gulf shores fishing guide

When you picture your ideal beach vacation, what do you see? Are you lounging on white sand beaches, parasailing over bright blue waters, or dining at waterfront restaurants? Gulf Shores is the perfect destination for experiencing all of these activities and more. Fishing along the Gulf is an excellent way to spend a day during your trip. Savor the sunshine, hang out by the water, and have fun seeing who can reel in the biggest catch. If you’ve never fished before, or this is your first time fishing in Gulf Shores, don’t worry! We created the ultimate Gulf Shores in Alabama fishing guides. Read on to find out the best spots for fishing and some tips and tricks for fishing along the Gulf. Then, check out all of our family-friendly vacation rentals and get ready to book your vacation!

Look No Further for Your Gulf Shores in Alabama Fishing Guides

Where to Fish

Gulf State Park

The Alabama Gulf Coast is a great spot for avid anglers. The Gulf State Park Fishing Pier, in the heart of Gulf State Park, is perhaps the best place for fishing in the state. Hurricane Ivan destroyed the old pier in 2004, but the rebuilt and revamped pier is better than ever before. The new pier is wheelchair accessible and features comfort stations, a shop for tackle and souvenirs, and indoor seating at the concessions area.

The pier is also an incredibly scenic spot for fishing! You can choose saltwater fishing off the dock for flounder, speckled trout, Spanish mackerel, and more. Or, you can venture farther into the park for freshwater fishing in Lake Shelby. There, you’ll find redfish, bass, catfish, and more. A complete list of fees can be found on the park’s website. There are additional charges for fishing licenses and rod rentals.

Inshore and Offshore Fishing Charters

Fishing charters are another awesome way to get the most out of your Gulf Shores fishing experience. When you select a fishing charter, the captain provides everything you’ll need. This includes the boat, fishing licenses, equipment, and top-notch knowledge of the local waters. Here are a few of our favorite fishing charters in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach:

1. Orange Beach Fishing Charters ‒ This capable crew has over 35 years of fishing experience. They offer a variety of options to fit every group’s size and preferred timeframe. Their most-booked tour is the six-hour-long charter for six people. Check out their website for pricing details. We highly suggest bringing your catch to the on-site restaurant at Zeke’s Landing Marina after your charter. They will happily serve you your freshly caught seafood!
2. Fish-Kabob Bowfishing  ‒ Fish-Kabob charters offer a variety of services to their guests. You can choose from fresh- or saltwater, night or day, bow or rod, inshore or offshore fishing when you book a charter with them. Their most popular adventure package is the Night Saltwater Inshore Bowfishing and Gigging excursion. You’ll have the chance to see stingrays, sheepshead, butterfly rays, and more.
3. Red Eye Charters  ‒ This half- or full-day charter service specializes in Bottom Fishing, Trolling, Tuna Fishing, and Deep Dropping for up to six guests. Red Eye charters is happy to accommodate groups looking for either a relaxing day on the water or a challenging afternoon excursion. The boat itself features a high cruise speed and comfortable amenities.

Check out the Gulf Shores Tourism website for even more fishing charter options!

When to Fish

There’s no doubt about it: fishing is a year-round sport along the Alabama Gulf Coast. During the summer, surf fishing along the beach is a favorite activity for both kids and adults.  Pompano, whiting, and flounder are the most common catches for this fishing method. When the spring weather turns into summer heat within a matter of weeks, it’s important to head into deeper waters to find bigger fish.

Summertime is arguably the best time of year for fishing in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. However, winter offers some promising fishing opportunities as well. Redfish, pompano, and sheepshead are the top three winter catches in Gulf Shores. Braving the winter cold could have a big payoff!

Check out this chart for a complete list of what’s biting during the different seasons. Please note that, while fishing is permitted at all times of the year, gray triggerfish season doesn’t begin until midnight on March 1st. Federal waters also open on this day.

How to Fish

There are so many different fishing methods to use in Gulf Shores. So, what exactly is the difference between inshore and offshore fishing? According to our Gulf Shores in Alabama fishing guides, inshore fishing usually takes place within nine miles of the shoreline. Popular spots include Fort Morgan and Perdido Pass. In Gulf Shores, you can expect to spend four to six hours reeling in speckled trout, white trout, tripletail, flounder and redfish. Offshore, or deep sea fishing, is done more than nine miles from land (typically 20-30 miles). Delve into the Gulf of Mexico’s rich, blue waters to find artificial reefs, natural sand bottoms, and a variety of fish.

Other fishing methods along the Gulf include fly fishing, bow fishing, and canoe or kayak fishing. These unique adventures can add an extra element of excitement to your fishing journey. No matter which method you choose, Gulf Shores is the ideal place for appreciating breathtaking scenery and catching staggering fish.

Reel in a Great Vacation Deal at Harris Vacation Rentals

Now that you’ve read our Gulf Shores in Alabama fishing guides, you’re ready to get out on the water! Whether you’re traveling to Gulf Shores for a guys getaway, family reunion, or vacation with the kids, fishing is a wonderful way to get out and enjoy the Alabama sunshine.

A vacation rental home with Harris Vacation Rentals is the perfect place to unwind and spend quality time with family and friends. Our Beach Babe home features a private beach and fishing pier for your enjoyment. Soak up the sun on the sand or test out your fishing skills on the dock. The home’s side porch overlooks Little Lagoon, making it a peaceful spot to relax with a book or a cup of coffee. This 3-bedroom oasis has comfortable furnishings, spacious entertainment areas, and covered parking as well.

Why wait to take the vacation of your dreams? Check our availability and start planning your Gulf Shores vacation today! Check out our condo rentals and deals now.