build a fishing rod holder
Learn how to tie fishing knots

Resource by E.Trio

I am an online writer and soon to be published author. I grew up in Southern California, but I currently live in the Bay Area while I work on my books. I enjoy camping and hiking with my dog Max or just relaxing on the back porch while I write. Stay tuned for my first children’s book to be released about Max.

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