Howard Gilman Memorial Park Fishing Pier | St. Marys GA

Howard Gilman Memorial Park Fishing Pier — St. Marys, Georgia | 912 Coastal

Howard Gilman Memorial Park, also known as St. Marys Waterfront Park, offers public fishing access along the St. Marys River in downtown St. Marys, Georgia. With waterfront walkways, public docks, boat launches, and nearby downtown amenities, it's a convenient stop for anglers looking to fish without taking a boat out.

Fishing Pier Information

Location: 100 West St. Marys Street, St. Marys, GA 31558

Waterway: St. Marys River

Fishing Access: Public waterfront fishing pier and dock facilities

Launch Lanes: Two public boat ramps are listed at the waterfront park.

Ramp Surface: Confirm on-site; the facility includes paved access.

Boat Size: Confirm current ramp and dock restrictions with the City of St. Marys.

Dock: Public docks and floating docking facilities are available.

Park Hours: Listed as 7:00 AM–10:00 PM daily. Check for temporary closures or event restrictions.

Restrooms: Available at the park.

Parking: Public parking is available on-site.

Parking Fees: General park admission is listed as free. Check for any event-related parking restrictions.

Accessibility: The Georgia DNR lists an accessible fishing location, accessible parking, paved footpaths, and wheelchair fishing cutouts.

Nonmotorized Launch: Kayak launching is available in the waterfront area; confirm the designated launch point before use.

Nearby Amenities: Downtown shops, restaurants, waterfront walkways, and the Cumberland Island ferry are nearby.

What Can You Catch Here?

The St. Marys River is a tidal waterway, so fishing conditions change with the tide, season, and salinity. Depending on conditions, anglers may encounter redfish, spotted seatrout, flounder, black drum, sheepshead, and other estuarine species.

These are potential catches, not guaranteed species at the pier. Check current local fishing reports and regulations before your trip.

Fishing Tips

• Watch the tide: Moving water can carry baitfish past docks and other structure.

• Start with shrimp: Live or fresh shrimp is a versatile option for many coastal species.

• Use suitable tackle: A medium-action spinning outfit and a basic bottom rig are a practical starting point.

• Keep your setup compact: This is a shared waterfront with other visitors, anglers, and boaters.

• Check conditions: Wind, current, water clarity, and seasonal changes affect fishing success.

Boat and Dock Etiquette

The waterfront is also a working access point for boaters. When a boat approaches a shared dock to tie off, reel in your fishing line and move it clear of the boat's path. Give the operator room to maneuver and secure the vessel safely.

Boats need room to dock. Be respectful of boaters, keep lines out of their approach, and follow posted rules. Fishing access does not mean blocking a landing or tie-up area.

Fishing Licenses and Regulations

Anglers should check current Georgia fishing license requirements, saltwater permit requirements, size limits, and creel limits before fishing. Official information is available from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.

Plan Your Next Fishing Trip

Howard Gilman Memorial Park is a useful starting point for exploring the St. Marys River and the surrounding Camden County waterfront.

Continue exploring 912 Coastal:

• Fishing 101: Learn how tides, structure, bait, and seasonal patterns affect inshore fishing.

• Boat Ramp 101: Learn the basics of launching, retrieving, and sharing boat ramps safely.

• St. Marys Boat Ramp Guide: Find nearby boat-launch access and facilities.

Get outside, respect the water, and make your next coastal fishing trip count with 912 Coastal.