Harris Vacations Staff Writer | June 23, 2024
Imagine casting a line into the ocean waters of the Gulf of Mexico, guided by an expert captain of one of the best Gulf Shores fishing charters. Whether you’re a seasoned fisherman or a novice eager to learn and cast your first line, you’ll be happy to see many of the fishing charters cater to all skill levels and preferences in Gulf Shores.
In this guide, we’ll provide a list to help you plan your next angling adventure and all the information you need to come prepared.
Get ready to experience prized catches like marlin and tuna, and make the most of your fishing trip by booking a stay with Harris Vacations today.
Photo Credit: Captainess_travels
Gulf Shores, Alabama, offers a variety of fishing spots to meet your preferences. For example, the beach located at the Gulf State Park Pier is ideal if you like surf fishing, as it provides easy access to the shoreline to cast your line directly into the surf. Some common species you can expect to catch include:
Inshore fishing is another option. If you prefer a quiet or relaxed fishing experience, these calm, shallow waters will give you this ambiance. The back bays and estuaries around Little Lagoon and Bon Secour Bay are filled with:
Photo Credit: Mark Winfrey
There’s also venturing deeper into the Gulf of Mexico for a deep-sea fishing trip to target larger species, including:
For anglers seeking a little bit of convenience and accessible fishing, the Gulf Shores is filled with public piers with great facilities and opportunities to catch a variety of fish. However, check to see if you require a saltwater or freshwater license before fishing in Gulf Shores, and you have the option to purchase them online with the Alabama Department of Conservation & Natural Resources.
Photo Credit: blandas71
You can fish on the public beaches of Gulf Shores. However, Alabama residents and non-residents between 16 and 65 will need a fishing license or permit. For those fishing in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach waters, you’ll need a saltwater license.
Owing to the Gulf Shores’ great weather, conditions, and diversity of catch, the area hosts a few notable fishing tournaments each year, including:
Depending on the season, you can catch fish like black drum, grouper, mullet, vermillion snapper, blackfin, yellowfin, sheepshead, Spanish mackerel, cobia, hard and soft-shell crab, red snapper, flounder, Atlantic croaker, and/or amberjack. However, there are better times than others to find these according to the season.
Gulf Shores offers some of the best fishing charters for inshore and offshore fishing with expert guides and top-notch equipment. In addition, there is an exception to the fishing license rule – won’t require the license when taking a trip with these charters as it’s covered under the operator’s license.
Photo Credit: Lee Reese
Dauphin Island (D.I) Reef Monster offers inshore and offshore fishing charters and sightseeing trips. Anglers will commonly catch speckled trout, redfish, and tripletail during an inshore fishing trip using different techniques, like drift fishing and jigging. For those interested in deep-sea fishing, the Alabama Gulf Coast has bigger fish like amberjack, marlins, and snapper species like red, gray, and vermillion. All trips include licenses, bait, and ice.
Photo Credit: BILD LLC
With 15 years of experience, this is one of the best Gulf Shores fishing charters (it’s even in the name), offering family-friendly fishing experiences. Anglers can hop on the Miss Brianna suited for groups of up to 13 people. The boat is equipped with a shower, microwave, refrigerator, and freezer, and the licenses and bait are included. Fishing trips include half-day to full-day trips. Common catch includes Spanish mackerel, king mackerel, and bonita.
Gulf Shores Fishing Charters also offers fun-filled kids’ fishing experiences, with Captain Bobby providing guidance and assistance with baits and catching fish.
Photo Credit: Robert Pernell
With locations in Fort Morgan, Gulf Shores, and Orange Beach, FinAtics offers anglers various locations from where they can launch with experienced guides and captains inside some of the charter boats.
You’ll have the chance to explore the waters in and around Dauphin Island and surrounding rivers and opt for your ideal fishing program. They provide Dauphin Island inshore fishing and private boat tours, fly fishing, and offshore fishing trips.
Photo Credit: Brett Carlson
Sunrise Charters offers inshore trips, many of which take place during sunrise hours. Owner Todd Brice uses his over ten years of experience to guide anglers to some of the best fishing spots in the area on a Shearwater Bay Boat equipped with live wells and an ice box.
You can opt for private charters of 2-hour or 4-hour fishing trips for two people, making it ideal to have one-on-one time with the expertise of the captain and your fishing partner. Depending on the season, you’ll be able to commonly catch red snappers, redfish, flounder, silver sea trout, bluefish, and mackerel.
Photo Credit: Purisimo
Shallow Stalkers Bowfishing and Fishing Charters offers a variety of trips that not only include fishing and bow fishing trips but also eco tours and sunset cruises.
With bow fishing, an archery-like method of fishing using bows and arrows, you can expect to target some species in shallow waters, including Atlantic stingrays, flounder, mullet, sheepshead, and black drum. During a fishing charter, you’ll explore different areas of the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach to catch various species.
Photo Credit: Fabien Monteil
Distraction Charters is one of the most popular family fishing adventures you’ll find in the area, and perfect for first-time anglers. They offer deep sea fishing trips with a variety of hour trips ranging from 4 up to 10 hours.
Captain Troy Frady also offers trolling fishing and light tackle fishing, and he’s big on fish conservation. You’ll be able to do a bit of catch-and-release while keeping what you wish for your dinner.
Photo Credit: Sandra Cunningham
Setting up to hop into your first Gulf Shores fishing charter can be a wholesome experience, and a little preparation ensures everything goes smoothly. Here are a few tips for first-timers:
During your Gulf Shore fishing experience, it’s important to have a clear understanding of the fishing regulations and licensing requirements to make sure you have a smooth and legal angling experience. For those casting lines in saltwater, you’ll need a saltwater fishing license, which covers fishing from shorelines, piers, bridges, and boats. The same principle applies to freshwater license, which covers rivers, lakes, and streams within Gulf Shores.
You can easily apply for a fishing license online at the Alabama Department of Conservation & Natural Resources, or you can visit local retailers or tackle shops.
For those opting to go on one of the Gulf Shores fishing charters, the saltwater license is often waived as the charter captain typically holds a valid charter boat license that covers all passengers onboard. Before you book with a fishing charter, ensure the license is covered.
Even though fishing is available year-round, there are restrictions and open seasons for responsible fishing practices. Certain species, like red snapper and amberjack, are subject to specific regulations regarding catch limits, size restrictions, and seasonal closures to promote sustainable fish populations.
Anglers should consult the latest fishing regulations provided by the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources to stay informed about these guidelines. It’ll ensure anglers enjoy a rewarding fishing experience while contributing to the conservation efforts aimed at preserving Gulf Shores’ marine life.
Photo Credit: BearFotos
If you need to stock up on bait or need a specific piece of equipment, there are multiple tackle shops in Gulf Shores to visit:
The Gulf Shores fishing charters offer a variety of angling experiences, whether you prefer inshore or offshore fishing. You’ll have expert guidance, top-notch equipment, and access to the best fishing spots.
Unwind and recharge at the end of your day at one of our Harris Vacations properties, making your experience that much more enjoyable. Book your stay today!
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