Not all saltwater fishing in Gulf Shores, Alabama, involves renting a charter boat to reel in a big catch. Anglers can fish right from the surf on the beach and still catch a worthy game fish. Depending on the time of year, surf anglers can land a flounder, red drum or tuna.
What to Catch
When surf fishing in Gulf Shores, Alabama, you are likely to catch a variety of saltwater game fish. Some fish you may catch include amber or crevalle jack, blue fish, black or red drum, croaker, flounder, grouper, ling cobia, mahi mahi, king fish, king or spanish mackerel, pompano, red, grey or vermilion snapper, spot, sea trout, tarpon, triggerfish, tripletail, yellowfin or blackfin tuna and wahoo.
Bait
Surf fishermen need good bait to land large game fish. Live or frozen shrimp, squid and sand fleas all work very well. Soaking dead shrimp in salt water overnight to use as bait the next day is also effective. Using pieces of bait fish like cigar minnows, mullet and lady fish also produce lucrative catches. Shiny lures like shiny spoons and torpedo spinners work the best if not using live bait.
Equipment
Surf fishing requires different fishing gear than freshwater lake or river fishing. Surf anglers generally use longer rods that measure between 9 and 15 feet. The rod must be sturdy enough to handle heavy game fish and weights, and flexible enough to cast long distances over waves. Anglers also use saltwater line to combat the corrosive nature of ocean water. Surf fishermen use pyramid sinkers and anchor leads to keep bait from moving in heavy ocean currents. Anglers can also purchase a sand stake or spike to hold the rod and reel in the sand instead of having to hold it yourself.
Fishing Guides
If you find yourself standing out in the surf and becoming frustrated from not catching any fish, then the Orange Beach Fishing Charters can help guide you to the right fishing spots. The charters have fishing guides that can show you how to correctly rig, bait and cast your reel into the surf. The surf fishing guide can also help you buy the right bait, tackle and equipment for fishing from any area tackle shop.
License
Everyone between the ages of 16 and 65 needs a saltwater fishing license to surf fish in the state of Alabama. Alabama resident anglers can choose between the annual and the seven day licenses. Non-residents must purchase the seven day license. Prices for fishing licenses vary depending on state residencies.
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