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Gulf Shores Inshore Fishing: Redfish & Mackerel
- Published Date: September 7, 2025
- Fishing
- Orange Beach, AL
- $350 - $550 price range
- Updated Date: November 22, 2025
Summary
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Reels and Rods in Action
Half Day Inshore Fishing: Gulf Shores' Hidden Gems
Ready to wet a line in some of Gulf Shores' most productive inshore waters? Hop aboard with Another Fish Charters for a morning of rod-bending action targeting redfish, mackerel, and more. Led by Captain Ronald Doyle, a local angling pro with 30 years under his belt, you're in for a real treat. Whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time holding a rod, this 4-hour trip is the perfect way to experience the rich fishery of Alabama's coast.
What to Expect on the Water
As the sun peeks over the horizon, you'll meet Captain Ron at the dock, eager to hit the water. The boat's prepped and waiting, with room for up to four anglers. It's an early start at 6:30 AM, but trust me, those early morning hours are prime time for hungry fish. Don't worry if you're not an early bird though - there are later departure options at 11:30 AM, noon, and 2 PM. Once we're out, you'll be hands-on with the fishing. Captain Ron's got all the gear and bait you need, plus a wealth of local knowledge to put you on the fish. The inshore waters here are calm and protected, making for a smooth ride and easy fishing - perfect if you've got kids or folks who aren't fans of choppy seas.
Techniques That Land the Big Ones
Inshore fishing in Gulf Shores is all about versatility. We might start off sight-casting for tailing redfish in the shallows, using light tackle and artificial lures to entice these bronze bruisers. When the tide's right, we'll switch gears and drift live bait along deeper channels for mackerel and flounder. Captain Ron's a pro at reading the water and adjusting tactics on the fly. He'll show you how to work a popping cork for speckled trout or jig the bottom for sheepshead around structure. It's not just about catching fish - you'll pick up tips and tricks that'll make you a better angler, no matter where you fish back home.
Species You'll Want to Hook
Redfish: These copper-colored bulldogs are the stars of Gulf Shores inshore fishing. They love to hang around oyster beds and grass flats, often revealing their location with their trademark tailing behavior. Redfish put up a stubborn fight, making that first run when hooked that'll have your drag singing. They're most active in the cooler months, but you can catch them year-round here.
King Mackerel: Also known as kingfish, these speedsters are the sprinters of the Gulf. They're typically found in deeper inshore waters, and when they hit, hold on tight! Kings are known for blistering runs and acrobatic leaps. Late spring through fall is prime time for kings, with many anglers targeting them during their annual migration.
Spanish Mackerel: The smaller cousins of king mackerel, Spanish are no less exciting to catch. They travel in schools, so when you find them, the action can be fast and furious. These fish are lightning-fast and will test your reflexes. Look for them from spring through fall, often chasing bait schools near the surface.
Southern Flounder: Masters of camouflage, flounder lie in wait on the bottom for unsuspecting prey. While they might not put up the strongest fight, the challenge is in the technique. You'll learn to feel for their subtle bite and set the hook just right. Fall is the best time for flounder as they move to deeper waters for the winter.
Sheepshead: With their distinctive black and white stripes, sheepshead are often called the convict fish. They hang around structures like pilings and reefs, using their human-like teeth to crush crabs and barnacles. Sheepshead fishing is all about finesse and timing. They're most active in the cooler months and are prized for their sweet, white meat.
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
It's not just about the fish - though that's a big part of it. The real magic of inshore fishing in Gulf Shores is the experience. Picture yourself gliding through calm waters as the sun rises, pelicans diving for their breakfast nearby. You might spot dolphins playing in the distance or ospreys hunting from above. It's a peaceful way to connect with nature while still getting your adrenaline fix when the fish start biting. And with Captain Ron at the helm, you're not just on a fishing trip - you're getting a guided tour of the local ecosystem from someone who knows it like the back of his hand.
Time to Book Your Spot
Whether you're looking to fill the cooler with tasty fillets or just want to enjoy a morning on the water, this Gulf Shores inshore trip has you covered. With daily departures (except Sundays) and all gear provided, it's an easy way to add some excitement to your beach vacation. Captain Ron's experience means you're in for a productive day, no matter your skill level. So why wait? Grab your spot on the boat and get ready for some rod-bending action in the rich inshore waters of Gulf Shores. Trust me, once you've experienced the thrill of battling a big red or the satisfaction of landing your first flounder, you'll be hooked for life. Book now and let's make some fishing memories!
Learn more about the animals
King Mackerel
King Mackerel, or Kingfish, are the speed demons of the Gulf. These sleek predators average 20-30 pounds but can top 90. You'll find them in open water from 40-150 feet deep, often around bait schools. Summer and fall are prime seasons when they move closer to shore. Anglers prize Kings for their blistering runs and aerial acrobatics. Nothing beats the scream of a reel when a big King hits. They're also great eating, with firm, flavorful meat. Trolling with live bait or large spoons is the go-to method. Here's a local trick: use a stinger rig with two hooks. Kings often short-strike baits, so that trailing hook ups your odds of a solid hookup.
Redfish
Redfish, or Red Drum, are the bulldogs of the flats. They average 5-10 pounds inshore but can reach 50+ offshore. Look for them in shallow bays, around oyster bars, and in coastal marshes. Fall is prime time when big spawning bulls move in. Anglers love Reds for their powerful runs and hard-pulling fight. Plus, they're excellent table fare with sweet, firm meat. Sight-fishing for tailing Reds in skinny water is a rush. Use live bait, soft plastics, or topwater lures. Pro tip: when you spot a Red's tail waving in shallow water, cast well beyond it and slowly retrieve. Reds spook easily, so a natural presentation is key to getting that heart-pounding strike.
Sheepshead
Sheepshead are the striped convicts of the sea, weighing 1-8 pounds typically. You'll find them around any structure with barnacles - piers, bridges, reefs. They use those weird human-like teeth to crush crustaceans. Spring is spawning time when they gather offshore. Anglers love the challenge of hooking these bait stealers. Their light bite takes practice to detect. But man, are they good eating - sweet white meat that's hard to beat. Use small hooks with fresh shrimp, fiddler crabs, or barnacles. My pro tip: when you feel the slightest tap, count to three, then set the hook hard. Their bony mouths make for tricky hook-sets, but stick with it and you'll be rewarded with some fine eating fish.
Southern Flounder
Southern Flounder are ambush predators that lie camouflaged on the bottom. They average 15-18 inches but can reach over 20 inches and 5 pounds. Look for them in sandy or muddy bottoms of shallow coastal waters, especially around structure like jetties or oyster beds. Fall is prime time as they move to deeper water to spawn. Flounder fishing takes patience - they're masters of stealth. But the challenge and tasty fillets make it worth it. Use a slow retrieve with live bait or soft plastics, keeping your offering close to the bottom. Here's a local secret: when you feel a bite, don't set the hook right away. Give the flounder time to fully take the bait, then reel down and lift to set it firmly in the corner of their mouth.
Spanish Mackerel
Spanish Mackerel are fast, streamlined fish that put up a great fight. They typically run 1-2 feet long and a few pounds, but can reach 25 pounds. You'll find them in schools near the surface, often around structure or bait balls. They're most active in warmer months when they migrate into our waters. Anglers love targeting Spanish Mackerel for their acrobatic jumps and speedy runs. Their light, flaky meat is also excellent eating. To catch them, try trolling or casting small shiny spoons or jigs that mimic their favorite prey like sardines or anchovies. A local tip: when you see birds diving, there's a good chance Spanish Mackerel are feeding below. Cast into the frenzy and retrieve quickly for some fast action.
About the AFC
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Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Suzuki
Maximum Cruising Speed: 35
Number of Engines: 1
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