Where to saltwater fish in Alabama

There are hundreds of prime fishing locations in the Gulf and South Alabama. Here are some of our recommendations to get you started.

Gulf State Park

Seated along the Gulf of Mexico lies Gulf State Park, a popular location for both saltwater and freshwater fish. It’s also the location of a well-trafficked fishing pier. The pier includes a concession area, restaurant, retail shop and multiple comfort stations. Wheelchair-accessible rail fishing is also available, making it the perfect spot for everyone.

At Gulf State Park you can expect to catch a variety of fish, including redfish, sheepshead, speckled trout, catfish, croaker and king mackerel.

And lucky for your weekend plans, the pier is open all day, seven days a week. However, there is a charge for admission for most visitors. For detailed pier access fees, check out their website.

Fort Morgan

Home to one of the South’s favorite fishing experiences is Fort Morgan. Offering access to both the Mobile Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, fishers can access boat launches, piers, bridges and beaches. Fort Morgan is a great location to catch red snapper, speckled trout, king mackerel and more.

Dauphin Island

With beautiful white-sand beaches and a myriad of fishing spots, Dauphin Island welcomes you to grab your rods and set out to the waters. Win game like red snapper, redfish, mahi mahi and amberjack. Whether you have a boat or want to find a spot on foot, the small but mighty island is a great place to land.

Artificial Reef Zones

Did you know the nation’s largest artificial reef program is right here in Alabama? With inshore, nearshore and offshore reefs, these accessible fisheries provide easy access to many kinds of fish, like red snapper, gray triggerfish and greater amberjack. You can find these reefs near the Mobile Bay, the Mobile-Tensaw River Delta, Dauphin Island and other surrounding locations.

For zone coordinates and regulations, visit Outdoor Alabama’s website.

Ways to fish in Alabama

Alabama offers so many ways to saltwater fish both on and off the coast.

Fishing beachside is an accessible way to cast a line without a vessel. While you may miss out on some of the game found farther off the coast, you can hook a fine selection from the shore. Be sure to scout the best spots or visit one of the many bridges or piers found at Fort Morgan, Gulf State Park and surrounding areas.

For those wanting to try something a little more adventurous, try kayak fishing. Inshore saltwater kayak fishing is a method many overlook— but this pack-light, close-up experience is becoming more and more popular. For those without a kayak, renting one locally is easy. Just be sure to grab a life jacket before you head out.

If you’re looking to get on a boat, there are dozens of public boat launches across Mobile and Baldwin Counties. Check out Outdoor Alabama’s map to find a boat launch near you. No boat? A number of fishing charters are available to help get you on the water.

Requirements & Seasons

The state of Alabama requires a fishing license for anyone fishing or possessing fish in saltwater areas. Exceptions exist for persons under the age of 16 and residents 65 and over. Residents are permitted to fish without a license from licensed fishing piers located in inside waters.

Anglers are expected to abide by state creel and size limits, regulations, boundaries and seasons. For a complete list of closures, notices and updates visit Outdoor Alabama or NOAA’s website.

Let’s Get Fishin’

There is no time like the present to get out on the water and fish. Regardless of the season, Alabama offers so many opportunities to catch the best game. Want more? Check out our activity page for more fishing tips and locations.

From activities to new spots and everything in between, SEEK AL is your guide to outdoor life in Alabama. Join the adventure on Instagram and Facebook and experience a new outdoor, after-work thrill.