Our Archive

You wanna be where you can see our troubles are all the same you wanna be where everybody knows Your name days are all share them with me oh baby are the voyages of the Starship Enterprise

28April 2021

By Kevin c

The Complete Guide to Booking a Charter Fishing Trip

The waters of the Alabama Gulf Coast attract fishermen from all four corners of the globe. The area is renowned for its incredible variety of fish. Anglers get their hooks into everything from shark to red snapper, grouper to Spanish mackerel. Continue to read to learn about booking an Orange Beach fishing charter aboard the Miss Brianna.

There are also plenty of opportunities to snag hard-shell crabs, soft-shell crabs, oysters, and shrimp. It all depends on the time of year and the resources available to you. While some people stick to casting from the shore, a charter fishing trip will significantly enhance your odds of a bountiful harvest from the Gulf. 

Of course, if you’ve never been on a charter fishing trip, you likely have questions about how it works. Here’s our full breakdown of everything you need to know to take full advantage of this one-of-a-kind southeastern fishing adventure. 

Charter Fishing Trips 101

Nothing compares to the adrenaline rush of reeling in a big one. Upping your odds of a major catch involves finding the best locations and knowing which techniques yield success. But most importantly finding the right Orange Beach fishing charter boat and captain. The Miss Brianna fits that bill.

When you’re a traveler in a new location, having this intimate knowledge of the area and its fish proves impossible. Sure, you can try to bone up on TV shows and books about the area, but all the research in the world could still lead to a whole lot of nothing on the end of your line.

We’ve seen highly skilled fishermen with years of experience get little more than a nibble while fishing off the coast, even in areas recommended by locals. And we’ve also have seen beginners enjoy incredible successes on a guided boat. The secret is the charter fishing captain and have we got a good one.

What makes the difference? Knowing where to put your investment and time on a visit to Orange Beach and Gulf Shores. Start by doing a simple search: “Orange Beach fishing charter near me.”

Making the Most of Your Fishing Trip

After you’ve decided to go with the Miss Brianna chartered fishing boat and booked a time, it’s time to prepare for your upcoming fishing trip. This preparation includes everything from knowing what to pack to communicating with your fishing guide.

Guided fishing trips are all about establishing a connection with your captain. Begin forging this connection as soon as you book a charter fishing trip. Whether you’ve made reservations well into the future or are leaving next week, this is a vital step and you will find talking to Bobby Kelly is easy and informative.

During these communications, you need to get acquainted with the person you’ll soon be fishing with. In the process, you must agree on a handful of critical points, including:

  • The objective for your trip
  • Policies related to your trip
  • What’s included
  • Where and when you’re leaving

Let’s take a closer look at each of these considerations and how they’ll shape your upcoming Alabama adventure. 

The Objective for Your Trip

How will you know whether your chartered fishing trip is a success without setting clear, achievable objectives? Even if you’ve never been on a fishing vessel before, you likely have some expectations you need to hash out with the captain in advance. 

For example, do you have a specific fishing technique you’d like to use (e.g., fly fishing trips)? Are you in pursuit of a particular catch? Or do you have a fishing spot you’ve heard about and want to explore?

If you said yes to any of the questions above, you need to communicate these expectations to your fishing guide. If you or your friends require special accommodations or requirements, now’s the time to mention this as well. 

Not only will discussing these things allow your guide to make this trip the best possible, but it’ll provide them with opportunities to let you know when something isn’t in the cards. For example, if you’re after a fish species out of season, your skipper can make this clear from the get-go.

What’s Included in Your Trip

Besides going over expectations, you should also talk about what’s included in your trip as well as any policies you need to know about. These include asking about the captain’s policy on things like smoking, drinking alcohol, and whether to bring your own food.

Talk about extra services upfront, too. For example, would you like the guide to pick you up and drop you off? Would you like help with other parts of the process, such as licenses, fish cleaning, filleting, gear, or live bait? 

Captain Bobby Kelly will go the extra mile for his customers, but he needs to know early on to arrange the schedule, bring the right gear, etc. 

While you’re at it, make sure you ask about the price of fuel. It can add up quickly and may not be in the quote. While it’s common practice to include fuel charges in the bill, double-check to avoid unpleasant surprises.

Find out more about charter fishing trip rates aboard the Miss Brianna, whether you’re after a four-hour trip or a full day on the water. 

Where and When You’re Leaving

Confirm with your guide where and when you’ll head out on your trip before you leave. While this might sound like a no-brainer, we’ve met plenty of people who missed a scheduled charter due to miscommunication or poor planning.

After all, life happens. A marina might be under construction when your scheduled departure arrives, or your captain may have moved his operation. The Miss Briana departs both Orange Beach and Gulf Shores. No matter the case, get the details sorted out, so you don’t show up late.

Otherwise, your trip will get cut short, and you may not enjoy the experience (or the catch) that you envisioned going in. What’s more, if you’re heading out with friends who tend to show up on the late side, offer to drive so that you don’t lose precious time on the water. 

Remember that the vast majority of marinas provide parking to guests. But this can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season. So, inquire about parking options from your guide, too. 

Whether you’re on a reel fishing road trip adventure with your buddies or a snowbird flying south for the winter, you can have an epic fishing trip in Alabama. The tips above will help you establish a connection with your guide, manage expectations, and get to the ship on time. 

Fun in the Alabama Sun

What else do you need to know before departure? Most fishing trips leave early in the morning and can go overnight (be sure to check out our overnight fishing charters), and you’ll want to give yourself plenty of extra time to get there, especially during tourist season. Get a good night’s sleep the night before and have everything packed so you can get up and go.

Always act friendly and respectful with your captain and first mate. And get ready to soak up every bit of information that you can.

Remember that a guided fishing trip is about more than gaining access to a boat. The charter fishing captain is also there to teach you how to fish on the Gulf Coast. With these tips in mind, you’re ready for a fantastic ocean experience.   

Ready for more excellent information about fishing in Alabama? Check out our guide to Orange Beach fishing charter.  

13February 2021

By Kevin c

Tips for Bringing Kids Along on Your Orange Beach Charter Fishing Trip

Have you been exhausted from daily-life activities? Is the stress of work and home life overwhelming you? Do you simply need a break?

If you and your family are looking for a quick escape, then an Orange Beach charter fishing trip is a perfect solution.

A charter fishing trip allows you to get away from all the business of normal life without having to fly across the state. All you have to do is hop on a charter boat and allow your worries to drift into the sea. The best thing about this kind of experience is it’s fun for the entire family!

Charter fishing with kids is a great way to teach them fishing basics and about the ocean and boats. Not sure if your little ones will do well on a deep-sea fishing charter in Orange Beach, Alabama? In the guide below, you’ll reel in some useful tips for kid-friendly charter fishing trips!

Continue reading below to learn more!

Prepare Them for the Trip

One of the first things you can do is prepare your children for the trip. Teach them about traveling on boats, how to care for the ocean, what type of fish you’ll be catching, fishing and boating safety instructions, and more. There are even some books you can read to your little ones that teach them about fishing and the ocean. 

A charter fishing trip is a great opportunity to teach your children about see life. There’s so much to be learned, and you can get them excited for the trip during the process. You can discuss all the cool things you might see during the trip and all the fun things you’ll do as well, such as reel in a big fish!

Know Safety Comes First

While teaching your children about the up and coming trip, make sure to go over important safety rules. You should also keep safety in mind while on the charter. For example, everyone should have a lifejacket. 

If you’re bringing little ones under the age of six, then you should bring their own lifejacket from home to ensure it fits them properly. Sunscreen for lips and skin is also important. Remember, you’ll be on a boat surrounded by water and exposed to the sun for several hours. 

Sunscreen should be applied on a regular basis. Sunglasses and sunhats can help protect you and your children from the sun as well.

Bring Drinks and Snacks

Your charter trip will most likely last a few hours, depending on what you sign up for. Whether you’re on the boat all day or only for an hour, there’s a good chance your little ones will get hungry. It’s a good idea to bring healthy snacks and drinks to keep them content and happy during the trip.

Water, fruit, and some dried snacks work well! Don’t forget to pack some food and drinks for yourself too. The charter will have a freezer and refrigerator on board for you to store all your food in. 

Dress Them Appropriately 

While out on the water, it can get hot. Dress your children appropriately for both the sun and water. Sunhats and glasses always come in handy, but you should consider dressing them in sun-protectant clothing also. 

You should be able to find long sleeve bathing suit tops for both boys and girls. These kinds of tops won’t make them feel uncomfortable when wet, will dry quickly, and will protect them from the sun. Don’t forget a pair of soft-soled shoes too. 

Having all of the right attire will make the trip even more enjoyable. 

Pack Extra Activities

There will be a lot to see and do for your little ones while on the charter. It’s a good idea, however, to bring some extra activities for them to do just in case they need something else to occupy their minds. Children love to be involved when fish are jumping and getting reeled in, but if there are a few moments when things are quiet, you’ll appreciate having something for them to do.

This could include a coloring activity book, a board game, or something similar. Packing a camera with you is an excellent idea to ensure you snap a photo of your big catch! Packing another camera for your children to use and take pictures with gives them something to do and keeps them involved. 

Have a First Aid Kit Available 

Your charter will have a full first aid kit on board, but don’t forget to pack your specific first aid kit items. For example, do any of your children need motion sickness medicine? Are there other daily medications or prescriptions that you or any of your children need to take? 

Don’t forget to pack these items with you. You’ll be provided with the basics but anything specific you’ll need to bring. 

Grab All the Other Essentials

One essential item not already mentioned in this guide is a large cooler. You need a large cooler to bring your catch home in to keep it fresh.

If there’s something you want to bring but you’re not sure of it, then don’t hesitate to contact your fishing charter and ask. You can also take this time to ask about all other necessary items to bring along with you. Go through your list and mark everything off to ensure you don’t forget a thing. 

Are You Ready for Your Orange Beach Charter Fishing Experience?

Are you prepared for your first Orange Beach charter fishing experience with the entire family? Pack up the car and load up the kids! It’s time for a family adventure no one will forget!

Contact us today to schedule an Orange Beach charter fishing trip today. 

9December 2020

By Kevin c

A Beginner’s Guide to Charter Boat Fishing in Gulf Shores, Alabama

Are you thinking about going on a charter boat fishing trip? If you haven’t been on one of these types of excursions before, you are in for a real treat.

Fishing charters are a great way to spend time with your friends, to enjoy some beautiful scenery, to catch some fish, and to make some memories you’ll treasure always and will never forget. 

One of the best places in this entire nation to go charter boat fishing is off the coast of Alabama. The Gulf of Mexico is vast, but so many amazing fish visit and congregate off the coast near Gulf Shores at all times of the year. Many charter boat fishing guides and boat captains have been fishing these waters all of their lives, and therefore have developed the expertise needed to lead fishing trip participants to personal victories as well. 

If you’re interested in charter boat fishing in Gulf Shores, Alabama, then read on. You’ll learn everything you need to know to plan, execute and enjoy your charter boat fishing adventure.

How to Plan Your Trip

In order to have the best possible experience on your fishing boat charter, you’ll need to do some research and planning beforehand. It’s sometimes possible to book a fishing charter at the last minute, but it’s better to give yourself time to consider numerous factors to ensure that you choose the best boat, captain, and trip for you and your party.

Time of Year

The first thing to consider is the time of year that you should go charter fishing. Off the Alabama coast, it’s possible to fish year-round, but the weather can sometimes be a bit unpredictable in the spring, fall or winter. That doesn’t mean that you’ll have a bad time or that you won’t catch any fish, but it’s more likely to rain or be rough during those seasons. Most people enjoy summer in the Gulf most of all. However, we recommend customers pick two or three days in the Spring and/or Fall so, as we closer to the dates the weather is a little bit more practical. Contact us to discuss potential charter fishing dates in the Spring and/or Fall.

Also keep in mind that some fish are more prevalent at certain times of the year than others, so if you want to catch a specific type of fish, that can influence the right time of year to go as well.

Private vs. Shared

You’ll also want to decide if you want to pursue a private charter or a shared expense trip. A private charter is exactly what it sounds like; it’s you and your friends on a boat alone with the captain and crew. This is a great option if you have a large group and enjoy privacy. If you have a smaller group or would like to save money, you might consider merging with a group of strangers to split the cost of a charter among you.

Length of Trip

In Gulf Shores, you can find charter boat fishing trips offered at a wide variety of lengths. You could take a short, half-day trip, or you could charter a boat over several days. If you’re just starting out, you may want to choose a shorter trip. Fishing in the Gulf is often more tiring than you might imagine!

Food Fishing or Sport Fishing

You should also think about whether you want to fish for food or for sport. If a fish that you catch is in season, you can keep it and eat it, but if it isn’t you have to throw it back. If you know that you want to pursue fish that you can eat, let your captain know so he can help you to find fish that you can keep during your charter. 

How to Choose a Charter Provider 

When it comes to choosing a charter boat fishing provider, take time to consider all the possibilities. The charter provider you choose can and will make or break your overall experience.

Today, it’s easy to find reviews online for service providers of all kinds and that includes charter boat fishing providers. A quick internet search will help guide you to reputable and reliable captains, crews, and boats. A couple of bad reviews can be overlooked; consistently bad reviews should never be ignored.

When calling around to find out prices and more information, be sure to know the number of participants in your group. This will help a charter provider to know whether or not they can accommodate you. The person who answers the phone should be excited to answer your questions about the boat, the captain’s experience, the plan for the day at sea, pricing, onboard safety measures and more. 

Once you’ve selected a company, you’ll be asked to pay a deposit or you may even be asked to pay in full. This will hold the boat for your group until the day and time of the charter arrive.

What to Expect 

When the big day comes, arrive a little early. If you arrive a little late, you are only wasting your own time. Be sure to dress appropriately for the weather and prepare for anything. On a cooler day, wearing several layers is always a wise idea; you can shed them as it gets warmer.

You won’t need a fishing license to fish on a charter boat. When you charter a boat, everyone on board is covered by the boat’s fishing permit. You also won’t need to bring any fishing equipment or bait; on a fishing charter, everything is provided for you to use.

Introduce yourself to the captain and crew and prepare to listen to their directions. Remember, even though you chartered the boat, the captain is in charge. This is crucial to ensure everyone’s safety.

Off the coast of Alabama, you can catch some very interesting and exciting fish. If your charter heads out to deep waters, you can expect to catch fish like Red Snapper, Grouper, Trigger Fish, Amberjack, Tuna, and Marlin, to name a few. In the summertime, you can add migratory fish like King Mackerel, Cobia and Mahi-Mahi to that list as well. On the other hand, if you focus on inshore fishing, you may catch some Speckled Trout, Flounder, or White Trout. 

Charter Boat Fishing: Fun for All

The most important thing to do when going on a charter boat fishing trip is to relax and enjoy yourself. After all, that’s why you signed up to do it in the first place. It may seem like there are a lot of things to consider when planning a charter fishing trip, but once the time comes to hop on board, just listen to the captain and crew and get ready for a fantastic and memorable experience. After you go once, you’ll likely want come back for more time and time again.

If you’re looking for a great fishing boat charter in Gulf Shores, Alabama, please consider us at Miss Brianna Fishing Charters. We offer fishing charters for all ages and even offer charters that are especially geared towards kids. We can’t wait to take you and your family and friends out on the water. Give us a call today! 

20November 2020

By Kevin c

5 Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Fishing Vacation in Orange Beach, Alabama

Orange Beach, Alabama is home to some of the best fishing in the world. Miles offshore or right under the Gulf State Park pier, our fish are always ready to bite. Learn the times for getting the most out of your fishing vacation in Orange Beach, Alabama or Gulf Shores, Alabama.

Most anglers would fish 24 hours a day, if they could, but it would be a shame to miss out on all the other fun this area offers. We have beautiful beaches, delicious food, and thousands of acres of wilderness waiting to be explored. 

Before you arrive, you’ll want to read up on the best local activities, amenities, and restaurants to maximize your enjoyment. 

Wondering where to begin? Here are our top 5 tips to make the most of your Orange Beach fishing vacation. 

Book a Fishing Charter

First things first. If you’re serious about fishing, you’ll want to book a guide. A good charter captain will welcome you onboard and lead you directly to the fish. Depending on when you visit and where you go, you might catch red snappers, groupers, amberjacks, pompano, mackerel, sharks, or redfish. 

Local captains fish these waters almost every day, so they know what’s biting and where you will have the best chance of landing your dream catch. 

Orange Beach fishing charters also include gear and bait, so you won’t have to worry about bringing your own. All you have to do is sit back and get ready to reel. 

Most guides are able to customize the charter experience, so tell them exactly what you want. There are a variety of deep sea fishing charters, family-friendly charters, and back bay charters to choose from. 

Hiring a professional guide is well worth the cost – you won’t be disappointed. 

Plan to Get Some Rest

Fishing is hard work, and the sun can make you feel drowsy. You’ll definitely want a comfortable place to rest in between your vacation adventures. Luckily, there are plenty of options nearby! 

Whether you’re looking for beachfront luxury or bare-bones budget accommodations, Orange Beach offers something for every type of traveler. 

If you have kids, a hotel with a pool is a great option. Kitchenettes, free continental breakfasts, and on-site restaurants are also nice amenities to look for. 

Don’t forget to ask if there’s a grill, so you can cook up your catch of the day. 

Check Out the Orange Beach, Alabama Seafood Scene

If you’re a fan of seafood, get ready to be amazed. Orange Beach, AL offers some of the freshest fish in the country. Think gulf oysters, perfectly flaky grouper, and the sweetest shrimp you’ll ever taste. 

There are fine dining establishments and plenty of casual places to grab a basket of fried scallops. We have international restaurants that serve up Italian, Mexican, and Japanese flavors. The possibilities are endless. If you’re craving it, you will find it here. 

Orange Beach is also famous for its “hook and cook” tradition. Many of the restaurants in town encourage you to bring your own catch, which they will prepare to your liking. You can enjoy it blackened, grilled, fried, or baked. Best of all, you don’t have to do any of the work. 

Make your reservations in advance so you can fill your stomach with the tastiest gifts from the sea and say “cheers” to a successful day of fishing. 

Bring Your Beach Bag

It’s not a beach vacation unless you spend a day or two acting like a total beach bum. You can’t go wrong when you head for the sound of crashing waves. Our beaches have soft, white sand and breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico. 

For a social scene with great people watching and easy access to refreshments, try the Cotton Bayou public beach access. If you’re looking for some peace and quiet, take a drive down Perdido Beach Boulevard to discover your own private paradise. 

It’s best to come prepared with beach chairs, towels, and sunscreen. You might also want to bring a cooler of snacks and drinks. Alcohol is allowed on the beach as long as it’s in a can. No glass, please! 

No matter which beach you choose, bring your fishing gear to enjoy some laid-back surf casting. 

Enjoy the Great Outdoors

If you love fishing, you’re probably an outdoor enthusiast. In Orange Beach, you’ll find so many ways to stay active and enjoy nature. We have mild weather year-round, so every day is a great day to play outside. 

Our region is a dream for hikers and bikers of all levels. You’ll find trails through dunes, forests, and wildlife refuges. The views are incredible and you might spot birds, deer, and alligators along the way. Also, keep an eye out for dolphins when you stop to admire the Gulf. 

Golfers will appreciate having more than 10 golf courses to choose from. Nothing compares to perfecting your swing while you watch the sun reflect off your next fishing spot. 

One of the best ways to spend a day is paddling out to Robinson Island & Bird Island Park. You can rent kayaks or paddleboards and glide over calm, blue water to wide stretches of empty beach. 

The islands provide nesting habitat for herons and terns, so don’t forget to bring your waterproof camera if you’re a bird lover. 

Get Ready to Make Memories

Now that you know a little more about how to make the most of your time in Orange Beach, Alabama, it’s time to get excited.

Your fishing adventures will be complemented perfectly by relaxation, outdoor activities, and awesome meals. Give yourself a pat on the back for choosing the perfect place to vacation. 

To learn more about Orange Beach fishing charters, contact us today. We’re always happy to answer your questions about the local area. 

22May 2019

By Kevin c

Today’s 8hr trip with the Stanley family

Today’s 8hr trip with the Stanley family started off very exciting as this nice cobia swam up while we were bait fishing. With a quick reaction, our Mate Will got a bait in front of its face and the fight was on. Young Emily took the rod and after 12 minutes the fish was netted, photoed and released safely to live another day. The rest of the day yields plenty of white snapper vermillion snapper and even 6 scamp grouper. Thanks, Mike and hope to see you guys again