You'll see a wide diversity of LA's population, especially recent immigrants, fishing on Santa Monica Pier for recreation and food. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about fishing from the pier.

Do you need a fishing license to fish from the Santa Monica pier?

This is the most common question about fishing on the pier. The answer to that is no. You do NOT need a fishing license. You can fish from any public pier in California without a fishing license.

If you fish from the beach or a boat, then you will need a permit.

More on Fishing Permit Requirements in Los Angeles

Can I rent a fishing pole to fish off the Santa Monica Pier?

Yes! There is a bait and tackle shop at the far end of the pier where you can rent a fishing pole. Hours vary seasonally. Pier Bait & Tackle (310) 576-2014.

What kind of fish can I catch at the Santa Monica Pier?

According to Pierfishing.com, you might catch the occasional 22-37" halibut, but "More common than halibut are white croaker (tom cod), queenfish (herring), sardines, walleye surfperch, salema, sargo, scorpionfish (sculpin), kelp bass (calico bass), sand bass, Pacific mackerel, jack mackerel (Spanish mackerel), and bonito (on live bait or bubbles with a feather). Occasionally, barracuda, white seabass or even yellowtail will show up - most often out at the end of the pier in deeper water."

That information may be a little out of date or vary throughout the year. For specific advice on fishing the pier during your visit, check with the guys at Pier Bait and Tackle to see what's biting.

Can You Eat the Fish You Catch at Santa Monica Pier?

If you're thinking about eating the fish caught at Santa Monica Pier, the California Office of Environmental Health Hazards keeps a list of Fish Safe to Eat from Santa Monica Bay and along the coast.

There may be signs posted on the pier listing fish that are NOT safe to eat due to mercury and other contaminants.