Best Fishing Seasons in Orange Beach, Alabama

Orange Beach sits on one of the most productive stretches of coastline in the Gulf of Mexico, and the fishing calendar runs all 12 months. You just change the target.

Spring (March to May): The Run Begins

Spring is when the Gulf comes alive. As water temperatures climb through the 70s, the pelagic fish push north and the nearshore bite turns on. The spring cobia run is a Gulf Coast tradition, and sight-fishing for these brown bombers along the beach and around buoys is one of the most exciting things you can do with a rod. Spanish mackerel and king mackerel show up first, in big numbers, and they are perfect for light tackle and family trips. Red snapper season opener dates vary by year and regulation, but the opener is the biggest day on the calendar. Book your slip and your captain early.

Summer (June to August): Offshore Glory

Summer is the season of the big sportfish, and Orange Beach is built for it. This is when the tournament fleet runs, and when the Mobile Big Game Fishing Club, based right here at the marina, hosts its major events.

Yellowfin tuna show up on the overnight canyon trips, and the run from Perdido Pass puts you on the fish as fast as any port on the coast. The billfish bite peaks in summer, and Orange Beach has a reputation for granders. Wahoo and dolphin (mahi-mahi) are fast, plentiful, and excellent on the table. Red snapper is the heart of the recreational season, with limits and dates set each year by Gulf regulations.

Fall (September to November): The Inshore Switch

As the offshore water cools and the summer crowds thin, the inshore bite turns on. Fall is the season of the back-bay slam.

The bull reds move into the passes and along the beaches in the fall, and the bite can be spectacular. Speckled trout (spotted seatrout) fishing in the back bays and grass flats is excellent through the fall. The fall flounder run is a favorite of light-tackle anglers. King mackerel often make a second push in the fall as they migrate west.

Winter (December to February): The Quiet Bite

Winter is the Gulf Coast's secret season. Mild weather, empty water, and a bite that rewards the captains who stay.

Sheepshead stack up around structure in the winter, and they are one of the best-eating fish in the Gulf. The back-bay redfish bite holds up all winter, and black drum move in as well. Flounder and ground mullet are a staple of the winter table. Calm winter days can produce excellent bottom fishing for grouper, triggerfish, and amberjack.

Time Your Slip to the Bite

The best fishing seasons are also the busiest at the marina. If you are planning a summer tournament trip or a spring snapper opener, reserve your slip well in advance. Our Harbor Master can help you find a berth that fits your boat and your season. Submit a reservation request with your dates and vessel details.