World-Class Inshore Fishing | Orange Beach, AL

Published Date: July 17, 2025
Fishing

Orange Beach Boulevard, AL
$400 - $950 price range
Updated Date: September 7, 2025

Summary

Get ready for a great day of inshore fishing in Orange Beach, Alabama with Captain Ricky. This 4-6 hour trip is perfect for groups up to six, whether you're bringing the family or heading out with friends. You'll be targeting popular Gulf species like Cobia, King Mackerel, Speckled Trout, and Sheepshead in the nearshore waters. No need to worry about gear - all the rods, reels, bait, and tackle are provided, along with fishing licenses. It's an ideal setup for newcomers learning the ropes or experienced anglers looking for consistent action. Captain Ricky knows these waters well and will put you on the fish while you enjoy the beautiful Gulf Coast scenery. With a mix of species to catch and expert guidance, you're in for a solid day of fishing just off the Alabama shore.

World-Class Inshore Fishing | Orange Beach, AL

Inshore Action Shots

6 grey triggerfish caught in Gulf Shores

Red Snapper fishing Orange Beach AL

Scenic view of the Gulf Shores coastline

Family fishing trip Orange Beach AL

Orange Beach charter fishing fun

Offshore fishing Orange Beach today

Reel in the Action: Orange Beach Inshore Fishing

Get ready to hit the nearshore waters of Orange Beach, Alabama for some of the Gulf's most exciting inshore fishing action. This 4-6 hour trip with Reel Fishin' Charters puts you right where the fish are biting, targeting crowd-pleasers like Cobia, King Mackerel, Speckled Trout, and Sheepshead. Whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time wetting a line, Captain Ricky's got you covered with all the gear and know-how you need for a successful day on the water.

What to Expect on the Water

As soon as you step aboard, you'll feel the excitement building. Captain Ricky's got the boat loaded with top-notch rods, reels, and tackle, so all you need to bring is your sense of adventure. We'll cruise out to the prime fishing grounds just off the Alabama coast, where the inshore waters are teeming with fish. You'll have plenty of time to try different spots and techniques, maximizing your chances of landing that trophy catch. And don't worry about licenses – we've got that covered too. This trip is perfect for families looking to make memories, newbies wanting to learn the ropes, or experienced anglers after some consistent action.

Techniques That Land the Big Ones

On this trip, we'll use a mix of techniques to target different species. For Cobia and King Mackerel, we might do some sight fishing or trolling along the coast. When we're after Speckled Trout, light tackle and live bait are often the ticket. Sheepshead require a bit of finesse, so we'll show you how to vertical jig around structures where these striped fighters like to hang out. Captain Ricky's always got a few tricks up his sleeve, and he'll tailor the approach based on what's biting that day. You'll pick up new skills and insider tips that'll up your fishing game, no matter your experience level.

Top Catches This Season

The inshore waters off Orange Beach have been on fire lately. Anglers have been hauling in some impressive Cobia, with a few topping the 30-pound mark. The King Mackerel bite has been steady, providing plenty of high-speed action. Speckled Trout have been schooling up nicely, giving folks the chance at some tasty fillets for dinner. And let's not forget about the Sheepshead – these crafty "convict fish" have been keeping everyone on their toes around the pilings and reefs.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Cobia: These powerful fish are a top target for good reason. Also known as ling or lemonfish, Cobia can grow over 100 pounds and put up a fight that'll test your skills and your gear. They typically show up in Orange Beach waters from April through October, with peak season in May and June. Cobia are curious fish and often swim right up to the boat, giving you a shot at sight-casting to these bruisers.

King Mackerel: If you're after pure speed and excitement, King Mackerel (or "Kings") are your fish. These streamlined predators can rip line off your reel at blistering speeds, often going airborne in spectacular jumps. We usually find them from spring through fall, with the biggest specimens showing up in the cooler months. Landing a big King is always a thrill, and they make for some excellent fish tacos too.

Speckled Trout: A favorite among local anglers, Speckled Trout (or Spotted Seatrout) offer year-round action in the bays and grass flats around Orange Beach. These silver-spotted beauties are known for their delicate flavor and willingness to bite. Spring and fall are prime times, but you can catch them any month of the year. There's nothing quite like the subtle 'thump' of a trout hitting your lure.

Sheepshead: Don't let their goofy-looking teeth fool you – Sheepshead are smart, strong fighters that'll keep you on your toes. These striped fish hang around structures like pilings, jetties, and artificial reefs. They're most active in the cooler months, from October through April. Sheepshead are notorious bait-stealers, so hooking one is a true test of an angler's skills. But the reward is some of the tastiest white meat you'll ever put on a plate.

Spanish Mackerel: While not as big as their King Mackerel cousins, Spanish Mackerel more than make up for it with their abundance and ferocious strikes. These fast-moving fish travel in schools, so when you find them, the action can be non-stop. They're typically in Orange Beach waters from spring through fall, with the best fishing often in the morning hours. Spanish Mackerel are perfect for anglers of all skill levels and make for some fantastic smoked fish dip.

Time to Book Your Spot

An inshore fishing trip with Reel Fishin' Charters is more than just a day on the water – it's a chance to create lasting memories, learn new skills, and experience the thrill of battling some of the Gulf's most exciting fish. Whether you're looking to fill the cooler with tasty fillets or just enjoy the scenic beauty of Orange Beach from the water, this trip delivers. Captain Ricky's knowledge of the local waters and passion for fishing ensures you'll have the best possible shot at success. So why wait? Grab your hat, slap on some sunscreen, and let's get out there where the fish are biting. Your next big catch is just a cast away!

Learn more about the species

Cobia

Cobia, or ling, are one of our most unique catches. They're big, typically 20-40 pounds, but can top 100. You'll spot them cruising near the surface around buoys, wrecks, and even following large rays or sharks. Spring is prime as they migrate along the coast. Anglers love cobia for their powerful fights and excellent eating. They're curious fish - often swimming right up to the boat. Use heavy spinning gear with 30-50 lb line. Live eels or large jigs work well. My local tip: always have a ready rod with a bucktail jig when you're out. Cobia often pop up unexpectedly, and you need to be quick. Once hooked, be ready for some serious pulls. These fish have stamina and will test your arms and your patience. It's a battle worth every minute.

King Mackerel

Kings are the speedsters of the Gulf, hitting 30 mph in short bursts. Adults typically run 10-20 pounds but can top 50. You'll find them in open water from 30-150 feet deep, often around structures that hold bait. Spring and fall are prime as they migrate. Anglers love kings for their blistering runs and jumps when hooked. The meat's good eating if prepared right. Trolling with live bait or big spoons is the go-to method. Use wire leaders - their teeth will slice through mono. My local tip: look for diving birds, that often means kings are pushing bait to the surface. Once you find them, it can be non-stop action. Just be ready for some serious fights - these fish will test your gear and your arms.

Sea Trout

Speckled trout, or specs as we call 'em, are a favorite inshore target. Most run 1-3 pounds, but gators over 5 aren't uncommon. You'll find them in grass flats, around oyster bars, and near creek mouths. They like moving water and structure. Spring and fall are prime, but you can catch 'em year-round. Anglers love specs for their aggressive strikes and good table fare. Light tackle with 10-15 lb line is perfect. Try live shrimp under a popping cork, or soft plastics on a jighead. My go-to trick: work your bait with a rhythmic pop-pop-pause retrieve. That mimics a shrimp trying to escape and often triggers strikes. At dawn and dusk, look for trout blowing up on bait near the surface. Those feeding frenzies can produce some of the most exciting fishing you'll ever experience.

Sheepshead

Sheepshead are one of the craftiest fish in these waters. They typically run 2-8 pounds but can get up to 15. You'll find them around any structure with barnacles - pilings, jetties, reefs. They've got a mouth full of human-like teeth perfect for crushing shellfish. Winter and early spring are best, when they school up to spawn. Anglers love the challenge - sheepshead are notorious bait stealers. The meat is excellent, sweet and flaky. Light tackle with 15-20 lb line works well. Use small hooks with fiddler crabs, oysters, or shrimp for bait. My top tip: when you feel the lightest tap, set the hook hard. These guys will strip your bait clean if you hesitate. It takes some practice, but once you get the hang of it, sheepshead fishing is addictive.

Spanish Mackerel

Spanish Mackerel are a blast to catch and great eating too. These sleek, speedy fish usually run 1-3 feet long and 2-6 pounds. You'll find them in schools near the surface, often around structures like reefs or wrecks in 30-100 foot depths. Spring and fall are prime seasons as they migrate. They're known for their blistering runs and aerial acrobatics when hooked. The meat is tasty but needs to be eaten fresh. To catch 'em, try trolling with small spoons or jigs at a good clip. My go-to trick is to use a wire leader - their razor-sharp teeth will slice through mono in a heartbeat. Watch for birds diving on bait schools, that's often a dead giveaway Spanish are feeding below. Once you find a school, you can usually catch your limit pretty quick if you keep 'em fired up.

About the

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6

Manufacturer Name: Suzuki Four Stroke

Maximum Cruising Speed: 30

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 150

Ready for some inshore action in Orange Beach? Hop aboard this well-equipped charter for a fun day of fishing in the Gulf. With room for up to four anglers, you'll have plenty of space to cast your lines and reel in some great catches. Captain Ricky knows these waters like the back of his hand, so you're in for a productive outing targeting popular species like cobia, king mackerel, speckled trout, and sheepshead. No need to worry about gear - everything you need is provided, from rods and reels to bait and licenses. Whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time wetting a line, this 4-6 hour trip offers the perfect mix of fishing and sightseeing along Alabama's beautiful coast. Bring the family, grab some friends, and get ready for a relaxed day on the water with the chance to land some impressive fish. Just show up ready to have a good time and leave the rest to the pros.

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