Orange Beach Charter Fishing Blog

24November 2020

By Kevin c

5 Must-Know Tips Before Deep Sea Fishing in Alabama

Your Alabama deep sea fishing trip is booked, and you’re ready to reel in a monster so you can snap the perfect photo for Instagram, then grill it up for dinner. If your fishing trip is a flop, you’ll disappoint your followers and your hungry family. 

Alabama deep sea fishing is some of the best in the world, but it’s not a sport for beginners. If you don’t know the local waters like the back of your hand, attempting an offshore trip without some serious planning isn’t just a waste of time and money, it can be downright dangerous.

But not to worry – there are a few easy ways to make sure you enjoy your day on the water, land loads of fish, and return safely to shore with a whole album full of trophy photos.

Here are our top 5 Alabama fishing tips to know before you go. 

1. Hire an Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Guide

Booking a fishing charter is the best decision you can possibly make, if you actually want to catch fish. A local deep sea fishing guide will take the guesswork out of getting bites, so you can sit back, relax, and wait for that rod to bend.

On your own, it would be nearly impossible to locate the best fishing spots, but your guide will know exactly where to find the wrecks, rocks, and man-made structures target species love to hang out around.  

A good guide will also know what kind of bait and gear to use, and everything you need will be handed to you when you board the charter vessel. No need to haul your own equipment from home, although you can if you really want to. 

Most Alabama deep sea fishing guides fish year-round, so they know how seasonal changes in factors like water temperature and quality affect fishing, and they’ll adjust accordingly. They also tend to exchange endless text messages with their guide friends, so they’ll know more than you ever could about what fish are biting where, in real time. 

Last but not least, a guide will keep you safe. Navigating unfamiliar waters, especially deep waters, can be treacherous. Landmarks are often confusing to novice boaters, and unexpected storms can blow you off course. Leaving these worries to the professionals is a no-brainer.  

2. Choose Your Charter Wisely

Alabama fishing charters are not one size fits all. Take advantage of the many options available to find a guide that shares your priorities and can accommodate your group. 

Most guides have websites, and you can usually get a feel for the type of client they serve by clicking around for a few minutes. 

Families or groups of friends with less than six people often prefer to hire a private charter. Larger groups might choose to board a party boat that can accommodate 25 or more anglers. 

Some guides will encourage catch and release fishing, while others will enjoy filling up the cooler and filleting your fresh catch for you at the dock. Charters can be educational, or they can be all about going after the big ones. 

If you have kids, look for a family-friendly guide. Shorter trips can be nice for kids who are just learning to fish. You’ll also want to take your budget into consideration, although the cheapest option probably isn’t the best. Nobody wants to ride 20 or more miles offshore in a discount boat. 

3. Practice Your Fish Identification

You’ll have more fun and avoid looking like a total newbie if you have some basic knowledge of the local fish species you might catch.

On shorter charters, you’ll stay closer to shore and you might catch triggerfish, red snapper, vermilion snapper, king mackerel, and bonita. During the fall months, it’s possible to get lucky and reel in an amberjack. 

If you book a guide to take you out for 8 hours or more, you’ll venture farther from the coast. Gag, red, and scamp grouper inhabit Alabama’s deeper waters, and the snappers tend to be bigger and better for eating the farther offshore you go. 

Avid anglers who book overnight fishing trips can look forward to going after yellowfin tuna, blackfin tuna, swordfish and pelagic shark species.

4. Pack a Bag

Don’t show up empty handed on the day of your charter. Every good angler comes prepared with a few basic items.

The Alabama sun can be relentless, so it’s important to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. A painful sunburn can ruin your vacation, so wear a shirt with a UPF sun protection factor of 50 or higher.

Check with your guide to see if water will be provided. If not, bring your own – and lots of it. Staying hydrated will help give you strength to fight the fish. Speaking of strength, snacks are also essential for keeping your energy up. Chips and granola bars hold up well in the heat. Just never bring a banana on the boat! 

If you suffer from seasickness, consider taking some motion sickness medication a few hours before you board your charter. There are also a variety of wristbands and patches on the market that can help you avoid feeling nauseous on the water. 

Last but not least, bring your camera, or at least a smartphone with a camera. You’ll definitely want to document your catch (or catches!) of the day. 

5. Manage Your Expectations

Deep sea fishing is most enjoyable when you keep an open mind. Being surprised by what you reel in is all part of the fun, and having a specific fish in mind can mean setting yourself up for disappointment. Let the ocean surprise you! 

Alabama deep sea fishing regulations exist to keep fish populations strong, and there will be times when your catch doesn’t meet the slot size limits. As delicious as that little red snapper looks, you’ll have to release it. The good news is there will always be dozens of world-class seafood restaurants to choose from at the end of the day. 

Get Ready for the Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Trip of a Lifetime

After your Alabama deep sea fishing charter is booked, the only thing left to do is get ready to have the time of your life. The fish are always biting in Alabama, and they will be waiting for you! Contact us to learn more and reserve your day on the water. 

23November 2020

By Kevin c

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.

23November 2020

By Kevin c

Want to Go Fishing in Alabama but Don’t Have a License? Hire a Fishing Charter!

You live in or around Alabama. You want to go fishing in Alabama. The only problem is that you don’t have an Alabama fishing license. 

You don’t plan on fishing much this year, and so you don’t really want to pay for one. You’d rather just have one big and extravagant fishing adventure. Might we suggest hiring a charter?

Booking a fishing charter enables you to get out on the ocean without a license. It offers a number of other benefits as well. Read on to find out what they are. 

The Benefits of Booking a Fishing Charter

The benefits of booking a fishing charter are many and varied. The most prominent of these benefits include the following. 

You Don’t Need a Fishing License

As we’ve made clear, when fishing on a fishing charter in the state of Alabama, you don’t need a fishing license. Charters in the state have licenses that cover everyone on board. 

Your only responsibility is to book the boat and show up on time. The charter company will handle the rest! 

You Don’t Need to Buy Any Gear

Fishing successfully (especially in the ocean) requires a great deal of gear. Not only do you need a pole and line but a large selection of tackle and bait as well. Added up, this equipment can cost you hundreds of dollars. 

That’s obviously a lot of money and money that you might not have on hand. Fortunately, when you book a fishing charter, you don’t have to pay for your own gear. The charter provides it all to you. 

The second you step on the boat, everything will be waiting for you. All you’ll have to do is sit down and cast out. This also saves you the trouble of having to pack up substantial amounts of equipment in your automobile. 

You’ll Receive Instruction

Never fished before? Have no experience in deep-sea fishing? A fishing charter is perfect for you. 

Fisher charters are patrolled by expert fishermen and they can show you everything you need to know in order to have a successful trip. They’ll show you how to cast out your line, they’ll tell you when to pull in your reel, they’ll show you what to do when you have a bite, and more. 

Don’t need instruction? No worries! The crew will have no problem leaving you to your own devices. 

You’ll Receive Guidance

The ocean is a big, mysterious place. If you’re not careful, you can get lost out on it. This is why, if you’ve never been out on the ocean before, you’re advised to take a guide. 

How do you find a guide? It’s as simple as booking a fishing charter. Fishing charters are navigated by experienced crews. They know their areas like the backs of their respective hands and know exactly how to get the boat to where it’s supposed to go. 

Going out on a boat alone in the ocean is a dangerous endeavor. You shouldn’t do it until you have plenty of experience under your belt. 

You’ll Get to Go Out on the Ocean

Unless you yourself have a boat, your fishing trips are going to be relegated to the pier or the shoreline. That is unless you book a fishing charter. Fishing charters will take you out upon the ocean, allowing you to catch those gigantic fish at the bottom of the sea.

Not to mention, you’ll get to take in some awe-inspiring views. Imagine looking in at the beach from miles out. It doesn’t get much cooler than that. 

How Much is a Fishing Charter? 

Now, you might be wondering: how much does a fishing charter cost? In truth, it can depend on a few factors, including the size of the boat, the number of passengers, and the area in which the charter is located. 

A good average to consider is between $500 and $800 per trip. This would cover around 5 or 6 passengers and would last for a few hours. 

Note, though, that there are some boats that can carry over 30 passengers, and which would cost several thousands of dollars for a single trip. If you have a big group, these can actually end up being the better deal. Their per-person costs are typically lower than those for small boats. 

Charter Fishing Destinations in Alabama

There are a variety of places to go charter fishing in Alabama. Some of the most popular spots include the following. 

Orange Beach

Orange Beach is the most popular beach in Alabama. Though it’s geared toward tourist activity, it’s a great place for charter fishing as well. There are plenty of charters located in Orange Beach and the surrounding areas, all of which can help get you out on the ocean. 

Gulf Shores

Bordering Orange Beach is Gulf Shores. Quieter than Orange Beach, Gulf Shores is an ideal spot for a relaxing and tranquil fishing experience. You shouldn’t have any trouble finding a fishing charter in the Gulf Shores area. 

Dauphin Island

Located off the coast of Alabama, Dauphin Island is surrounded by water on all its sides. Home to a bevy of fishing charters, it’s a great place to snag some speckled trout or snappers. 

Ready to Go Fishing in Alabama?

20November 2020

By Kevin c

Why Orange Beach Is Your Ultimate Fishing Getaway

Welcome to Orange Beach, Alabama, one of the Gulf of Mexico’s most beautiful beaches. The turquoise water lapping against soft white sand so fine it’s like sugar and stretches out of sight east and west.

If you’re an angler then you aren’t here for the sand. Good thing, too, because Orange Beach is also known as the Red Snapper capital of the world. The Gulf of Mexico is home to over 1,400 species of finfish. Throw in 51 sharks and another 49 skates and rays and you have some serious fishing in front of you.

The Gulf of Mexico’s shoreline stretches for 1,680 miles in the U.S. alone, giving the enthusiastic fisherman options. A little digging and you’ll find Orange Beach is the perfect spot to embark on your next charter fishing trip, and here’s why. 

Location, Location, Location!

If you’re planning a fishing trip, why not head to one of the prettiest spots on the Gulf? You spend the entire time fishing, so when you take your shore leave you’ll love the quaint little town of 5,000 residents. Orange Beach recreation opportunities abound. The shopping is great, the food is amazing, and there’s plenty of accommodations to fit any budget.

But still, you know it’s all about the fish. The Red Snapper is the star of the show here, but Orange Beach is almost exactly between Mobile Bay in Alabama and Pensacola Bay in Florida. It also features access to Perdido Bay right behind it to its north.

Alabama has an extensive nearshore reef system and the Perdido Pass is one example of the many shallow waterways that meet the Gulf of Mexico. Add the deep waters of the Gulf of Mexico to the equation and you have yourself access to all the Gulf of Mexico has to offer.

Orange Beach Game Fish

An old fisherman once said, ‘If you want to catch fish, you have to fish where the fish are at.’ There are some serious trophy fish to be caught in the Gulf of Mexico, and chartering a boat from Orange Beach will get you to those coveted spots quickly.

Grouper is an ugly, but delicious prize that can be caught in abundance in the deeper parts of the Gulf. Gag, red, and scamp grouper varieties are all possible depending on the season, but you’re talking 30-40 miles offshore to find them. You can bag yourself some vermillion and white snapper too while you’re that far out.

Red Snapper fishing in the summer is so productive you will see people throwing keepers back because they know there are bigger ones to catch. Mackerel and Bonita are some popular fish to angle for when bottom fishing nearer to shore. Redfish is another local fish that is fun to catch and delicious.

Amberjack is another game fish you’ll have fun angling for in the deeper regions further offshore. Serious fishermen will want to test the water for Swordfish. Jigging for Blackfin Tuna is another option, as is trolling for Yellowfin Tuna. These game fish are usually pretty far offshore so you’ll probably want to charter a full-day or even an overnight trip if you want to catch these big boys.

What Type of Charter Should You Book?

When chartering a boat you need to know a few things first. How many people is important to know because there are limits to how many people can fit comfortably on certain boats. There are limitations to how many can fish at once too. You don’t want to pack a boat with so many people that you only get to fish half the time.

Time is another important consideration. How much time do you want to be out on the water? If you’re going with children, or perhaps bringing people that have never fished before you’ll want to keep your trip shorter. There’s nothing worse than having to leave a hot hidey-hole because the kids or the newbies are going stir crazy.

You need to know what you want to catch. Seasonal rules are strictly followed, so don’t head out in January and expect to get Red Snapper. Federal restrictions can be different than state laws too. Red Snapper in the Gulf of Mexico will typically open for June and July, however inshore waterways under Alabama control might have longer seasons.

It’s difficult to get a charter company to commit to a guarantee, but most will at least say they will do everything possible to make sure you catch fish. After all, this is how they make a living, and people won’t book again if they don’t catch anything the first time.

This might mean they scrap the plan for bigger game fish halfway through the trip and have you jigging for flounder. You should ask in advance what their plan is for the trip. Will they be trolling while going from spot to spot? Do they have different bait for different fish? 

What Should You Bring With You on a Charter?

Most charters are pretty easy going with what is allowed on the boat, so long as it isn’t illegal. Bigger boats will sometimes have galleys or kitchens for the landlubbers. Some will have food for sale, while others will be happy to let you use the galley.

Ask your Captain before booking so you aren’t hit with any surprises. As a general rule of thumb, you should anticipate bringing it if you want it. That means bring a corkscrew if you want to open a bottle of wine. The point is, the Captain cannot anticipate everything you might need and the boat has limited space. 

If you’ve never been on a charter boat before, you should take something for motion sickness before you get on the boat. Even if you’ve been out dozens of times, having some Dramamine on hand is smart. Weather is unpredictable and when the waves get big they can affect the most seasoned seafarer. 

Booking a Charter

If you’re ready to experience all the Gulf of Mexico has to offer for fishing you should contact Orange Beach Sport Fishing Charters. We have multiple boats for different-sized parties and can accommodate short, medium, long, and overnight trips. Our Captains and mates are all skilled seamen and dedicated to making your trip one you’ll never want to forget.

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. 

20November 2020

By Kevin c

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. 

23May 2019

By Kevin c

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.

gallery of grouper
fishing orange beach grouper

23May 2019

By Kevin c

Bananas on a Boat: Fact or Fiction?

Let’s start this blog off directly by saying that I’m in the extreme prejudice when regarding a banana on my boat. In some instances I believe it could even be a life saving event when they are discovered beforehand.

Before I digress too far, let’s look back at the reasons behind the superstition. There are 2 stories the attributes banana’s to near certain death on a modern day boat (ok, I made that part up). There’s an Atlantic and Pacific version as well. The Atlantic story is that since bananas will spoil fast when they shipped them from South America to Europe they loaded the best vessels down with nothing but bananas. Now when sailors slept they slept below decks among the cargo to stay out of the weather. At night the insects that were in the bunches would come out, bite the sailors in their sleep. They’d get sick from the insect bites and the lore was that it was from the bananas. The Pacific version is that when the ancient Polynesians would go exploring they would put bananas in the dugouts as food along with other food. The bananas would give off a gas that made other food spoil more quickly. The explorers would rarely be seen again.


As all superstitions go, you can believe them or not. It’s up to you to believe but in the meantime, just leave the bananas at home

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