Lion's Field Park Pier: A Short, Protected Saltwater Pier in Tacoma

Lion's Field Park Pier is a small public fishing pier on Commencement Bay in Tacoma, Washington, located at the end of Lion's Field Park near the Port of Tacoma. The pier is roughly 300 feet long and sits in shallow, protected water that attracts bottom-feeding fish and seasonal visitors. It is free to fish and requires no special permit beyond a standard Washington saltwater fishing license.

The pier draws anglers year-round but is most productive in spring and fall when water temperatures shift and baitfish move through the bay. Because it is short and sits in a working port area, it is less crowded than larger piers like Dash Point or Ruston Way, making it a practical choice for anglers who want to avoid lines and still catch fish.

Key Takeaways

  • Lion's Field Park Pier requires a Washington saltwater fishing license, which you can purchase online or at any sporting goods retailer before you fish.
  • The pier is open year-round and free to fish, with best conditions in spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) when flounder, rockfish, and perch are most active.
  • Parking is available at Lion's Field Park, and the pier is accessible from the park entrance near the Port of Tacoma industrial area.
  • Bring small tackle — the pier is short and sits in shallow water, so heavy rigs and long casts are not necessary.

What Fish You Can Catch at Lion's Field Park Pier

Starry flounder are the most reliable catch at this pier, especially from late winter through spring. They feed on the bottom in the shallow bay water and respond well to live or fresh bait. Flounder here typically run 12 to 16 inches, though larger fish are possible.

Rockfish — primarily black rockfish and quillback rockfish — move through Commencement Bay seasonally and can be caught around pier pilings and structure. Spring and early summer are peak months. Pile perch and shiner perch are also present and provide steady action, especially in fall. These smaller fish are good for anglers new to saltwater fishing or those fishing with children.

Lingcod and cabezon are less common but do appear, particularly in deeper water off the pier end. Check current Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) regulations before you fish, as size and bag limits vary by species and can change seasonally.

Best Seasons and Tides for Lion's Field Park Pier

Spring (April through May) is the most productive season. Water temperatures warm, flounder become active, and rockfish begin moving into shallower bay water. Morning tides and slack water (the period between incoming and outgoing tide) are usually best, though the pier fishes reasonably well throughout the day.

Fall (September through October) is the second-best window. Perch move into the shallows to spawn, and flounder feed heavily before winter. Summer can be slow, particularly in July and August when water warms and fish move to deeper, cooler water. Winter is possible but less productive — water is cold, and fish are less active, though some anglers still catch flounder and rockfish on mild days.

Tide matters less at this pier than at larger exposed piers because Commencement Bay is protected and shallow. Fish feed throughout most tidal cycles, but slack water and the first hour of an incoming tide often produce better results. Check tide tables for Tacoma before you go.

Tackle and Bait for Lion's Field Park Pier

Keep tackle simple and light. A 6- to 7-foot medium-action spinning rod with 10- to 15-pound monofilament or braided line is ideal. The pier is short, water is shallow, and fish here are not large enough to require heavy gear. Avoid long casts — most fish are caught within 30 feet of the pier.

For flounder, use a simple two-hook bottom rig baited with live or fresh herring, anchovy, or shrimp. A small sinker (1/4 to 1/2 ounce) is enough to reach bottom. For perch and rockfish, small jigs (1/8 to 1/4 ounce) tipped with shrimp or small baitfish work well. Live bait is more effective than artificial lures at this pier, so plan to bring fresh herring or anchovy from a local tackle shop.

A small tackle box, a net, and a cooler are all you need. The pier has no amenities, so bring water and snacks if you plan to fish for more than an hour or two.

Access, Parking, and Facilities at Lion's Field Park Pier

Lion's Field Park Pier is located at the end of Lion's Field Park, accessed via East D Street near the Port of Tacoma. Parking is available in the park lot, though spaces can fill on weekends and mild-weather days. The pier is a short walk from the parking area.

The pier itself has no shelter, restrooms, or concessions. There is no bait shop on-site, so purchase bait before you arrive at a local tackle retailer in Tacoma. The pier is open to the public during daylight hours year-round, though it is wise to confirm current access by calling Tacoma Parks and Recreation before an early-morning or evening trip.

The pier is not wheelchair-accessible, and the surface can be slippery when wet. Wear shoes with good grip, and use caution in rain or after high tides.

Regulations and Licensing for Lion's Field Park Pier

You must have a valid Washington saltwater fishing license to fish at Lion's Field Park Pier. Licenses are sold online through the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website, at sporting goods stores, and at some grocery stores. A one-day license costs less than a full-year license and is a good option if you are visiting from out of state.

Bag and size limits vary by species and change seasonally. Flounder have a daily limit of five fish with a minimum size of 12 inches. Rockfish limits and sizes depend on the specific species and current regulations — check the WDFW website or call their hotline before you fish. Perch have generous limits and no minimum size, making them a good target for beginners.

The pier is in a working port area, so stay clear of active loading zones and commercial traffic. Respect posted signs and do not fish from areas marked off-limits.

Nearby Alternatives and Related Fishing in Tacoma

If Lion's Field Park Pier is crowded or not producing, Ruston Way Pier is a larger, more developed public pier about 2 miles away with more amenities and often more fish. Dash Point State Park near Tacoma also has pier and beach access for saltwater fishing. Both are worth exploring if you want more options in the area.

Commencement Bay itself supports small-boat fishing for flounder, rockfish, and lingcod. If you have access to a boat or can charter one, bay fishing often produces better results than pier fishing, particularly in summer when deeper water is more productive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a license to fish Lion's Field Park Pier?

Yes, you need a Washington saltwater fishing license. You can purchase a one-day, three-day, or annual license online through the WDFW website or at sporting goods retailers. The license is inexpensive and required for anyone 16 and older.

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

Early morning and late afternoon are often productive, but this pier fishes reasonably well throughout the day. Slack water and the first hour of an incoming tide tend to produce better results than other tidal periods. Avoid midday in summer when water warms and fish move deeper.

Can I bring children to fish at Lion's Field Park Pier?

Yes. The pier is safe for children, and perch are abundant and easy to catch, making them ideal for young anglers. The pier is short and not crowded, so it is a good place to teach basic saltwater fishing. Children under 16 do not need a license.

Is there bait available at the pier?

No. There is no bait shop at Lion's Field Park Pier. Purchase fresh herring, anchovy, or shrimp at a local tackle shop in Tacoma before you arrive. Bring a cooler to keep bait fresh.

What should I do if the pier is closed or inaccessible?

Call Tacoma Parks and Recreation to confirm current access before you go. If the pier is closed, Ruston Way Pier and Dash Point State Park are nearby alternatives with public saltwater fishing access.