Current live bait availability
About this shop
The Skyway Bait Shop, located right on the decks of the Skyway Fishing Pier State Park, offers anglers ultimate convenience with 24/7 access to fishing supplies on both the North and South piers. Because you can drive and park right next to your fishing spot, the shop serves as a quick stop for rod rentals, tackle, snacks, ice, and drinks. Both locations operate year-round, and your park entry fee conveniently covers your saltwater fishing license for the day, though visitors should note that structural limits currently restrict access past the bait shops.
For anglers looking to land a catch, the shops carry a variety of rigging essentials and consistently stock live shrimp, which are the primary live bait option available on the piers. Alongside their live shrimp, they offer a reliable selection of frozen baits—such as squid, threadfins, and cigar minnows—as well as artificial lures tailored for the species running through Tampa Bay. While prices on the pier run slightly higher than standard mainland tackle warehouses, the unmatched convenience of buying fresh bait directly over the water makes it the go-to choice for local fishermen.