Help Us Rebuild Rod and Reel Pier, Anna Maria Island

**Help Us Rebuild the Rod and Reel Pier – A Beloved Anna Maria Island Treasure, Devastated by Hurricanes Helene and Milton**

Hi everyone,

I’m Oli Lemke, the proud owner of the Rod and Reel Pier on beautiful Anna Maria Island. As many of you know, the pier has been an iconic part of this community for over 75 years—a place where locals and visitors alike come to enjoy fresh seafood, stunning Gulf views, great fishing, and a taste of “Old Florida.”

But recently, our island faced a devastating blow. Hurricane Helene hit hard, followed by Hurricane Milton, which finished what Helene had started. On a Thursday morning, I got the heartbreaking call from our manager, Adina: the pier was gone. Seeing the photo of the destruction was one of the most difficult moments of my life. I know so many of you here understand what that loss feels like. It’s not just a building—it’s a place filled with memories, history, and the spirit of Anna Maria Island.

We’re determined to rebuild the Rod and Reel Pier, but we can’t do it alone. There’s no insurance to cover the damage, no big investor to back us up. It’s just us—the community, the visitors, the people who love this place—and we need your help to bring it back.

This isn’t just about rebuilding a restaurant. It’s about restoring a piece of the island’s soul and helping our team of over 40 employees get back on their feet. The pier is more than wood and nails; it’s a gathering place for generations of families, a spot where memories are made. And we want to ensure it continues to be that special place for generations to come.

Every contribution makes a difference. To show our appreciation, we will engrave the names of those who donate $100 or more on a new wall of honor at the pier—an everlasting reminder of the community spirit that made this possible. We will use the donations to build a new restaurant and, of course, a new pier.

Please consider donating to help us rebuild. Your support, whether financial or through spreading the word, will help us make the Rod and Reel Pier stronger than ever. Together, we can bring this beloved part of Anna Maria Island back to life.

Who I am: Oli Lemke, born and raised in Germany. Blessed with a wonderful wife and 4 great kids. Fell in love with the USA as an exchange student in North Carolina in 1984. After college I became a brewmaster and founded my own brewery in Berlin.

Through all these years I kept coming back to the US to hang out with my friends or vacationing. I always had a seat back in my mind to carry my little business to the states.

Opportunity knocked at my door in November 2022 when the former owner of the Rod And Reel was ready to sell the restaurant. So finally in November 2023 the deal was closed and I became the new proud owner of the Rod and Reel Pier.

Thank you for standing with us during this difficult time. With your help, we’ll come back stronger and ensure the Rod and Reel Pier remains a treasured destination for years to come.

So long, and be strong!

Oliver Lemke & The Rod and Reel Pier Team