What Fish are Biting in Orange Beach, AL? [Fishing Seasons, Fishing Excursions, & MORE]
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Nicknamed the, “Red Snapper Capital of the World,” you won’t find any shortage of postcard-worthy catch in this all-time favored angling destination. So, what fish are biting in Orange Beach, AL? Keep reading to discover what you can expect to catch in Orange Beach waters, how to catch them, and more!
Table of Contents
- Redfish and Speckled Trout
- Groupers and Snappers
- Pelagics
- Mackerel
- The Bottom Line
Redfish and Speckled Trout
Massive redfish caught while inshore fishing with Powers Fishing Charters in Orange Beach, AL
So, what fish are biting in Orange Beach, AL? Well, the Gulf is rich with coastal fishing experiences, and often bustling with species like redfish and speckled trout. While these prized game fish are also popular in destinations like the Florida Keys and Mexican border, they permeate in Orange Beach’s shallow waters all year round. Because they peak in the fall and winter, don’t underestimate the “lull” that comes afterward. With less competition, you’re bound to book some impressive catches.
How to Reel Them In
Redfish and speckled trout will come swarming along the bays and passes. Hook some ladyfish onto your reel, and you may be in for some impressive bull reds and gator trouts! With that being said, one of the best ways to catch these inshore species for yourself is aboard an inshore bay fishing charter. These charters have everything you need for a successful day of catching keepers.
{Read Reviews & Book Orange Beach Inshore Bay Fishing Charters Online}
Groupers and Snappers
According to a recent TripShock Traveler Story, party boat fishing in Orange Beach is a great way to catch snappers, groupers, and more
When looking for what fish are biting in Orange Beach, AL, you’ll find a profusion of groupers and snappers just waiting to be lured. Because they come in all shapes and sizes, groupers and snappers are ideal for rookie and veteran anglers. Plus, either make for a delectable dinner. You can whip up a creamy grouper risotto with a tart Chardonnay, or lemon red snapper with herbed butter. Fortunately, you can find grouper along Orange Beach year-round, while snapper tends to take to seasonal changes.
How to Reel Them In
Grouper will bite nearly any bait, including chub mackerel, white crab, and squid, while snappers prefer bait like mullet, gar, slimmies, and other small crustaceans. Party boat fishing charters are a great way to reel in grouper, snapper, and other species of fish that live in deep waters near the sea floor. Not only that, party boat fishing charters come equipped with the bait, tackle, fishing license, and instruction, so you don’t have to worry about a thing!
{Read Reviews & Book Orange Beach Party Boat Fishing Trips Online}
Pelagics
Angler deep sea fishing for pelagics in Orange Beach, AL
These deep-sea fish have an impressive appearance and make for a prize-worthy catch. However, you may have to venture out deep into the Gulf to get your hands—or hook—on one of them. Pelagics you’ll spot along the Gulf include Blue and White Marlin, Yellowfin and Blackfin Tuna, and Wahoo or Mahi Mahi, which are perfect for dinner after dark! While challenging to reel in, the good news is that these fish surface in the Gulf all year round.
How to Reel Them In
To gather these prized catches, you’ll want to take a large sporting vessel into the open ocean and practice patience. We mean 12 hours of patience! Watch out for subtle signs of fish on the surface—you never know when you’ll run into an entire school of these impressive species. Deep sea fishing private charters are the best option for catching massive marine life, as they are customizable as far as duration, departure times, and target fish species are concerned.
{Read Reviews & Book Orange Beach Deep Sea Fishing Trips Online}
Mackerel
Trolling while deep sea fishing on an Orange Beach fishing charter
If you love to get your troll on, Smoker King Mackerels in the Gulf will not hesitate to put up a fight! However, the undeniable struggle reaps delicious benefits—so be patient! Fortunately, you can enlist the help of an Orange Beach fishing charter to help troll this challenging species (and snap your photo afterward).
When it comes to hunting for Mackerel on Orange Beach, most any boat or rig will do. Mackerel are ready to feed on your bait throughout the spring and summer, with aggressive jigging and trolling most effective during the start of the season. As the summer progresses, slow trolling will do.
How to Reel Them In
Reeling in a King Mackerel is no easy feat. Pound for pound, their fight rating on the Saltwater Scale is an impressive 6.5 out of ten. Thus, your best chance at reeling one in is trolling. If using a lure, troll fast and use these troll rod holders for easy access. These intelligent fish have excellent eyesight and sharp teeth, so you’ll want to use a wire leader wisely—and keep your fingers out of the way.
{Read Reviews & Book Orange Beach Fishing Charters Online}
The Bottom Line
Young angler shows off catch aboard a family-friendly fishing trip in Orange Beach
What fish are biting in Orange Beach, AL? From catching snappers and groupers aboard an unforgettable party boat fishing trip, to reeling in the big one aboard an Orange Beach deep sea fishing trip, the options are practically endless. Talk about a good catch! For even more ways to have an amazing time in the Orange Beach area, be sure to check out TripShock’s Gulf Shores-Orange Beach, AL, Visitors Guide!