Bollweevil Off Orange Beach: A Gulf-Scale Fishing Day That Delivers
Starting at $850 • All ages • Up to 6 guests • 3 to 8 hour options • Family friendly!
The water is a bright, restless slab of pewter and teal when you push away from Zeke’s Landing Marina. Offshore, the horizon is a clean, confident line; closer in, the Gulf nips at the bow as the 38-foot Bollweevil eases into a steady cruise. The engine thrum is constant—a mechanical heartbeat you learn to read—and the captain’s eyes are trained on the surface, scanning for birds, temperature breaks, and the subtle swell changes that tell you where the fish are staging.
Trail Wisdom
Arrive Early
Plan to be at Zeke's Landing Marina 15 minutes before your scheduled time—check in at the left dock, slip A5.
Bring a Cooler
Food and drink are not provided; bring a cooler with snacks and non-glass beverages for the trip.
Sun Protection
Wear a wide-brim hat, polarized sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen—sun reflects off the water more intensely than you expect.
Motion Prep
If you get seasick, take preventive meds before you board and choose front-seat or lower-ride positions on the boat.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Pine Beach for sunset views and calmer shorelines
- •Local bait-and-tackle shops for last-minute tips and local lures
Wildlife
Bottlenose dolphin, Pelicans
Conservation Note
Follow federal and state bag limits and seasons; the charter provides guidance and works within NOAA regulations to help protect reef and shelf ecosystems.
Orange Beach’s maritime culture grew with the Gulf’s commercial and recreational fisheries; sport fishing has long been central to the community’s identity.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Spanish mackerel runs, Milder temperatures
Challenges: Intermittent weather, Variable water temps
Spring brings migrating pelagics like Spanish mackerel closer to shore and comfortable air temps, but expect more rain windows and changing sea conditions.
summer
Best for: Red snapper season, Full-day offshore trips, Warm calm seas
Challenges: Hot sun, Higher demand/booked charters
Summer opens the widest variety of targets offshore and often the calmest water—book early and arm yourself with sun protection.
fall
Best for: Amberjack and cobia, Cooler weather, Less crowded marinas
Challenges: Shorter days, Fall storms some years
Fall concentrates bait and predators as water cools; it’s an energetic season with fewer crowds and strong bite windows.
winter
Best for: Off-season deals, Targeted species like gag grouper in certain years
Challenges: Colder water and air, Rougher seas possible
Winter trips are quieter and sometimes offer good value, but plan for colder temps and potential sea chop.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Polarized SunglassesEssential
Cuts glare so you can read the water and protects eyes from reflected UV.
Reef-Safe SunscreenEssential
Protects your skin and local ecosystems from harmful chemicals.
Non-Slip Deck ShoesEssential
Secure footing on a wet deck helps you fish and move safely.
Seasickness Medication
Take preventively if you’re prone to motion sickness—better to be prepared.
Common Questions
What is included in the trip price?
Rods, reels, tackle, lures, bait, and fishing licenses are included; food and drink are not—bring a cooler and no glass containers.
How many people can the Bollweevil hold?
The Bollweevil accommodates up to six guests per trip for comfortable angling.
What species can I expect to catch?
Depending on season and trip type you may catch Spanish mackerel, king mackerel, redfish, vermilion and red snapper, amberjack, cobia, wahoo, and more.
What happens if weather turns bad?
Fairwater II monitors sea conditions closely; if conditions are unsafe they will attempt to reschedule and if not possible will issue a refund—book an early slot and keep backup days.
Do I need a fishing license?
Licenses are provided for the trip by the charter, so guests do not need to purchase separate licenses for these guided trips.
Where do we meet?
Check in 15 minutes early at Zeke's Landing Marina, 26619 Perdido Beach Blvd — look for the left dock, slip A5.
What to Pack
Polarized sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen, small cooler with snacks and drinks, non-slip deck shoes — protection and practical comfort for a day on the water
Did You Know
Alabama’s Gulf waters host federally managed recreational seasons for species like red snapper—regulations are set by NOAA Fisheries to protect stocks and shape charter seasons.
Quick Travel Tips
Book early in summer, arrive 15 minutes before check-in, bring cash/card for gratuity and dock fees, check NOAA season dates before booking
Local Flavor
After a day on the Bollweevil, head to Orange Beach’s waterfront restaurants—Fisher’s Dockside or The Gulf—for fresh Gulf seafood and a cold local beer; for a classic nightlife stop, visit the Flora-Bama on the state line.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Pensacola International (PNS) ~40 miles; Driving distance: Zeke’s Landing Marina is in Orange Beach; Cell service: generally good nearshore, patchy further offshore; Permits: charter carries necessary licenses—check seasonal federal bag limits.
Sustainability Note
Respect bag limits, pack out all trash, avoid single-use plastics, and use reef-safe sunscreen to minimize impact on local marine ecosystems.