Past and future of Anna Maria Island's Rod & Reel Pier

This collection of stories explores the past and future of Anna Maria's iconic Rod & Reel Pier.

The landmark pier's bar and restaurant, fishing and nature viewing opportunities were beloved by visitors and locals alike for decades.

Then Hurricanes Helene and Milton devastated the pier in the 2024 hurricane season, leaving behind only remnants.

Oliver Lemke, the owner, initiated a campaign to finance the pier's reconstruction. He's also working to open a new restaurant location in Holmes Beach while planning the pier's revival.

Meanwhile, residents and officials express hope for the pier's return, recognizing its iconic status on the island.

NO. 1: A LANDMARK RESTAURANT WITH ‘OLD FLORIDA CHARM’ DESTROYED BY HURRICANE MILTON

Last year's hurricane season was too much for the pier to handle. | Published October 10, 2024 | Read Full Story by Jason Dill

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Visitors packed the Rod & Reel Pier in August to fish and enjoy the sunshine. By Tiffany Tompkins

NO. 2: ROD & REEL PIER OVER THE YEARS: SEE ANNA MARIA LANDMARK BEFORE AND AFTER HURRICANES

Here’s a look back at the iconic Anna Maria Island landmark. | Published October 14, 2024 | Read Full Story by Ryan Ballogg

The Rod and Reel Pier on Anna Maria Island after Hurricane Milton on Oct. 15, 2024. By Tiffany Tompkins

NO. 3: CAN ROD & REEL PIER REBUILD AFTER HURRICANE DESTRUCTION? WHAT OFFICIALS SAY

The Rod & Reel's owner and city leaders discuss the pier's possible return. | Published May 23, 2025 | Read Full Story by Jason Dill

The summary above was drafted with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists in our News division. All stories listed were reported, written and edited by McClatchy journalists.