Myrtle Beach’s New Surfside Beach Pier: A Hotspot for Fishing, Proposals, and Family Fun

Myrtle Beach Fishing Fun: The New Surfside Beach Pier

Sunny waves, feisty fishermen, and even a romantic proposal—you can find it all at the brand-new Surfside Beach Pier. Just a few weeks after its grand reopening on June 15, 2024, folks are out enjoying everything this beautiful spot has to offer, especially as the mornings in Myrtle Beach cool down slightly for the fall.

A Morning at the Pier

On September 6, 2024, the sun peeked through a mix of clouds as John Wolf, a dedicated angler, cast his net for bait. “You have to watch for sharks chasing the mullets and throw when they’re on the move,” he said, sharing his daily fishing routine with anyone willing to listen. John has been fishing at the pier since 1990—seven days a week, mind you—except during its lengthy closure due to some nasty weather damage a few years back.

After being torn apart by Hurricane Matthew in 2016, this pier has been rebuilt twice and is now taller and stronger than ever at 25 feet. Have you checked it out yet? With a span of 814 feet into the Atlantic, it’s a great place to fish, stroll, or just watch the morning tide roll in.

Bringing Back Memories

The new Surfside Beach Pier boasts 26 concrete pilings and safe lights for nesting sea turtles, making it a responsible choice for the local wildlife as well! The original pier has seen its way through many storms, tornadoes, and even hurricanes since it first popped up back in 1953. Talk about history!

While John was waiting for his bait to swim into the net, excitement in the air reached peak levels when Rick Broadway dropped down to one knee at the gazebo. With the waves crashing and dolphins playing nearby, he popped the big question to Caitlin Klein, who said yes amidst cheers from nearby onlookers. “It was worth the wait,” Rick exclaimed about his planned August proposal that got postponed due to Tropical Storm Debby.

It’s Not Just Fishing

But wait, there’s more! The pier isn’t just for fishing or romantic gestures—family-friendly fun is also in the mix. Enter Rory Prodan from Ohio, who was just learning to fish alongside his family. He excitedly recounted the steps on baiting a hook while observing the pros around him. “That man down there, he knows how to fish,” Rory said, pointing joyfully at John.

While chatting with others, it’s evident the locals and tourists alike are thrilled with the new additions to the pier. No doubt the committee overseeing the pier’s reopening has worked hard, as Mayor Robert Krouse has actively involved himself since the committee’s reinstatement in 2024. Krouse shared that ideas are brewing about potentially allowing open container policies near the pier to enhance the experience but has kept walking fees off the table for now because, let’s be honest, who wants to pay to walk?

Support Local Fishing

The weather forecast for September 13, 2024, is a comfy 84°F with some clouds rolling in, and maybe a stray shower or two. That’s perfect for fishing and enjoying one more day in the great outdoors! Locals and visitors are encouraged to come down to the pier, grab a fishing pole or just kick back with a drink and soak up the sun. John Wolf himself mentioned that he gives away the fish he catches—truly a gift from the sea!

So, whether you want to catch dinner, propose to your sweetheart, or simply enjoy a nice walk with the sound of waves crashing beneath your feet, the Surfside Beach Pier is the place to be. Myrtle Beach has a little something for everyone, and the pier’s vibrant atmosphere is certainly at the heart of that. Come join the fun and make some lasting memories this season!