Gulf Shores Fishing Charters
Hooked on sugar-white beaches and legendary bites? Gulf Shores is your Gulf Coast basecamp for serious fishing action year-round.
Top Rated Charters in Gulf Shores
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Gulf Shores, AL Fishing Guide
From nearshore reefs to deepwater drop-offs, Gulf Shores offers one of the most diverse and accessible saltwater fisheries on the Alabama coast. Local captains here target a wide range of species throughout the year, with many hotspots reachable in under an hour from the dock. The inshore fishery is a favorite for light tackle anglers, with the back bays, canals, and marsh drains loaded with speckled trout, redfish, flounder, and sheepshead. These fish stack up around docks, grasslines, oyster beds, and bridges, making them ideal targets for half-day trips or beginners looking to stay close to shore.
Just a few miles out, you’ll hit a network of artificial reefs — part of one of the largest reef programs in the U.S. Over 15,000 structures dot the nearshore and offshore waters, creating habitat that draws serious gamefish close to land. Red snapper are the summer star, with the short but intense June–July season bringing in hard-fighting fish up to 20 pounds. Year-round, you’ll find black grouper, scamp, vermilion snapper, and amberjack around deeper reefs and wrecks. King mackerel cruise the mid-depth zones in spring and fall, while cobia migrate right along the beaches in April, often sight-cast from towers.
Farther offshore, captains target pelagics like mahi-mahi, blackfin tuna, and wahoo in the summer. These species follow temperature breaks and bait lines, making for exciting trolling runs 30+ miles out. As fall cools the water, bottom fishing fires back up, and inshore species like trout and redfish start feeding aggressively again. Even in winter, Gulf Shores delivers — calm days open up deep dropping for grouper and snapper, while the back bays remain productive. With year-round action, it’s no wonder Gulf Shores is a favorite for anglers of all skill levels.
Fishing Seasons in Gulf Shores
Spring
Spring fishing in Gulf Shores heats up quickly. Cobia migrate along the beaches in April — sight fishing fans, take note. Inshore waters are active with speckled trout, redfish, and flounder. King mackerel begin showing up on the nearshore reefs, and amberjack open in May offshore. Grouper and snapper species are catch-and-release until federal seasons open, but they’re still biting.
Summer
Red snapper season peaks in June and July, and Gulf Shores is one of the best launch points to target them. Mahi, blackfin tuna, and wahoo show up offshore. Inshore action remains steady in the mornings before the heat picks up. Tarpon sometimes cruise the beaches by late summer. This is high season for both fish and tourists.
Fall
Cooling temps fire up inshore species — speckled trout school up and redfish get aggressive in shallows. King mackerel and Spanish are thick nearshore. Offshore, grouper and amberjack fishing continues strong. You’ll also see bull redfish moving through the passes and surf in October and November.
Winter
Don’t sleep on winter — this is a great time for deep drops to target black grouper, scamp, and snowy grouper on calm days. Inshore, trout concentrate in deeper holes and bayous, while sheepshead gather around docks and jetties. Fewer boats and clearer water can mean better odds for anglers who don’t mind a chill.
Gamefish in Gulf Shores
- Red Snapper – Common size: 10–20 lbs; abundant during summer season.
- Black Grouper – Often 15–30 lbs offshore, found around deeper reefs.
- Amberjack – 20–40 lbs, powerful fighters over wrecks and reefs.
- Speckled Trout – Inshore favorite, typically 2–4 lbs but can hit 6+.
- Cobia – 20–40 lbs during spring beach runs, often sight-cast.
- King Mackerel – 10–30 lbs nearshore, hard hits and long runs.
- Flounder – 1–5 lbs, excellent eating and fun on light tackle.
Gulf Shores Fishing FAQs
Do I need a fishing license in Gulf Shores?
If you’re fishing with a licensed charter, you’re covered. Otherwise, Alabama requires a saltwater license for anglers 16+.
What fish are biting right now in Gulf Shores?
It depends on the season, but speckled trout, redfish, king mackerel, and grouper are consistent options. Summer highlights include red snapper and mahi.
When is red snapper season in Gulf Shores?
Red snapper season typically runs from early June to mid-July for federally permitted boats. Exact dates vary yearly.
Can I keep the fish I catch on a Gulf Shores charter?
Yes, most charters allow you to keep legal fish. Your captain will help with limits and cleaning.
What’s the best month to fish Gulf Shores?
June is peak for snapper and offshore species. October is great for inshore redfish and trout with fewer crowds.
Are there family-friendly fishing charters in Gulf Shores?
Absolutely. Many captains offer 2–4 hour inshore trips perfect for kids and beginners.
How far offshore do Gulf Shores charters go?
Nearshore trips stay within 10 miles, while offshore runs can go 20–60 miles depending on the target species
What should I bring on a fishing trip?
Sunscreen, hat, snacks, drinks, and a camera. Your captain will provide gear, bait, and licenses
Can I fish from the beach in Gulf Shores?
Yes, surf fishing is popular. Expect to catch whiting, pompano, redfish, and the occasional flounder.