Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park is a 4.5-acre fishing pier located on the Gulf of Mexico in Gulfport, Mississippi. The pier is named after Bill Burton, a local fisherman who was instrumental in its construction. The pier is a popular spot for fishing, crabbing, and birdwatching. It also offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and the surrounding coastline.
The pier is made of concrete and is 1,540 feet long. It has a lighted walkway, restrooms, and a bait shop. The pier is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Fishing licenses are required to fish from the pier.
Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park is a great place to enjoy the outdoors and experience the beauty of the Gulf of Mexico. The pier is also a popular spot for special events, such as fishing tournaments and concerts.
Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park
Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park is a popular destination for fishing, crabbing, and birdwatching on the Gulf of Mexico. Here are 11 key aspects that make this park so special:
- Location: Gulfport, Mississippi
- Size: 4.5 acres
- Length: 1,540 feet
- Features: Lighted walkway, restrooms, bait shop
- Hours: Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week
- Activities: Fishing, crabbing, birdwatching, special events
- Fees: Fishing licenses required
- Named after: Bill Burton, a local fisherman
- Opened: 1994
- Managed by: Mississippi Department of Marine Resources
- Fun fact: The pier is a popular spot for dolphin watching.
Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park is a great place to enjoy the outdoors and experience the beauty of the Gulf of Mexico. The pier is also a popular spot for special events, such as fishing tournaments and concerts. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, be sure to add this park to your list of must-visit destinations.
Location
Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park is located in Gulfport, Mississippi, on the Gulf of Mexico. This location is important for several reasons:
- Gulfport is a popular tourist destination. The city is home to several beaches, casinos, and other attractions. This makes it a great place to visit for a vacation or a day trip.
- The Gulf of Mexico is a great place to fish. The waters are home to a variety of fish species, including redfish, speckled trout, and flounder. The pier provides easy access to these fish, making it a great place to go fishing.
- The pier is a popular spot for birdwatching. The park is home to a variety of bird species, including pelicans, herons, and egrets. The pier provides a great vantage point for viewing these birds.
Overall, the location of Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park is ideal for fishing, crabbing, birdwatching, and other outdoor activities. The park is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
Size
Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park is 4.5 acres in size. This may not seem like a large area, but it is actually quite large for a fishing pier. The size of the park allows it to accommodate a variety of amenities, including a lighted walkway, restrooms, and a bait shop. It also provides ample space for fishing, crabbing, and birdwatching.
The size of the park also contributes to its popularity. The pier is long enough to provide access to deep water, which is ideal for fishing. It is also wide enough to accommodate a large number of people without feeling crowded. This makes it a great place to visit for a day of fishing or crabbing with family and friends.
Overall, the size of Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park is an important factor in its popularity and success. The park’s 4.5 acres provide ample space for a variety of amenities and activities, making it a great place to enjoy the outdoors.
Length
Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park is home to a 1,540-foot-long fishing pier. This makes it one of the longest fishing piers in the state of Mississippi. The length of the pier is an important factor in its popularity and success.
The length of the pier provides several benefits. First, it allows anglers to fish in deeper water. This is important because many fish species are found in deeper water, especially during the summer months. Second, the length of the pier provides more space for anglers to fish. This reduces crowding and makes it easier to find a good spot to fish. Third, the length of the pier provides a great vantage point for viewing the Gulf of Mexico and the surrounding coastline.
Overall, the length of the fishing pier at Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park is an important factor in its popularity and success. The length of the pier provides several benefits for anglers, including access to deeper water, more space to fish, and a great vantage point for viewing the Gulf of Mexico.
Features
Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park offers a variety of features that make it a great place to fish, crab, and birdwatch. These features include a lighted walkway, restrooms, and a bait shop.
- Lighted walkway: The lighted walkway makes it safe and easy to walk to and from the pier, even at night. This is especially important for anglers who are fishing at night or early in the morning.
- Restrooms: The restrooms are clean and well-maintained. This is important for anglers who are spending a long day on the pier.
- Bait shop: The bait shop sells a variety of live bait, including shrimp, minnows, and crabs. This is convenient for anglers who do not want to bring their own bait.
These features make Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park a great place to enjoy the outdoors and experience the beauty of the Gulf of Mexico. Whether you are a local or a visitor, be sure to add this park to your list of must-visit destinations.
Hours
Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This is a major advantage for anglers who want to fish at their convenience. Many other fishing piers have limited hours, which can make it difficult to find a time to fish. However, Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park is always open, so anglers can fish whenever they want.
The 24/7 hours of operation are especially beneficial for anglers who like to fish at night. Night fishing can be very productive, especially for certain species of fish. However, many fishing piers are closed at night, which makes it difficult for anglers to take advantage of this opportunity. Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park is one of the few fishing piers in the area that is open 24 hours a day, so anglers can fish at night without having to worry about the pier being closed.
Overall, the 24/7 hours of operation at Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park is a major advantage for anglers. This allows anglers to fish at their convenience, including at night when many other fishing piers are closed. As a result, Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park is a popular destination for anglers of all skill levels.
Activities
Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, including fishing, crabbing, birdwatching, and special events.
Fishing is one of the most popular activities at the park. The pier provides easy access to deep water, which is home to a variety of fish species. Anglers can fish from the pier or from their own boats. Crabbing is another popular activity at the park. The waters around the pier are home to a variety of crab species, including blue crabs and stone crabs.
Birdwatching is also a popular activity at the park. The park is home to a variety of bird species, including pelicans, herons, and egrets. The pier provides a great vantage point for viewing these birds.
In addition to these activities, the park also hosts a variety of special events throughout the year. These events include fishing tournaments, concerts, and festivals. These events are a great way to enjoy the park and meet other people who enjoy the outdoors.
The activities available at Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park make it a great place to visit for people of all ages. Whether you’re looking to fish, crab, birdwatch, or simply enjoy the outdoors, the park has something to offer everyone.
Fees
To fish from Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park, anglers are required to have a valid fishing license. This requirement is in place to help manage the fishery and ensure that fish populations remain healthy for future generations. Fishing licenses can be purchased online or at any local sporting goods store.
- Conservation: Fishing licenses help to fund conservation efforts that protect fish populations and their habitats. This includes activities such as stocking fish, improving water quality, and enforcing fishing regulations.
- Management: Fishing licenses also help to provide data that can be used to manage fish populations. This data includes information on the number and size of fish caught, as well as the location and time of year that they were caught. This information can be used to set fishing regulations that protect fish populations and ensure that they remain healthy.
- Education: Fishing licenses also help to fund educational programs that teach people about fishing and conservation. These programs can help to promote responsible fishing practices and encourage people to get involved in conservation efforts.
- Enforcement: Fishing licenses also help to fund enforcement of fishing regulations. This ensures that anglers are following the rules and that fish populations are protected.
By requiring anglers to have a fishing license, Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park is helping to protect fish populations and ensure that they remain healthy for future generations. Fishing licenses are a valuable tool for conservation, management, education, and enforcement.
Named after
Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park is named after Bill Burton, a local fisherman who was instrumental in its construction. Burton was a passionate advocate for the pier, and he worked tirelessly to raise funds and support for its construction. The pier was finally completed in 1994, and it has since become a popular destination for fishing, crabbing, and birdwatching.
- Local Icon: Bill Burton was a well-known and respected figure in the Gulfport community. He was known for his love of fishing and his dedication to the local community. Naming the pier after Burton is a fitting tribute to his legacy.
- Community Involvement: Burton’s involvement in the construction of the pier shows the power of community involvement. He was able to rally support for the pier from local businesses, organizations, and individuals. This support was essential to the pier’s success.
- Economic Impact: The pier has had a positive economic impact on the Gulfport community. It has created jobs and attracted tourists to the area. The pier is also a popular spot for special events, which further boosts the local economy.
- Environmental Stewardship: Burton was a strong advocate for environmental stewardship. He believed that the pier could be a place where people could enjoy the beauty of the Gulf of Mexico while also learning about the importance of conservation. The pier is now a popular spot for educational programs about marine life and conservation.
The story of Bill Burton and the pier that bears his name is a reminder of the power of one person to make a difference. Burton’s passion and dedication helped to create a place that has brought joy to countless people and will continue to do so for generations to come.
Opened
The opening of Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park in 1994 marked a significant milestone in the history of Gulfport, Mississippi. The pier quickly became a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, providing a place to fish, crab, birdwatch, and enjoy the beauty of the Gulf of Mexico.
- Community Gathering Place: Since its opening, the pier has become a beloved gathering place for the Gulfport community. People from all walks of life come to the pier to fish, relax, and enjoy the scenery. The pier has also hosted numerous special events over the years, including fishing tournaments, concerts, and festivals.
- Economic Driver: The pier has had a positive impact on the Gulfport economy. It has created jobs and attracted tourists to the area. The pier is also a popular spot for special events, which further boosts the local economy.
- Environmental Stewardship: The pier is located in a sensitive coastal environment. The park staff is committed to protecting the environment and educating visitors about the importance of conservation. The pier is a popular spot for educational programs about marine life and conservation.
- Legacy of Bill Burton: The pier is named after Bill Burton, a local fisherman who was instrumental in its construction. Burton was a passionate advocate for the pier, and he worked tirelessly to raise funds and support for its construction. The pier is a fitting tribute to his legacy.
The opening of Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park in 1994 has had a profound impact on the Gulfport community. The pier has become a beloved gathering place, a driver of economic growth, a steward of the environment, and a lasting legacy to Bill Burton. The pier is a valuable asset to the community and will continue to be enjoyed by generations to come.
Managed by
The Mississippi Department of Marine Resources (MDMR) plays a vital role in the management and operation of Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park. The MDMR is responsible for a wide range of activities related to the park, including:
- Habitat conservation and restoration: The MDMR works to protect and restore the marine habitats that are essential for the fish and wildlife that inhabit the park. This includes planting marsh grasses, restoring oyster reefs, and creating artificial reefs.
- Fisheries management: The MDMR sets and enforces fishing regulations to ensure that fish populations remain healthy and sustainable. This includes setting catch limits, size limits, and gear restrictions.
- Law enforcement: The MDMR’s law enforcement officers patrol the park to ensure that visitors arefishing regulations and other park rules. They also investigate and enforce violations of state and federal laws.
- Education and outreach: The MDMR provides educational programs and outreach to teach visitors about the importance of marine conservation. This includes hosting field trips, leading guided tours, and developing educational materials.
The MDMR’s management of Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park helps to ensure that the park is a safe, enjoyable, and sustainable place for visitors to enjoy the outdoors. The MDMR’s work also helps to protect the marine resources of the Gulf of Mexico for future generations.
Fun fact
Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park is known for its excellent fishing and crabbing opportunities, but it’s also a great place to go dolphin watching. The pier is located in an area where dolphins are often seen feeding and playing in the waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
- Proximity to dolphin habitats: The pier is located near several dolphin habitats, including the Mississippi Sound and the Gulf of Mexico. These areas are home to a variety of fish species that dolphins prey on, making them a popular feeding ground for dolphins.
- Elevated vantage point: The pier provides an elevated vantage point that makes it easy to spot dolphins in the water. Dolphins are often seen swimming, jumping, and playing near the pier, making them a popular attraction for visitors.
- Abundant fish population: The waters around the pier are home to a variety of fish species, which attracts dolphins to the area. Dolphins are known to follow schools of fish, so the presence of a large fish population increases the chances of seeing dolphins near the pier.
- Calm waters: The waters around the pier are typically calm, which makes it easier to spot dolphins. Dolphins are more likely to be seen in calm waters than in rough or choppy waters.
Dolphin watching is a popular activity at Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park. Visitors can often see dolphins from the pier, and there are also several boat tours that offer dolphin watching excursions.
FAQs About Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park
Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park, located in Gulfport, Mississippi, is a popular destination for fishing, crabbing, birdwatching, and more. In this FAQ, we provide brief answers to some of the commonly asked questions about the park.
Question 1: What are the hours of operation for the park?
The park is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Question 2: Are there any fees associated with visiting the park?
There is no entrance fee to visit the park. However, fishing licenses are required for fishing, and crabbing licenses are required for crabbing.
Question 3: What types of fish can be caught at the pier?
A variety of fish species can be caught at the pier, including speckled trout, redfish, flounder, and sheepshead.
Question 4: Are there any bait shops or tackle shops near the park?
Yes, there is a bait and tackle shop located right on the pier.
Question 5: Are there any restrooms available at the park?
Yes, there are clean and well-maintained restrooms located at the park.
Question 6: Is the park wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the park is wheelchair accessible, and there is a ramp leading to the pier.
For more information about Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park, please visit the park’s official website.
This concludes our FAQ section on Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park. If you have any additional questions, please feel free to leave a comment below.
Happy fishing!
Tips for Enjoying Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park
Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park is a great place to enjoy the outdoors and experience the beauty of the Gulf of Mexico. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your visit:
Tip 1: Arrive early to secure a good spot.
The pier can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. If you want to secure a good spot for fishing or crabbing, arrive early. You can also reserve a spot in advance by calling the park office.
Tip 2: Bring your own bait and tackle.
While there is a bait and tackle shop on the pier, it is always a good idea to bring your own. This will save you money and ensure that you have the bait and tackle that you need.
Tip 3: Be prepared for the weather.
The weather on the Gulf Coast can be unpredictable. Be sure to check the forecast before you go and dress accordingly. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and rain gear, just in case.
Tip 4: Be respectful of other anglers and park visitors.
Follow the park rules and regulations, and be courteous to other visitors. Don’t crowd other anglers, and be mindful of noise levels.
Tip 5: Take your time and enjoy the scenery.
The pier is a great place to relax and enjoy the beautiful views of the Gulf of Mexico. Take your time to soak in the scenery, and don’t be afraid to take a break from fishing to just enjoy the moment.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable visit to Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park.
Conclusion
Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park is a popular destination for fishing, crabbing, birdwatching, and more. The pier is located in Gulfport, Mississippi, and offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. The park is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and there is no entrance fee. Fishing licenses are required for fishing, and crabbing licenses are required for crabbing.
The pier is a great place to enjoy the outdoors and experience the beauty of the Gulf of Mexico. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, be sure to add this park to your list of must-visit destinations.
