We just got back from a week at PCB. The new pier is nice, but definitely creates a far different experience than the old pier. As for fishing, my only observations are that it is somewhat higher and it is alot noisier due to Pier Park. There was a band playing at Reggae J's Island Grill that could be heard clear to the end of the pier. As someone stated earlier, the pier is now more of a multi-use entertainment venue as the spectators from Pier Park clearly outnumbered the fishermen (& fisherwomen).
This isn't necessarily a bad thing but it definitely lacks the character of the old pier. This may change as it gets established, but there will always be addtional noise and bustling activity due to Pier Park.