Hey there, anglers! Ready for an afternoon of rod-bending action just a stone's throw from Pensacola? Captain Al here, and I've got a 4-hour trip that'll have you hooked. Whether you're a first-timer or looking to introduce the family to the thrill of the catch, this Perdido Key expedition is tailor-made for a good time. We'll be targeting some of the Gulf's most prized fish, from hard-fighting Amberjack to the tasty Red Snapper. The best part? I've got all the gear covered, so you can focus on making memories and landing the big one.
As soon as we push off from the dock, you'll feel the excitement building. We'll cruise out to my favorite spots where the fish are biting. This trip is all about variety – one minute you might be battling a powerful Goliath Grouper, the next you could be reeling in a speedy King Mackerel. I've designed this trip to give you a taste of different fishing techniques, perfect for newcomers or those who want to brush up on their skills. And with room for up to 6 anglers, it's a great chance to bond with family or friends over the shared thrill of a good catch.
Don't sweat it if you're new to fishing – I've got you covered. We'll start with the basics, showing you how to bait your hook and cast like a pro. Depending on what's biting, we might do some bottom fishing for Snappers and Groupers, or try trolling for Mackerel. I'll teach you how to read the water and spot signs of fish activity. And when you feel that first tug on the line? That's when the real fun begins. I'll be right there to guide you through the fight and help you land your prize catch. By the end of the trip, you'll be swapping fish stories like a seasoned angler.
There's something special about fishing these waters that keeps folks coming back year after year. Maybe it's the moment when a big Amberjack hits your line and your reel starts screaming. Or perhaps it's the look on a kid's face when they reel in their first Triggerfish. Whatever it is, I've seen countless anglers fall in love with Perdido Key fishing. The changing seasons mean there's always something new to catch, and the thrill never gets old. Plus, with all licenses included and the mate's fee covered, it's a hassle-free way to experience some of the best fishing the Gulf has to offer.
Red Snapper: These crimson beauties are the crown jewels of Gulf fishing. Known for their firm, white flesh and sweet flavor, Red Snapper put up a great fight and make for an even better dinner. They typically hang out near reefs and underwater structures, and when you hook one, be ready for a battle. The best time to target these guys is during the summer months when regulations allow, and trust me, landing a big Red Snapper is something you'll be bragging about for years.
Gag Grouper: Gags are the bulldogs of the sea – stocky, powerful, and not afraid to use the environment to their advantage. These bottom-dwellers love to hang around rocky areas and reefs, often trying to duck back into their hidey-holes when hooked. The challenge is in getting them away from the structure, but the reward is some of the best-tasting fish in the Gulf. Fall is prime time for Gags, and hooking into a big one will test your strength and skill.
King Mackerel: If you're looking for speed and excitement, King Mackerel is your target. These sleek predators are known for their blistering runs and aerial acrobatics. We often troll for Kings, and when one hits, hold on tight! They can reach speeds of up to 60 mph, making for some of the most thrilling fights you'll experience. Spring and fall are the best seasons to catch these speedsters, and nothing beats the sight of a King Mackerel skyrocketing out of the water with your bait.
Grey Triggerfish: Don't let their small size fool you – Triggerfish are pound-for-pound some of the toughest fighters out there. These quirky-looking fish with their powerful jaws are a blast to catch and make for some fantastic eating. They're curious by nature and often visible near the surface, making them a great target for kids or beginners. We can catch these guys year-round, but they're especially plentiful in the warmer months.
Greater Amberjack: Nicknamed "reef donkeys" for their stubborn fighting style, Amberjack are the heavyweights of our half-day trips. These powerful fish will test your stamina and your tackle. When you hook into a big AJ, be prepared for a workout – they're known for their long, powerful runs and their ability to turn on a dime. Spring and fall are prime times for Amberjack, and landing one of these brutes is a true accomplishment for any angler.
Alright, folks, if you're itching to get out on the water and experience some of the best fishing Perdido Key has to offer, now's the time to lock in your spot. This half-day trip is perfect for making the most of your afternoon, whether you're on vacation or just looking for a quick fishing fix. Remember, all the gear is provided, and with space for up to 6 anglers, it's a great opportunity for a family outing or a fun trip with friends. The fish are biting, the weather's fine, and I'm ready to show you the hottest spots. Don't let this chance slip away – book now and let's make some fishing memories that'll last a lifetime. See you on the water!
Gag grouper are hard-fighting bottom dwellers that'll test your skills. Adults hang out near rocky areas and reefs in 60-250 feet of water. They average 20-30 inches but can reach 50+ inches and 80 pounds. Look for them around stone crab traps - they love crab. Live bait like mullet or pinfish works best, but cut squid or octopus can do the trick too. Use stout tackle - these guys will try to drag you into their hidey-holes. Keep your rod low and reel locked to yank 'em out quick. The fight's half the fun, but the mild, white meat is a real treat. Peak season's fall through early spring when they move closer to shore. One local tip: if you see smaller gags, keep fishing that spot. The big boys usually lurk nearby and come in to check things out.
Amberjacks are the bulldogs of the ocean - powerful fighters that'll test your stamina. These bruisers hang around deep wrecks and reefs in 60-240 feet of water. Most are 20-40 pounds, but they can top 100. Spring and fall are prime seasons when they move closer to shore. Live bait like blue runners or speedos is the ticket. Drop it down and hang on tight - when an AJ hits, it's like hooking a freight train. They make long, powerful runs trying to break you off in the wreck. High-speed jigging can work too if you're up for a workout. The meat's good eating, but be aware of size and catch limits. Here's an insider tip: when you hook one, get it coming up fast. If you let it run, you'll wear yourself out before you ever see the fish.
Don't let their small size fool you - triggerfish are feisty little brawlers. You'll find them around reefs and wrecks in 60-300 feet of water. Most are 2-5 pounds, but they can reach 13. These guys have tough, leathery skin and sharp teeth for crushing shellfish. Use small, strong hooks with squid or cut bait. They're notorious bait stealers, so when you feel the nibbles, get ready to set the hook fast. Triggerfish fight hard for their size, using their bodies like sails to resist coming up. The meat is sweet and flaky - great fried or grilled. They're most active in warmer months. Here's a tip: if you're catching smaller ones, there are usually bigger triggers nearby. Just be patient and keep at it. The fight and flavor make them worth the effort.
Kings are speed demons that'll make your reel scream. These sleek predators chase bait near the surface, usually in 30-150 feet of water. They average 20-30 pounds but can top 90. You'll find them along our coast spring through fall, with peak action in summer. Trolling with live bait or big spoons is the go-to method. Kings are known for short striking, so we use a stinger rig - one hook in the bait's nose, another trailing behind. When a king hits, let it run before setting the hook. The fight's fast and furious, with sizzling runs and acrobatic leaps. Kings make great smoked fish dip, but watch out for the bones. Here's a local secret: look for diving birds to find feeding kings. Nothing beats seeing a big king skyrocket on your bait.
Red snapper are a prized catch in our waters, typically weighing 5-10 pounds but can get up to 35. You'll find them hanging around reefs and rocky bottoms in 30-600 feet of water. These fish put up a good fight and taste great, making them popular with anglers. Best fishing is May through October during spawning season. To land one, use heavy weights to get your bait down deep. Cigar minnows or squid work well, but live bait like pinfish can attract the bigger ones. Watch out though - they'll make a run for cover when hooked. Reel fast and keep tension to avoid getting snagged. The meat has a mild, nutty flavor that's delicious grilled with just a squeeze of lemon. Full of omega-3s and protein too. Just remember there are strict regulations, so we'll help make sure you stay within limits.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Yanmar
Maximum Cruising Speed: 20
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 300