The Ft. Pickens Jetties is one of the most popular shore diving sites in the Florida Panhandle. This site is easily accessible from the north seawall steps west of the fishing pier. This site is one of the main SCUBA training dive sites in the area. This aquatic preserve holds a great deal of marine life including Grouper, Snapper, Flounder, Guitarfish, Sheepshead, Red Drum, Stargazer, Porcupine Puffer Fish, and many more. The rocks also serve as a nursery habitat for many species of tropical fish. Gobies, Blennies, Damselfish, Jawfish, and more are prominent residents.
Although considered a relatively easy dive, the site is subject to strong currents during tide changes. Conditions are usually best one hour before to one hour after the peak high tide.
Tide Predicitons – Fort McRee Breakwater Station
Helpful Hints:
- Dive Flag and Float use is Required By Law
- Dive Knife or Line Cutter
- Gloves recommended
- Always Dive With a Buddy
- Beware of Jellyfish (seasonal)
- NO SPEARFISHING ALLOWED on Gulf Islands National Seashore
