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Gulf Shores Vacation and Activities

6 Best Fishing Charters in the Gulf Shores

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.

Where to Fish in the Gulf Shores

Gulf State Park Pier: Surf Fishing

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:

  • Pompano
  • Redfish
  • Whiting

Back Bays and Estuaries: Inshore Fishing

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:

  • Flounder
  • Speckled Trout
  • Redfish

Gulf of Mexico: Offshore Fishing

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:

  • Snapper
  • Grouper
  • Marlin

Piers Around Alabama’s Gulf Shores

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.

  • Gulf State Park Pier: 20800 E Beach Blvd., Gulf Shores
  • Little Lagoon Pass Fishing Pier: 1660 W Beach Blvd, Gulf Shores
  • Cotton Bayou Public Pier: Located at the intersection of Highway 182 and Highway 161, Gulf Shores
  • Orange Beach Waterfront Park Pier: 26389 Canal Road, Orange Beach

Public Beaches in Alabama

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.

Seasonal Fishing Tournaments in Gulf Shores

Owing to the Gulf Shores’ great weather, conditions, and diversity of catch, the area hosts a few notable fishing tournaments each year, including:

Fishing Seasons by Species

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.

  • Amberjack: Offshore; year-round with a high peak between May and September. However, recreational fishing for amberjacks has restrictions.
  • Atlantic sailfish: Offshore between May and October, with a high peak between July and August.
  • Mahi mahi: Offshore; between June and October, with a high peak in June.
  • Redfish: Inshore; year-round
  • Red snapper: both nearshore and offshore; however, seasons and quotas change, and there are bag limits.
  • Flounder: inshore and nearshore between April and October.

Best Gulf Shores Fishing Charters

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.

Dauphin Island Reef Monster

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.

Gulf Shores Fishing Charters

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.

Finatics Gulf Shores Fishing Charters

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.

Sunrise Charters

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.

Shallow Stalkers Bowfishing & Fishing Charters

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.

Distraction Charters

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.

What to Know Before You Go

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:

  • Dress Accordingly: wear light, breathable clothing, a hat, non-slip shoes, and use sun protection.
  • Pack Medications: Sickness medication if you’re prone to seasickness.
  • Safety First: Follow the captain’s instructions, such as arriving early to meet the crew and familiarize yourself with the boat.
  • Gear Check: Enquire with operators as to what gear they supply. They will all have some gear on hand, but pack accordingly if you have a favorite lure!

Fishing Licenses

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.

Fish Restrictions

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.

Tackle Shops

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:

Stay and Fish in Gulf Shores

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!

Summer Tourism Recap | Things To Do In Gulf Shores

The Harris Rental Vacation team wants every guest that visits our rental properties to have an exceptional time. We strive to make the reservation process simple. We also work to make sure that our renters have a great vacation experience off the property as well. 

When looking for things to do in Gulf Shores, there are plenty of options! We always encourage our guests at Harris Vacation Rentals to let us know the experiences they are looking for so we can recommend activities, restaurants, and any services that are needed.

Here are a few places and activities that our Harris Vacation Rentals team enjoyed this summer at Gulf Shores. 

Dining at The Perch at Gulf State Park 

If you’re looking for an exceptional dining experience, we suggest The Perch at Gulf State Park. Patrons can enjoy locally-sourced food, cocktails, sunsets, and stunning views of the surrounding beaches. Here’s what someone on our team said about their experience:

“The views are amazing! I enjoy this restaurant because it has a beautiful view, great food, and a fantastic wine selection.”

A Peaceful Vibe at Acme Oyster House 

Vacations can be really exciting. But we think it’s good to slow down and take advantage of a slower pace. The Acme Oyster House opened in 2014 and is a popular spot for fresh seafood and cajun classics. They also have great outdoor seating. Here’s what one team member had to say::

“I like the atmosphere and sitting on the back deck. Very peaceful.”

Enjoying the Nature at Gulf State Park 

With two miles of beaches and white sand, Gulf State Park is an excellent staple for those drawn to the outdoors. From hiking and biking to kayaking and canoeing, visitors can participate in a wide variety of activities, which makes it a great attraction for families. This park is a highlight for our team:

“I enjoy walking the Gulf State Park trails. Bike riding in the Gulf State Park. You can rent a bike for free if you do not have your own. Enjoying music at Meyer Park is always fun! Bring your chair and the pup.”

Having a Blast at the Beach 

While there is a lot to do in Gulf Shores, nothing beats the fun and entertainment a day at the beach has to offer. Take a look at what our team had to say about spending time on the beach:

“I enjoy spending time on the beach with friends and family. It is a good way to unwind from a busy week and enjoy the serenity and peace away from all the stress that life throws at us.”

“I enjoy going to one of the many beautiful beaches and collecting seashells. The beach always clears/calms the soul!”

“I enjoy relaxing at the beach, shopping, and playing mini-golf with friends and family. I would recommend taking one of the boat tours or fishing charters as it is always a fun experience.”

We want to make your vacation as enjoyable and stress-free as possible. So, when you’re booking a vacation with us, fill out this form and receive personalized recommendations tailored just for you from our team. 

Visit https://ourgulfshoresvacation.com/concierge to get started.

 

 

 

One-Stop Shop for Property Management In Gulf Shores, Alabama

You’ve done it! You’ve invested in a property on the Alabama Gulf Coast. You may plan to enjoy your property part of the year and offer it for others to enjoy when you aren’t there, or you may decide to offer it throughout the seasons as a full-time rental property. 

But have you found that your savvy business opportunity has turned into a challenge and you need help managing your property? 

From the upkeep to marketing, maintaining a vacation rental property can be a full-time commitment. Fortunately, you don’t have to handle this on your own. 

Since 1983, the Harris Vacation Rentals team has helped owners take the stress out of property management. We have developed into a one-stop-shop for those seeking a hands-off approach to managing their rental properties. 

Check out the many ways that we have helped vacation property owners maximize rental revenue while maintaining their investment properties to the highest standard.

Revenue Optimization and Management 

We don’t believe that making a profit from a rental property has to be seasonal. With comfortable temperatures throughout the year, the Gulf Shores climate makes it possible for your vacation rentals to host a variety of vacationers throughout the year. 

Our team works to capitalize on demand all year round — not exclusively during the summer months. We have a dedicated revenue management team that will maximize the value of your rental home to ensure optimal revenue and occupancy, year over year. 

Reservations and Concierge Services to Keep Guests Coming Back 

Your guests deserve a five-star experience and we are equipped to make that happen. 

Our reservations staff are sales-driven and local area experts who call, email, and text every guest to ensure all their needs are met as they book their vacation — whether online, over the phone, or even on Facebook Messenger. 

Our goal is to ensure that we follow up on each lead, turning them into guests that we can walk through the reservation process. 

We also have a committed guest relations team that ensures guests receive personalized recommendations of activities and services that fit their needs. None of our team are commission-based. We strive to meet team wide goals together in sales and five star reviews. 

Marketing Your Property for Maximum Occupancy 

Are you wondering how to reach the masses and find a targeted audience for your rentals? Well, the Harris Rental Team can also take this task off your hands. Our team can ensure your rental makes it onto the highest-yield travel sites to increase the chances of your property being seen and booked. 

We also use a blend of drone footage, photographs, and virtual tours to give viewers an interactive and immersive view of the rental space. This method is proven to drive the decision to book. 

To increase your listing’s visibility, our team also uses both social media marketing and SEO strategies to ensure your property can be seen on the most widely-used social media channels and Google. 

High-Quality Upkeep and Risk Mitigation 

You can trust that guests will enter a clean and exceptionally-kept property. Our pre-arrival team checks each home before guest arrival to ensure that everything within the house is in working order and that the space adheres to our high standards. 

Also, we are fully equipped to maintain the cleanliness of your space as we have an in-house housekeeping staff that can clean and maintain the property, so you don’t have to. 

Lastly, we want you and your guests to feel that the property is secure. New door codes are generated for each guest, and the home is outfitted with window and door sensors to alert us of any potential breach. Wi-Fi networks are secure, and we have a dedicated tech support team to help residents with any tech issues they encounter. 

We want you to get the most out of your rental property. Allow the Harris Vacation Rentals team to support you and ensure you get the return on investment that you seek.

Savvy Travelers Are Using Vacation Rentals to Save Big!

Savvy Travelers Are Using Vacation Rentals to Save Big!

With prices seeming to be on the rise at the fuel pump and everywhere you look, it’s understandable that many of us are looking for ways to cut costs. But canceling that annual Gulf Shores vacation doesn’t have to be one of the things you give up to save money.   By taking advantage of some cost-saving tips, you can still enjoy that amazing beach getaway…and you won’t miss that chance to make life-long memories on the Alabama coast.

Many savvy travelers are using vacation rentals to keep costs down and offset the rising fuel prices. Booking your stay in a vacation rental, like those that Harris Vacation Rentals offers, allows you to take advantage of a couple of key things that can save you hundreds. With the options and amenities a vacation rental provides, you can actually save money while still making those priceless memories that all great vacations are made of.  Check out these ways your fellow travelers are using vacation rentals to save money and still enjoy an amazing family getaway.

Book Direct to Save on Fees 

Have you ever wondered why the final cost of your reservation is so much more than the per-night price? Platforms like AirBNB and VRBO charge service fees for the “convenience” of booking rentals through their site, and they don’t show you those fees until the end of the process. Some booking sites have service fees as high as 20-30 percent! 

On the other hand, when you book directly with Harris Vacation Rentals, you eliminate much of the added cost. By cutting out the middleman, you can secure the best rate and book your rental without paying costly fees.  Sometimes these savings can add up to hundreds of dollars!  That’s more money in your pocket for fun activities, dining, and souvenirs!  And more than enough to offset that uptick in gas prices.

Dine In to Save on Meals

Everyone enjoys eating at a new restaurant, but doing so for every meal can be expensive. Booking a vacation rental property means you’ll have a private kitchen where you can prepare your own meals…for less money. Even if you dine out for dinner, choosing to have breakfast and lunch in your property can add up to big savings by the end of your trip. 

Our kitchens are fully stocked with all of the needed appliances, cookware, plates and utensils, and almost everything you’ll need to cook with ease. You’ll also have pantry space for storing snacks, drinks, and other daily items you may need. When grocery shopping, focus on cost-effective items that are easy to prepare and can feed your whole group for a day on the beach – things like bread and deli meat for sandwiches, cereal, fruit, and assorted chips.

Pack Lighter to Save on Baggage Fees

If you plan to fly, you know packing extra outfits can make a big difference in your baggage fees. Luckily, you can pack lighter when staying in your vacation rental that includes laundry facilities.  Instead of packing a big suitcase with clothes for every occasion, you can pack just a few items and wash them during your stay. You may even be able to skip checking your bag altogether for a fee-free flight! Laundry may be the last thing you want to do on vacation, but it will really pay off in the long run with some savings!

Use Amenities to Save on Activities

Activities and attractions can really add up, but the right vacation rental can even help you save money on family fun! In addition to those fun beach days, many of our properties have great amenities like swimming pools,  gaming areas, nearby playgrounds, parks, and things that can take the place of more expensive activities. Some rentals are located in places that offer great outdoor opportunities for activities like fishing, shopping, paddle boarding, biking, and more. 

With so much to do around the Gulf Shores area, there are likely some must-do activities or attractions on your trip itinerary – and that’s totally fine! Taking advantage of rental amenities on other days means you’ll have more to spend on the adventures you really want to do.

So don’t fret about things this season or cross that unforgettable beach vacation off the list.  You can still have the getaway of your dreams to Gulf Shores or Orange Beach.  Just plan smart, like so many savvy travelers are doing, and head over to Harris Vacation Rentals to pick out your perfect place in the sand!

The Benefits of Pet-Friendly Property Rentals In Gulf Coast

If you want to make memories with your whole family, Harris Vacation Rentals wants to help. There are many beach locations and accommodations that will not allow you to bring along pets, but we specialize in helping pet owners find the right place to stay. When you browse our rentals, we designate all of our pet-friendly rentals with a paw print. Generally speaking, our pet-friendly rentals can accommodate up to two pets. Our Fort Morgan rentals are especially popular with pet owners because dogs are welcome on the beach and at many local attractions when leashed. If you are a pet owner, consider the many benefits of choosing a pet-friendly property. 

  • Keep your Family Together–Pets are part of the family. Bringing along your pet will help you create lasting memories! You will be able to fully embrace your time away without worrying about your pet being stuck at home or at a kennel. Also, having the comfort of your pet will also make your rental truly feel more like a home away from home. 
  • Soothe your Pet’s Anxiety–Leaving your pet for a trip could negatively impact them if they suffer from anxiety. Instead of boarding them for a week or hiring a pet sitter, choosing a pet-friendly place allows you to bring your pet along to keep everyone comfortable. You and your pet will have greater peace of mind. 
  • Accommodate your Support Animal–Whether you are dependent on a service animal or simply find comfort with having your pet along, a pet-friendly rental allows you to have the support you need. We are committed to providing the accommodations our guests need to live, feel safe, and stay supported. Making space for your furry companions is just one way we want to serve your family. 
  • Embrace the Fun–From chasing frisbees to running in the waves, pets can bring many smiles and laughs for your whole family. When you pick a pet-friendly rental, you are giving your family the joy and fun of having your family pet along to make memories.

If you need help finding the best pet-friendly rental to accommodate your family and pets, reach out to Harris Vacation Rentals today! We will help you find the best fit for your family’s trip to the Gulf Coast. 

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