What You'll Find at Anastasia State Park

Anastasia State Park sits on a barrier island south of St. Augustine and gives you direct access to the Intracoastal Waterway, salt marsh, and the Atlantic Ocean. The park spans over 1,600 acres and includes a mile-long beach, mangrove shoreline, and shallow tidal flats — each holds different fish depending on the season and tide. You can fish from the shore, wade into the shallows, or launch a boat to reach deeper channels where larger species move through.

The park is open year-round, and fishing is permitted in designated areas. The main draw for anglers is the combination of easy access and variety: redfish and snook hunt the marsh edges in fall and winter, tarpon cruise the deeper channels in summer, and Spanish mackerel and pompano work the ocean beach in spring and fall. The Intracoastal here is relatively narrow and sheltered, making it manageable for small boats or kayaks, though the Atlantic side can run rough in winter.

Key Takeaways

  • Anastasia State Park offers saltwater fishing in marsh, Intracoastal, and ocean environments within the same day-use area.
  • Redfish and snook are most reliable in fall and winter; tarpon and permit appear in summer months in deeper channels.
  • You need a Florida saltwater fishing license unless you hold a valid exemption, and bag limits vary by species and season.
  • The park charges a per-vehicle entrance fee and has a boat ramp, but no overnight camping — plan as a day trip or stay in nearby St. Augustine.
  • Tides and weather shift conditions rapidly; check tide tables and wind forecasts before you go, especially for the ocean beach.

Seasons and What Fish Are Present

Fall and winter (September through February) bring the most consistent action for sight-fishing. Redfish move into the shallow marsh and tidal flats as water cools, and they're visible and catchable on light tackle. Snook congregate near deeper holes and channel edges, especially around structure like mangrove roots and pilings. Water clarity is usually better in winter, which helps if you're sight-casting.

Spring (March through May) is transition time. Tarpon begin moving through the deeper Intracoastal channels in April and May, and Spanish mackerel show up on the ocean beach. Permit and bonefish are possible in the shallows, though less predictable than redfish. Water warms and clarity can drop as rain increases.

Summer (June through August) is hot and humid, but tarpon fishing peaks in the Intracoastal and deeper channels. The ocean beach produces pompano and mackerel, though afternoon thunderstorms are frequent and can shut down fishing quickly. Shallow-water fishing slows because fish move to deeper, cooler water.

Access Points and How to Fish Them

The park has one main entrance on State Road A1A, about 15 miles south of downtown St. Augustine. From the parking area, you can walk to the beach, access the Intracoastal via a short trail, or use the boat ramp if you have your own vessel. The beach is open to wading and casting, though it's best during low tide when flats expose and fish move into shallower water.

The Intracoastal shoreline is accessible by foot from the park, and this is where most sight-fishing for redfish and snook happens. The water is typically 2 to 4 feet deep, and you can wade or fish from the bank. The boat ramp is a single-lane concrete launch; it gets busy on weekends and during peak season. If you're launching a kayak or small skiff, arrive early.

The ocean beach is a mile long and open to fishing. Surf fishing for pompano and mackerel works best during the first two hours of incoming tide. The beach can be rough in winter, and swimming is not permitted during certain months due to sea turtle nesting, though fishing is still allowed.

Regulations, Licenses, and Bag Limits

You must have a Florida saltwater fishing license to fish in the park unless you meet a specific exemption — Florida residents fishing from shore with a rod and reel, or visitors under 16, do not need one. Non-resident licenses are available as a 3-day, 7-day, or annual permit through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). You can purchase them online, at the park entrance, or at most bait shops in St. Augustine.

Bag limits and size restrictions change by species and sometimes by season. Redfish have a slot limit (typically 18 to 23 inches), meaning fish outside that range must be released. Snook have a minimum size and a closed season during spawning (June through August in some areas). Tarpon cannot be kept — they must be released. Check the current FWC regulations before you fish, as rules are updated regularly and violations carry fines.

The park entrance fee is per vehicle and covers day-use only; there is no overnight camping at Anastasia. Pets are allowed in certain areas but not on the beach during nesting season.

Tides, Weather, and Best Times to Fish

Tides here run about 4 to 5 feet between high and low, and they control where fish move and how easy they are to reach. Low tide exposes the flats and makes sight-fishing possible, but fish also have fewer places to hide and may spook more easily. High tide pushes fish into the marsh and mangrove edges, where they're harder to see but more concentrated. The incoming tide (first two hours after low) is often most productive because fish are actively feeding as water rises.

Wind direction matters more than wind speed. A north or northeast wind clears the water and pushes fish toward the beach; a south or southwest wind muddies the Intracoastal and makes sight-fishing difficult. Check the forecast before you go — afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer and can make the ocean beach unsafe for wading.

Early morning (sunrise to mid-morning) is the most reliable time to fish, especially for redfish and snook. The water is calmer, light is better for sight-casting, and fish are actively feeding. Afternoon fishing is possible but slower, particularly in summer heat.

Gear and Tackle Recommendations

For redfish and snook in the shallows, bring a 7- to 8-foot medium-light spinning rod with 15- to 20-pound braid or monofilament. A 12-inch fluorocarbon leader helps in clear water. Live bait (mullet, pilchards, or shrimp) works well, as do topwater plugs and soft plastics in natural colors. Sight-fishing with a fly rod is also productive if you have the skill — 8- to 9-weight rods with intermediate or sinking lines handle the wind and distance.

For tarpon in the Intracoastal, heavier tackle is necessary: 8- to 10-weight fly rods or conventional outfits rated for 20- to 30-pound line. Tarpon are strong and can break lighter gear. Live mullet or mackerel are standard baits; fly anglers use large streamers (8 to 12 inches).

For ocean beach fishing (pompano and mackerel), a 6- to 7-foot medium spinning rod with 10- to 15-pound line is adequate. Small jigs, spoons, or live shrimp work well. Bring polarized sunglasses for sight-fishing and a hat to reduce glare off the water.

Nearby Services and Where to Stay

St. Augustine is 15 miles north and has all services: hotels, restaurants, bait shops, and tackle stores. Several shops in town rent kayaks and can provide current fishing reports. If you're staying overnight, St. Augustine offers everything from budget motels to upscale inns, and the historic district is worth exploring if you have time.

The park itself has no lodging, picnic facilities are basic, and there is no food service. Bring water, snacks, and sunscreen. The nearest gas station is on A1A a few miles north. If you're launching a boat, fill your tank before you arrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

You need a Florida saltwater fishing license unless you are a Florida resident fishing from shore with a rod and reel, or you are under 16. Non-residents can purchase a 3-day, 7-day, or annual license through the FWC or at the park entrance. The cost varies by license type.

What's the best time of year to fish here?

Fall and winter (September through February) are most consistent for redfish and snook. Spring brings tarpon and permit. Summer is hot but offers tarpon in deeper channels. Each season has different fish and conditions, so your choice depends on what species you want to target.

Can I launch my own boat at Anastasia?

Yes, there is a single-lane concrete boat ramp at the park. It gets busy on weekends and during peak season, so arrive early if possible. The ramp is suitable for small skiffs, kayaks, and center-console boats. There is no fuel dock or overnight mooring.

What should I do if I hook a tarpon?

Tarpon must be released — they cannot be kept. If you hook one, keep your rod tip up, maintain steady pressure, and be prepared for a long fight. Tarpon are acrobatic and often jump; keep your drag set so line can slip if needed. Have a net or gaff ready to land it safely for release.

Is the ocean beach safe to wade in winter?

The ocean beach can have strong currents and rough surf in winter, especially after storms. Wading is possible but requires caution. Check the forecast and water conditions before you go. The Intracoastal and marsh are calmer alternatives if the ocean is rough.