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Orange Beach Fishing Guide: How To Catch the Best Fish

One of the primary reasons that people come to Orange Beach, Alabama is to go fishing. This area is well known for being one of the best and most fun places to catch fish in the United States. There are a vast number of species that can be caught here, and the weather is almost always beautiful for a day out on the water.

Everyone who loves to fish loves to go home with stories of the fish they managed to catch. The best “fish stories” are completely truthful with no exaggeration or imagination necessary. When it comes to Orange Beach fishing, it’s easy to capture great true tales and memories, because the fish you’ll catch here are numerous, large, and varied. 

If you’re planning a trip to Orange Beach soon, you likely want to learn a bit about this destination to help you catch the best fish in the gulf. There are a number of things you should know about the area so you’re ready to go as soon as you arrive.

In this informative post, you’ll learn what those things are. Read on to learn strategies that can help you reach your fishing goals and so you can go back home with some great photos, stories to share, and memories you’ll never forget. 

When to Fish in Orange Beach

Orange Beach is a year-round destination for fishing.

Even in the colder months, there is plenty of fish in the bays and bayous, on the reefs, and out in the deep water.

If you’re looking for a sunny and warm, short-sleeved weather fishing trip, you’ll want to come during the warmer months of the year, but some people prefer the winter due to fewer crowds and the prevalence of different types of fish. However, keep in mind that the water is calmer in the warmer months, and choppier in the cold ones.

Many anglers descend on Orange Beach during the fishing tournament season. The majority of these occur in May, June and July. Popular tournaments in Orange Beach include the Orange Beach Billfish Classic in May, the Orange Beach Open in June, and the Blue Marlin Grand Championship in July to name a few.

Different Types of Orange Beach Fishing

There are a number of different types of Orange Beach fishing you can try while you’re in town. Some people choose to stick to just one type and location, while others try all kinds of fishing types and spots while visiting. 

Land-Based Fishing

If you want to stay on solid ground, you might try surf fishing on one of our beautiful beaches, or you may venture into the bayou area to catch fish that enjoy a mix of salt and freshwater. The Perdido Pass area is great for land-based fishing. The large size of many of the fish in this area might surprise you!

Another excellent option for fishing near the shore is pier fishing. Orange Beach has a number of fishing piers and they come in all different sizes. Many people who love to fish enjoy this type of fishing because you can bring a lawn chair and a cooler and you can relax for the entire day in one spot. Fish love swimming near the piers because they give them the opportunity to hide and there’s plenty of food to eat there; you’ll be able to see them swimming around below from your unique vantage point.

Water-Based Fishing

Of course, many people who visit Orange Beach for fishing choose to go out on a boat on the water.

There are two main options when it comes to ocean fishing. You can join an established large group on a party boat, or you can charter a boat to enjoy with your friends or family only. Of course, the latter option will be more expensive, but you’ll get a much more personal experience. Many outfitters will help two or three small groups to merge to make the charter experience more affordable, so that’s an option to consider, too.

Party boat fishing trips often take the same route on each daily trip. Captains know where to go and will likely take you to some open parts of the bay and along the nearshore reefs. Because these trips are often somewhat short, you may not get too far out into the ocean.

On the other hand, you’ll have much more freedom and variety on a private or semi-private charter. Just tell your captain what you are looking to do, and he or she will take you to the best spots that he or she knows. You can enjoy inshore, nearshore, or offshore fishing, or maybe even several of those in one trip. Furthermore, your captain and crew can offer all sorts of help and advice to you, one-on-one, and help you improve your skills and grow your knowledge during your charter as well.

Types of Fish in Orange Beach

If you’re not sure where or when you want to go to Orange Beach, knowing what types of fish you want to catch may help you to decide. Many of the fish you’ll find in Orange Beach visit the area on a seasonal basis. If you want to catch Tuna, for example, you don’t want to come in the summer; Tuna are most prevalent in this area in the fall. White and Blue Marlin are common in the fall as well. However, you can catch Mahi-Mahi and Wahoo all year round.

The catch-and-keep versus the catch-and-release seasons vary by fish as well. If you know that you’re looking for a specific type of fish and want to be able to keep it to eat it afterward, you can call any charter outfitter and they’ll be happy to provide you with the information you seek. Fish like Red Snapper, Greater Amberjack, Gray Trigger, and porgies are all affected by seasonal regulations.

Happy Fishing

As you can see, there’s a lot to know about Orange Beach fishing, but hopefully after reading this post you’re excited to try it all! There is so much fishing to do in Orange Beach that it’ll be impossible to experience it all in just one visit, so chances are that after your first visit, you’ll be coming back time and time again. 

If you’re looking for an experienced, reputable, enthusiastic Orange Beach fishing charter company to take you out on the water, please give us a call today. We can’t wait to see you in Orange Beach!

4 Popular Alabama Fish You Can Catch From Orange Beach or Gulf Shores

Alabama’s Gulf Coast is home to a wide variety of marine life. Whether you’re chartering a boat to venture off into deep blue waters or you’re staying close to shore, you’re sure to come across all kinds of fantastic and diverse fish. Here are 4 popular Alabama fish.

If you’re chartering a boat in hopes of catching some of those prized Alabama fish, then you’re bound to have an unforgettable time. And by knowing what the most popular Alabama fish are, you’ll be able to better prepare yourself for a more successful angling experience.

Are you interested in learning more? If you are, then keep on reading and we’ll walk you through the top Alabama fish that you need to know about!

1. Red Snapper

Common red snapper sizes range from one pound to eight pounds. However, don’t be too surprised if you find one that weighs as much as twenty pounds. 

This fish tends to be rosy red in color. Red snappers can definitely put up a fight. They like to use strong, head-shaking maneuvers as opposed to long runs. 

Some red snappers like to stay around relatively shallow waters. For these fish, you can use light ocean tackle.

If you’re out on a charter boat, you’ll probably want to use deep drops in strong currents. This means that you should be using strong lines and heavy rods.

When it comes to bait, dead cigar minnows or pilchards can serve you well. Live small baitfish will be more useful in areas that are heavily fished. 

2. Triggerfish

The triggerfish tends to be a uniform dark gray in color. Sometimes, especially in smaller ones, it will also feature dark blotches on its sides. 

These fish tend to weigh between one and three pounds. They have tiny mouths that are full of parrot-like teeth. Because of this, your rigging is going to be extremely important. 

You’ll need to use very small number four or number six hooks. When it comes to bait, it should be pint-sized. A dime-sized piece of squid mantle or just one squid tentacle cut in half will make good bait. 

You want to tie your hook to a 15-pound test line with no leader. 

It’s usually not that hard to find triggerfish. In fact, many times anglers will come upon them by accident. Triggerfish tend to congregate around structures and under flotsam, such as buoys, buckets, and logs. 

If you spot a triggerfish near the surface, then you should slowly pull within casting distance. Then, flip your bait near the fish.

Usually, the triggerfish will come rushing out from under their cover to attack the bait. However, you don’t want to drop your bait right over the fish because the splash can scare them away. 

3. Amberjack

Colloquially known as “Reef Donkeys,” amberjack may not be the most beautiful fish out there but they sure put up a spectacular fight. 

They’re overall golden or brown in color. They have heavy bodies and a dark oblique line that runs through the eye and ends at the dorsal fin.

Schools of young amberjack are common at five to twenty pounds. The average size of amberjack over reefs is between thirty and sixty pounds. However, you may find some that weigh more than 100 pounds.

The amberjack is a strong and punishing fighter. It defies lifting and powers deep. Early in the fight, they may employ long runs. 

Not only are amberjack strong but they also have incredible stamina. An amateur angler may end up wrestling with Amberjack for an hour or longer. 

These fish tend to be caught aboard charter boats on heavy rods and reels. You should be using lines testing 50 pounds or more.

If you’re an experienced light-tackle angler, you should be able to successfully overcome amberjack with spinning and baitcasting rigs. 

4. Cobia

In the water, cobia might look a lot like sharks. They are usually dark gray or brown and have whitish undersides. They also have a dark stripe that runs from their gills to the base of their tails.

Younger cobia tend to have more vivid stripes. 

These fish tend to weigh between twenty and fifty pounds but can also weigh as much as eighty pounds or more. It’s important to know that cobia are strong and unpredictable fighters.

Cobia tend to go on long and fast runs. They can also fight deep with a lot of stamina. Many cobia, however, will save their strongest fight for after they’ve already been reeled onto the boat. 

For pier fishing and boat fishing, surf tackle is going to be your best best. Cobia are notorious for wrapping lines around wreck structure and buoys. So you should use 30-pound test line or heavier to make up for this.  

Once you’re clear of obstructions, it shouldn’t be too difficult to reel in cobia with baitcasting, spinning, and fly tackle. 

Live batfish work well with cobia. That includes grunts and jacks, cigar minnows, mullet, and pinfish. Live crabs, shrimp, or dead squid will also do the trick. 

The Importance of Knowing About the Most Popular Alabama Fish 

Hopefully, after reading the above article, you now have a better idea of what the most popular Alabama fish are. If you’re like us, all this talking about fish has only made you more excited to hit the water and see what fish you’re able to catch.

If you’re looking to charter a boat in Alabama and go angling on the Gulf Shores, then contact us today and see how we can help you!

Why Alabama’s Gulf Shores Are the Best for Fishing Charters

The United States is home to thousands of top-notch fishing spots. But when it comes to fishing charters, none of those spots quite measures up to Alabama’s Gulf Shore.

Wondering what the location has to offer? Then read on. Here are the top reasons to rent a fishing charter on the Alabama Gulf Shore. 

1. They’re Home to All Types of Fish

First and foremost, there are a variety of different types of fish that you can catch on the Gulf Shores. These include: 

Speckled Trout

Typically found inshore, speckled trout are most commonly caught during the colder months of the year. They tend to travel in large schools, meaning that they’re ripe for the picking. 

Redfish

Also found inshore are redfish. Common to all parts of the Gulf, redfish are easiest to snag during the spring, summer, and fall months. Note, though, that they’re still very much out there after the colder temperatures have set in. 

Snapper

One of the most popular fish around the Gulf Shores area is the snapper, and the red snapper, in particular. These bad boys can only legally be caught during the summer months. So, if you’re targeting them, specifically, be sure to book your charter boat plenty in advance. 

Kingfish

Kingfish can be found in the nearshore of the Gulf Shores. These long, slender creatures are most easily caught during the summer months. So, book your charter for June, July, or August and see if you can bring one in. 

Cobia

Alabama’s Gulf Shores area is renowned for its artificial reef, which attracts all types of fish year-round. A fish that is common to this area is the cobia. Provided with an ample number of needed nutrients, cobia can grow to extreme sizes in these parts. 

2. They’re Undeniably Beautiful

All ocean beaches possess a beauty about them. However, few extol the beauty extolled by Alabama’s Gulf Shores. Characterized by turquoise waters and white, sandy beaches, the Gulf Shores are something close to a paradise. 

And while they appear beautiful from every vantage point, they’re at their best when viewed from the deck of a fishing charter boat. Cast your line as you look out upon the endless expanse of ocean. Look inland to the attractive beach area and resort buildings. 

There’s no fishing atmosphere on the planet that stands above the Alabama Gulf Shores atmosphere. This place is pure ecstasy and facilitates a warm and relaxing fishing experience. 

3. They’re Relatively Calm

In many beach resort towns, anglers have to contend with swaths of rowdy beachcombers. These beachcombers not only increase the volume of the surrounding atmosphere but they also have a negative effect on the behavior of the surrounding fish. 

This doesn’t tend to be a problem when it comes to Orange Beach fishing. Orange Beach and the Gulf Shores area are a little more laid-back. They are capable of facilitating a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere. 

This isn’t to say that they’re without action. They still attract big crowds. But, by and large, those crowds are respectable and enjoyable to be around. 

4. They Offer Much More Than Just Fishing

Gulf Shores fishing is some of the best in the United States. However, Gulf Shores is much more than just a fishing spot. They offer a variety of activities for visitors to partake in. 

At Alabama’s Gulf Shores, you can:

Relax on the Beach

After a long day of fishing, there’s nothing better than grabbing a chair and relaxing on the beach. Bring your towels and your umbrella and just take in the atmosphere that surrounds you. It doesn’t get much better than the Gulf Shores. 

Eat at Top-notch Restaurants

The Gulf Shores area is a tourist area. As such, it offers a bevy of top-notch restaurants. Whether you like seafood, barbecue, pizza, buffets, breakfast places, or otherwise, the Gulf Shores area has a restaurant that will accommodate you. 

Grab some grub before you head out on the boat and you’ll have a day to remember. 

Drink at an Assortment of Bars

If you’re a fan of alcoholic beverages, the Gulf Shores area won’t let you down. It offers an assortment of bars, from low-key drives to loud and raucous clubs and everything in between. In short, you’ll have no problem cutting loose after a long day out on the ocean. 

Go Golfing

There are a number of golf courses spread throughout the Gulf Shores area. These run the gamut from pro-level courses to mini-golf courses and everything in between. If you enjoy a day on the links, the Gulf Shores will suit you well. 

Hit a Waterpark

There are a few waterparks spread throughout the Gulf Shores area. These include Waterville USA and The Park at OWA, to name just two. There is also a bevy of amusement rides available. 

Take in Some History

Are you a history buff? If so, Gulf Shores and its surrounding areas have plenty to offer you. From old houses to museums to lighthouses and more, there’s plenty of history to take in while you’re in town. 

Visit the Zoo

If you get tired of the aquatic wildlife, you might consider checking out some land-borne animals. There are tons to see at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, from lions to tigers to monkeys and more. 

Take a Tour

There are all sorts of tours that you can take in the Gulf Shores area, from kayaking tours to boat tours to bike tours and more. If you want to see the area, this is a great way to do so. 

Looking to Rent a Fishing Charter on Out of Alabama’s Gulf Shores?

What do you think? Interested in renting a fishing charter on the Alabama Gulf Shore? If so, we here at Miss Brianna Fishing If you’re looking to find the perfect fishing charter, look no further than the Alabama Gulf Shores. Come visit and see what they have to offer.Charters are the ones to see. 

Contact us now to discuss your options! 

What You Need To Know About Fishing in Alabama’s Gulf Shores

For many, the allure of a vacation on the horizon helps you get through some of those long days at work. Dreaming of your next vacation in Alabama Gulf Shores?

With the beautiful beaches and warm, sunny climate, what’s not to love? While some might like to spend their vacation time lounging on the miles and miles of beaches, the anglers in your family can’t wait to get a fishing pole in the water. 

If you’re the fisherman in the family, you might be dreaming of spending your vacation reeling in the wealth of fish that Alabama’s Shores offers. 

Read on for all you need to know about fishing in Alabama Gulf Shores waters. 

How to Fish on the Gulf Coast

Because of the region’s expansive coasts and access to open water, there are any number of ways you can scratch your fishing itch. There is everything from dropping a line in the water from the shore to going on a highly experienced and well-equipped charter for a day of fishing Alabama’s waters. 

Let’s take a closer look at some options you have for gulf shore fishing. 

Pier Fishing

With the Gulf Shores miles of beaches, also comes many piers jutting out into the Gulf waters. Even the most experienced fishermen enjoy some fishing time on the pier with their fellow anglers. This is a great way to get some tips from others who fish these waters and can share their fishing tales and expertise. 

While many piers you can fish from free of charge, others will have a very minimal fee to allow you out on the pier. Make sure you have a fishing license before heading out there. More on fishing licenses shortly.

Surf Fishing

The miles of beach is a vacation paradise, and not just for the sun worshipers. This is quite literally an endless places to cast a line into the water right from the shore. Many fishermen appreciate the opportunity to find a spot right from shore to put a line into the water. 

Some of the waters’ bigger catches will come in close to shore around the mouth of the area bays. Other fishermen appreciate the Big and Little Lagoon waters for the variety of fish available there. 

Kayak Fishing

For a truly serene fishing experience, consider renting a kayak for some fishing time. There is not a more peaceful way to spend some time fishing than quietly paddling to your fishing spot and dropping in a line. 

Your paddles are much less likely to disrupt the fish than a motorized boat. Many of the area lagoons offer calm waters perfect for kayak fishing.

Charter Boat Fishing

Going out on an area charter boat is really the way to experience the best in Gulf coast fishing. Gulf charter boats offer the full fishing experience for those looking to spend a day out on the water. 

Charter boats can take their fisherman for a day of fishing inshore, nearshor of offshore, depending on the type of experience you want  to have. The boats will have all the equipment needed for a day on the water and the fishing captains are experts at fishing in the area. They will know the best locations to take you so you get some action on the fishing poles. 

Don’t worry either if you aren’t an experienced angler. Let your captain know your level of experience and they can tailor the experience to make it the best for you. Spending a day on a charter boat is the ultimate Alabama fishing trip.

What Fish Will You Catch?

You wouldn’t be a fisherman if you weren’t already thinking about what your catch might include. There is a wide array of fishing ready for the catch in the Gulf waters. Let’s take a closer look at some of the fish you might be able to reel in!

Redfish

Redfish are the perfect shallow water fish from the Gulf waters. You can catch the Redfish from bays, flats, and mangroves in the area surrounding the Gulf waters. 

Redfish are great catches for fall, but also bite in winter for those out on the waters. 

Speckled Trout

The Speckled Trout is another shallow water fish that is popular from Gulf shores waters. You can catch the tasty Speckled Trout in both fall and winter months. This fish travels the waters of the area in large schools making them an easily available catch.

Red Snapper

This fish is famous in this region’s lore. For those who are experienced Alabama fishermen, the Red Snapper is part of the best in Gulf coast  fishing. 

The area has strict rules for when you can get the Red Snapper on your lines. This fish is only allowed to be fished during summer months. 

Kingfish

The Kingfish are a popular nearshore fishing catch. Like many of the fish who come into the nearshore waters, the best time to snap the Kingfish is during the summer months. 

Get Your Fishing License

While you might be anxious to hit the waters, you want to make sure you do it legally. You will need a fishing license to fish in the Alabama Gulf waters. 

There are a variety of ways to get a license. You can get them from many of the piers that are available for fishing. Many area fishing shops have licenses available for purchase. 

If you are going out on a charter boat, the captain will take care of your licenses for you.

Fishing in Alabama’s Gulf Shores

Alabama Gulf Shores offers the ultimate in fishing opportunities. From throwing a pole in from the pier to spending a day out on the waters in a charter boat, the opportunities to reel in Alabama’s fish is abundant. 

If you’re ready to spend the day out on the Gulf waters, we want to be your charter boat. Contact us today to get started planning your day out fishing Alabama’s Gulf Shores.

The Gulf Shore Is the Place To Be for Fishing and Beyond!

How would you like to spend a day on the open sea catching red snapper or grouper just off the coast of Gulf Shores, Alabama?

It could be your reality if you book a fishing charter off the coast of Alabama.

Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and the surrounding coastal communities are the perfect fishing destination. The weather is gorgeous, the fish are plentiful, and there are attractions for the whole family to enjoy. 

Keep reading below to learn about how Alabama has the best fishing in the United States. We’ll also give you a few recommendations for family-friendly things to do with the wife and kids.  

Where’s the Best Fishing in Alabama?

If you’ve never visited the gulf coast of Alabama, then you don’t know what you’re missing. There are a ton of freshwater and saltwater opportunities for all anglers. 

For this article, we’re going to take a look at the best places to go fishing in the Gulf of Mexico. 

Many locals and visitors go surf fishing right off a beach or pier. The 1,540-foot pier in Gulf State Park is open 24/7, just make sure you have a license and permit. Others like to catch migrating fish off the jetties at Perdido Pass.

Fishing experts recommend aiming where the surf breaks against the sandbars.

Serious sportsmen like to charter a fishing boat. Nothing beats going miles out into the Gulf of Mexico to catch the big fish. Charters can be booked from four hours to an overnight excursion. You also have the benefit of an experienced crew.

Depending on the time you book, they can help you to fish blue water, bottom, or topwater. Several rod options are also available. 

Although it may cost a few extra dollars to charter a boat and crew, you’ll make memories that last a lifetime. And don’t forget the bragging rights of catching a giant grouper! 

What Can You Catch off Gulf Shores?

Out-of-town anglers may not be familiar with the fish near Gulf Shores. Let’s take a look at what you’ll be able to catch on a charter. 

If you decide to take a shorter trip, like five hours, then you’ll be more likely to catch mackerel or bonitos. These can be caught with artificial lures or small bait. They both weigh under 10 pounds, on average. 

The longer your voyage the bigger and more delicious the fish become. Red Snapper can weigh up to 30 pounds and are seasonal among the summer months when many people are taking vacations. 

Visitors who opt for a full day charter have the time to go searching for monster grouper. Whether gag, scamp, or red, groupers can weigh up to 50 pounds and require the boat to go 45 miles into the Gulf of Mexico. Anglers can also catch vermillion snapper and white snapper on the way. 

How intense do you want to get on your fishing trip? Book an overnight trip and search for yellowfin tuna, blackfin tuna, or swordfish into the late hours. 

Check out our local fishing blog to see what other charter guests have caught. 

Be Prepared for Gulf Coast Fishing

Fishing in the Gulf of Mexico is more complicated than surf fishing or trying one of the freshwater spots in Alabama. You need to make sure to collect all of the necessary equipment to do it right. 

Here is a list of key saltwater fishing accessories

  1. Select a saltwater rod according to the type of fish you want to catch (long vs. short and fast vs. slow)
  2. Find a reel that works with your rod and decide how fast you want to reel it in
  3. Choose a braided line that will hold the weight of the type of fish you’re looking for
  4. Baits can be artificial or live like herring, ballyhoo, eels, mullet, and sardines
  5. Pick up the right tools: filet knife, gaff, pliers, and the right tackle for your trip 

There are two other things you should worry about when saltwater fishing. First, invest in a good ship-to-shore radio in case you break down or get caught in a storm. 

Some people like to buy sonar or chart plotters to help navigate. You can also pick up a fish finder to make the whole process easier for everyone. 

And, most importantly, wear the right clothing for the activity. Fishing attire will keep you comfortable no matter the temperature or sun exposure. In the middle of the gulf, you need to protect your skin. Always wear sunblock, sunglasses, and a hat. 

Attractions for the Whole Family To Enjoy

We’ve covered a lot of ground with saltwater fishing, but what if the wife and kids don’t want to go with you on a 12-hour deep sea fishing expedition?

No problem! There are a ton of family activities around Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. 

Many families like to rent bicycles and spend the day taking in the amazing views of Gulf State Park. Hiking trails are also a good way to see wildlife like alligators, deer, and many species of birds. 

Spend a day learning how to build the perfect sandcastle at the Sand Castle University, or ride The Ferris Wheel at The Wharf to look out across the beach and beyond. 

The Track Recreation Center in Gulf Shores has coasters, go-karts, mini-golf, bumper boats, and kids rides. 

The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo and Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center are a short drive away. They offer families a bunch of educational activities to pass the time. 

No matter what you do on your vacation, Alabama’s gulf coast is a great choice.  

Ready to Charter a Fishing Boat?

If you’re planning a vacation to Gulf Shores and you want to do some fishing, why not go big? Fishing charters are affordable, fun, and what you catch will be delicious. 

Remember there’s more than one way to do a charter. You can go out for a few hours or book a full day. The expert crew of the “Miss Brianna” will provide all the equipment you need and tips on how to catch the best fish. 

Contact us now to book your fishing expedition. 

Who’s got grouper?

Who’s got grouper????

Seems as if we always get the request for a grouper on our fishing trips. While this species is one of my favorites for table fare and difficulty to catch is one of the more directed charters, means it requires a specific area to target. Our most common types of grouper in Orange Beach would be a Gag, Scamp or Red grouper and they all prefer 200 plus feet of water. While our area it suited to red snapper fishing to target grouper with any success we must travel 35 miles at a minimum requiring a full 12hr fishing trip and a dedicated angler willing to reel them to the surface. While luck never ceases to amaze me occasionally, we do get lucky and find a misplaced gag or scamp grouper on a half day trip. These are what I like to call “Bonus Fish”! So if you’ve wanted to visit Orange Beach and go grouper fishing bring your sunscreen and Wheaties!

Grouper Are Great Eating

Grouper is a great fish for serving company or a special family dinner. A few of our favorite recipes include, Pan-Seared Grouper with Balsamic Brown Butter Sauce and Mediterranean-Style Baked Grouper with Tomatoes and Olives. Take a look at these recipes and then schedule your charter fishing trip in Orange Beach to go get a few of these tasty fish for your table.