1st Timer’s Guide to Fort Morgan State Historic Site

Many of us have wet a line or two on the shores of a neighborhood pond or a mountain stream, but there is a world of adventure to be had wrangling the ocean-borne monsters in the Gulf of Mexico! Whether it’s your first time or you are a seasoned angler, deep-sea fishing is sure to be the experience of a lifetime!

Take a break from soaking up the sun beachside and admiring those oceanfront views from the balcony of your dream beach house rental because it’s time to get out on the water!

So, what are you waiting for? The ocean awaits!

Fishing Charters

With the Gulf of Mexico right at your fingertips, Gulf Shores, Alabama is loaded with fishermen ready to share their expertise! These charters spend their days out on the water with like-minded people breathing in the ocean air and catching fish by the boatload. Safe to say, they are having an amazing time, and they will ensure you do too!

1. Island Marine Charters

• Address: 50 W Canal Dr, Gulf Shores, AL
• Website: islandmarinecharters.com

Head out with Capt. Joe on a charter boat to some of his favorite spots, both nearshore and out at sea! Offering deep sea fishing trips and inshore excursions, you can spend a few hours getting your line wet or dive right in with a day trip adventure.

This deep-sea fishing charter offers everything you need, from a fishing license to a rod, and only asks that you bring a cooler if you plan on taking your catch home. Which you should! Feed the whole family with a speckled trout or red snapper after a day of working up your appetite on the water. Island Marine Charters will even clean the fish for you before you head home!

Using only the best equipment, you will feel like you are floating on air as you sit atop the 29′ fully customized hybrid bay boat reeling in trout on your Penn & Shimano saltwater class rod.

A true family adventure, you will feel safe and secure with Capt. Joe! Bring yourself and up to three other people along for the journey. More bodies mean more fish to catch!

2. Distraction Deep Sea Fishing Charters

• Address: 27075 Marina Rd, Orange Beach, AL
• Website: distractioncharters.com

Established back in 2002, Distraction Deep Sea Fishing Charters was built on family fishing. This kid-friendly charter made it their mission to welcome families on their deep-sea adventures and are now considered one of the friendliest charters in all of Alabama!

Distraction has got you covered whether you are looking for trolling, sport fishing, light tackle fishing, or an authentic deep sea fishing experience! Offering anything from an hour trip to a full day adventure, you are sure to have the Gulf Shores fishing experience of a lifetime.

This 62’ Hatteras charter boat might have been around for a while but it’s incredibly maintained. Enjoy the ride on this gem of a boat, and rest easy knowing that there is a cabin below for when nature calls. The Hatteras can also hold up to six people making it a great choice for bigger families or a group of friends. Plus, every tour is completely private, so whether you are a group of 1 or 6, the boat is yours!

A jokester at heart, you will find yourself loving cheesy dad jokes by the time Captain Troy Frady gets you safely back to shore. Catching your first fish will just be icing on the cake at the end of the day!

3. Orange Beach Fishing Charters

• Address: 27075 Marina Road, Orange Beach, AL
• Website: fishingorangebeach.com

With deep sea fishing excursions ranging from a few hours to four days, Orange Beach Fishing Charters means business! A cooperative of experienced local fishermen run this program, and each one has built their own private reef so you can enjoy a fishing experience like none other! You will get to go out and fish in deep waters that no one else knows about with a captain and deckhand who knows everything there is to know about the Gulf.

While adventures can last up to 4 days for the die-hard fisherman, half-day trips are the most popular excursion. Get an early start with a 6 AM launch, or sleep in and meet your captain by noon. You and up to 5 other people will have the iconic 41’ Hatteras all to yourself- cabin included!

Make sure to come prepared with ocean basics like sunscreen, appropriate attire, snacks, beverages, and a cooler. Let Orange Beach Fishing Charters handle the rest!

Fishing Seasons in Gulf Shores

Gulf shore fishing is renowned all year-round but if you are hoping to catch a specific type of fish, it’s important that you know your seasons. At the end of the day, Gulf Shores is considered a year-round fisherman’s paradise so you can’t ever go wrong.

Load up the kids on summer vacation or run away from the snow come wintertime, fish will be there no matter what! Just make sure you come prepared with sunscreen and layers. An unusual but necessary combination!

Red Snapper Season: October to March

Red snapper season is from October through March. This is a winter fish, and it is more likely to be caught in the early morning or evening. In other words, if you have a certain fish in mind, learn its habits!

Winter

If you don’t care too much about what type of fish you catch, you might want to look at some other factors when determining what fishing season is right for you, like the weather! Even though the Gulf Shores sees mild winter temperatures ranging from about 65 to 45 degrees Fahrenheit, it can be even cooler out on the water!

Summer

Summer temperatures can be as high as 100 degrees Fahrenheit and tire out even the most excited of anglers. Spring and fall seem to be the sweet spot for fishing conditions, and the fish agree! These shoulder seasons bring in a variety of migratory fish searching for warm water temperatures and make catching new fish a breeze.

Types of Fish in Gulf Shores

It’s no hidden secret that Gulf Shores is home to some of the best fishing in the country and it’s because of the variety! Located right along the edge of the Gulf of Mexico, you will find a plethora of fish species here and plenty of ways to catch them. These are just a few of the fan-favorite species that await you in the water!

Red Snapper

• High Season: October through March
• Minimum Size Limit: 16 inches
• Daily Bag Limit: 2 per person.

Greater Amberjack

• High Season: April to October
• Minimum Size Limit: 34 inches
• Daily Bag Limit: 1 per person.

Yellowfin Grouper

• High Season: January to August
• Minimum Size Limit: 20 inches
• Daily Bag Limit: 4 per person.

Spanish Mackerel

• High Season: March to May
• Minimum Size Limit: None
• Daily Bag Limit: 15 per person.

Gray Triggerfish

• High Season: March to May
• Minimum Size Limit: 15 inches.
• Daily Bag Limit: 1 per person.

Redfish (Red Drum)

• High Season: Year-round
• Minimum Size Limit: 16 inches (Max 26 inches)
• Daily Bag Limit: 3 per person (1 oversized allowed)

Yellowfin Tuna

• High Season: March to July
• Minimum Size Limit: 27 inches.
• Daily Bag Limit: 3 per person

Cobia (Ling)

• High Season: March through April.
• Minimum Size Limit: 36 inches.
• Daily Bag Limit: 1 per person (Max 2 per vessel)

King Mackerel

• High Season: April through November.
• Minimum Size Limit: 24 inches.
• Daily Bag Limit: 3 per person.

Flounder

• High Season: March through November.
• Minimum Size Limit: 14 inches.
• Daily Bag Limit: 5 per person.

Speckled Trout

• High Season: Year-round
• Minimum Size Limit: 15 inches (22 inches Max)
• Daily Bag Limit: Six per person (1 oversized allowed)

Florida Pompano

• High Season: April through June
• Minimum Size Limit: 12 inches.
• Daily Bag Limit: 3 per person.

Sheepshead

• Season: December to February
• Minimum Size Limit: 12 inches.
• Daily Bag Limit: 10 per person.

Other Types of Fishing Experiences

With thousands of artificial reefs dotting the shorelines of Gulf Shores, there are plenty of fishing opportunities to be had nearshore. If deep sea fishing seems a bit too intense or you are just looking to get your line wet before committing to an all-day adventure, this oceanfront city has got you covered. Other options include:

• inshore fishing
• bottom fishing
• trolling trips

Most deep-sea charters also offer these trips, so make sure to ask the charter of your choice what excursions they have available. Let the more passionate group members head out to the deep sea while the other members of your party enjoy a more relaxed experience beachside.

Gulf Shores Fishing Rules and Regulations

While an afternoon of deep-sea fishing sounds like all fun and games, it’s important that you familiarize yourself with the Gulf Shores’ rules and regulations before heading out on the water.

If you are going out with a charter, chances are that they are going to give you the run down before getting started, but it’s always a good idea to come in with some background knowledge. Besides, you are going to be so excited to get out on the water that you might find it hard to absorb it all.

Fishing License

For starters, you absolutely must have a fishing license to go deep sea fishing in the Gulf Shores. Again, most charters will supply this for you, but you should always double check!

Size and Bag Limits

Since fishing is such a sought-after activity in this area, there are also limits on the size and bag limits. This means you can’t keep a fish too small, and you can’t keep too many fish altogether. This ensures a healthy fish population and future fun for all!

Learn more about fish species regulations at the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

Stay and Enjoy a Deep Sea Adventure in Gulf Shores

Whether you call it offshore fishing, deep sea fishing, or reef fishing, getting far out on the water will offer you the best fishing experience on Alabama’s Gulf Coast!

Prepare to add angling to your list of hobbies because once you experience life on the water, it’s hard to return back to land. Having a cozy beachfront house to come back home to definitely helps!

Tired of dreaming of white sand beaches and gentle waves? Soothe your soul in real life with a trip to Gulf Shores, Alabama. That turquoise water isn’t going to splash itself.

Explore everything the city has to offer, from Alabama beaches to sprawling forests. Swim in the ocean, fish in the nearby Lake Shelby, and indulge in Gulf Shores’ many entertainment options.

But how do you navigate it all, and where do you stay? That’s where Harris Vacations come in. We are delighted to be your go-to guide for your Gulf Shores getaway, welcoming you to our luxurious and accommodating properties. 

But how will you fill your Gulf Shore beach vacation days? Whether it’s having a hangout at some of the best beaches in the state, taking a sunset cruise accompanied by dolphins, or exploring a historic fort, we’ve got you covered!

Hike in Gulf State Park

• Address: 20115 State Park Road, Gulf Shores, AL 
• Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers

When most people picture Gulf Shores, they imagine some sunny place with beaches that are ripe for sandcastle building. The area is also full of outdoor activities, and Gulf State Park’s ecosystem is a great representation of the natural landscape with incredibly diverse nature trails to explore.

You can interact with six distinct ecosystems within the park while cruising scenic hiking trails, like the famous Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail. From there, you can dive into the freshwater of Lake Shelby or learn about all things wildlife at the esteemed Nature Center. This park also has a big beach that is perfect for water sports like paddleboarding, kayaking, and parasailing! Peruse the Activities Calendar for itinerary ideas, from pickleball and guided hikes to horseshoes and pine needle basketry. 

Get Wild at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

• Address: 20499 Oak Road East, Gulf Shores, AL 
• Best for: Families and animal lovers

Looking for animal encounters that will delight the whole family? At the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, guests can interact with over 300 animals and 199 sub-species, including over 50 primates. 

If you want an even more personal experience? An extra fee will allow you to actually pet sloths and kangaroos or even feed lettuce to the giraffes! If you didn’t catch a glimpse of any gators on the ride over, you can see them here at the zoo’s Reptile House, too! It hosts many different lizards and giant snakes as well. 

Don’t worry if you’re nervous; the zoo has a few more familiar animals at the family-friendly Contact Barn. Bring the kids and take some adorable photos as you interact with goats, sheep, donkeys, and deer! 

And once you’re done with all the animals, your inner shopper might crave a little retail therapy. Keep reading to scratch that itch!

Shop at The Wharf at Orange Beach 

• Address: 23101 Canal Road, Orange Beach, AL 
• Best for: Families, shoppers, food enthusiasts, and entertainment seekers

The Wharf at Orange Beach is home to a genuinely mind-boggling number of shops and entertainment options, but let’s start with retail. 

You’ll find everything from beachwear to jewelry there. Notable standouts include Sand and Kisses Children’s Boutique and Island Time Daiquiris. But there’s loads more! You’ll walk for hours in the shopper’s paradise at Orange Beach once you’re all tuckered out? The Wharf is home to several acclaimed restaurants, including Ginny Lane Bar and Grill, Vilaggio Grille, and the Southern Grind Coffee House, a celebrated spot for coffee and baked goods. 

In terms of entertainment, you’ve got plenty to choose from at The Wharf, from flicks at the AMC Theatre to the imaginative 18-hole mini-golf course, which, although “fun for all ages,” will have you rethinking your short game for months. Crave something different? Why not try an escape room escape room experience at Orange Beach Breakout Games? Or perhaps a boat rental to catch some panoramic views on the water. 

And when you crave something a little more relaxed? Wake up your inner history buff with the next activity on our docket! 

Dive into History at Fort Morgan 

• Address: 110 State Highway 180, Gulf Shores, AL 
• Best For: History lovers, families and introverts

Stepping into Fort Morgan feels like immersing yourself into the pages of a history book. Not a boring one, though; an exciting one, filled to the brim with tales of sword fights and epic battles. The kind of stuff that makes you say, “Wow, I can’t believe that actually happened here.”

The fort, completed in 1834, is perhaps most famous for its role in the Battle of Mobile Bay, where Union Rear Admiral David bellowed the now-historic battlecry “Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead!” And, if you didn’t know that was a real thing until now, it is, and you can visit the iconic spot where it happened. 

Admission to Fort Morgan includes a self-guided tour of the site and its museum. The latter features various exciting exhibits on weapons, uniforms, letters, and even photographs from soldiers who served at the fort. So, you’re guaranteed to leave feeling enriched. 

During your visit, you’ll be able to explore every nook and cranny of the fort’s massive structure, which is a whopping 40 million bricks firm — a true testament to the skilled masonry of the era. 

Waterville USA

• Address: 906 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores, AL 
• Best for: Families, adventure seekers, and waterpark enthusiasts

Waterpark thrills are fun for the whole family. And Waterville USA, with its 20 sprawling acres of wetness and wildness, supplies them by the tubeful.

Seriously though, this massive water park, which opened in 1986, has become one of the most iconic attractions in the area thanks to its large selection of rides and keen ability to cater to all age groups.

Thrill seekers will taste sweet exhilaration as they descend the Gold Rush’s 20-foot plummet into a lagoon that twists and turns at incredibly high speeds. Others will enjoy the much-tamer journey of The Great White. This tubing adventure takes guests of all groups past scenic waterfalls. 

And don’t worry if you’ve got friends and family who prefer to be dry at all times. You won’t have to leave them in the car. The park has plenty of water-free attractions, including a few acclaimed escape rooms.

The only downside? The park is seasonal, operating primarily during the summer months. So you won’t get a chance to visit if you’re in Gulf Shores during the wintertime. 

Fish at Gulf Shores Little Lagoon

• Address: Located west of Highway 59 on West Beach Boulevard (Highway 182), Gulf Shores, AL.
• Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts and people who love to fish

Are kayaking and fishing two of your favorite hobbies? There’s no better place to spend your time in Gulf Shores than at Little Lagoon. The 10-mile long and half-a-mile-wide body of water found on the north side of Gulf Shores is a prime spot for fishing and a downright idyllic place to dip a water vessel into.

If you love nature but want to avoid breaking a sweat, head down to the Lagoon’s pier for a leisurely stroll, where you’ll get to marvel at big-beaked brown pelicans and graceful blue herons. 

Walk a little longer, and you’ll immerse yourself in Wade Ward Nature Park, where you can catch glimpses of alligators and otters along the Alabama Coastal Birding Trail. 

You can take your time on the trail, exploring the area’s natural splendor as your more active companions tackle the challenging trails of Lagoon Park, located west of Highway 59.

Ride a Roller Coaster at The Park at OWA

• Address: 101 S Owa Blvd Ste North, Foley, AL
• Best For: Families, amusement park fans and thrill seekers

Six Flags, eat your heart out. The Park at OWA has just as many thrills, and its inviting atmosphere is guaranteed to entertain the whole family. Take your pick of thrills, from the Rollin’ Thunder coaster’s instant adrenaline rush to the Flying Carousel’s whimsical flight that gently spins you around in the air, allowing you to take in its grounds from all kinds of unique angles. 

This place truly has something for everybody. So if you want a little less blow-your-hair-back and a bit more family picture book, we highly recommend you hop abroad at the Southern Express, the park’s train ride that meanders around at a relaxing pace. It’s perfect for little ones. 

Now, back to the thrills! Did you know that the park’s Freedom Flyer attraction allows riders to control their own flight experience? It’s a whole new spin on the classic swing ride format. 

Hop Aboard the USS Alabama Battleship at Memorial Park

• Address: 2703 Battleship Parkway, Mobile, AL 36602
• Best For: Families and those seeking a more educational experience 

When you step inside the USS Alabama, a battleship with a storied past, you’ll feel like walking into the pages of a history book. Launched during a critical point of World War II, the ship played a crucial role in several notable battles across the Gilbert and Marshall Islands.

These days, the USS Alabama helps give back to the community by operating as a one-of-a-kind museum. Visitors can embark on three self-guided tours, all offering an intimate look into life at sea during the historic conflict. 

But the exhibits don’t stop there; the museum also allows guests to step into the USS Drum, the oldest World War II submarine to be made accessible to the public, and honor fallen heroes in its Aircraft Pavillion. 

Take a Dolphin Cruise

• Address: Various locations
• Best for: Families, nature enthusiasts

It’s no secret that Gulf Shores has some of the best Dolphin tours in the world. During these excursions, which many companies provide, participants are offered life-changing glimpses into the world of one of Mother Nature’s most intelligent creatures. 

A dolphin cruise gives you first-hand views of wildlife, including sea turtles and dolphins, as well as a striking contrast of sugar-white sand beaches and ultramarine-blue waters. Notable adventures include the Alabama Gulf Coast Dolphin Cruise and the Orange Beach Dolphin Eco Boat Tour. 

Enjoy Gulf Shores with Harris Vacations! 

Gulf Shores is a hodgepodge of historical, beachy, and culinary fun things to do within its bounds. The best part? You can get a taste of it all when you stay in one of Harris Vacations’ beachfront rentals — a luxurious fit for honeymooners, big groups, and family vacations alike. 

We’re ready to give you the keys to your dream vacation home in the heart of Gulf Shores and open the doors to lifelong memories.

Book your Gulf Shores vacation today!