Surf Fishing in Gulf Shores, Alabama

--photo by John Phillips

Hannah stands near the surf fishing for Gulf Flounder on a cloudy, rainy day in Gulf Shores with her father.  Fishing can be rewarding if you have patience, the right bait and know how to catch them.

Surf fishing along the Alabama Gulf Coast is one of the most popular activities and attracts thousands each year.   The beauty of the Gulf of Mexico and the bay waters near Orange Beach, Gulf Shores and Ft. Morgan attract anglers of every age.  It has a magical force that makes those who love fishing, to want to wet a hook.

Surf Fishing Defined  

Surf fishing is the act of standing on the edge of the water or wading out in the water, standing on the jetties or sea wall, in order to cast your bait to where you think the fish may be.   It also includes fishing from a sea wall, rock jetties and piers.   Many of you know how to catch a Bass, Crappie or a Catfish but with a little help from our local tackle store, you can be catching saltwater species of fish like Speckled Trout, White Trout, Flounder and Redfish like the locals do.

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Getting Started Fishing

You will need to know what size hooks, lead sinkers, corks and leader material you will need to catch the fish you want.   You will also need to purchase live bait or frozen bait in order to catch the fish you desire.  If you are over 16 years of age, you will need to purchase an Alabama Saltwater Fishing License.   Most tackle stores sell them.  You are also welcome to purchase your Alabama Saltwater Fishing License Online prior to arriving to the beach.