Offshore Sweat and Salt: A Day Aboard the Summer Hunter in Orange Beach
4 -12 hours • 6 People Max • Captain Sara and Mitch Parker
The early-morning sky over Orange Beach is a pale promise: thin pink—no fanfare—then the sun lifts and sharpens every surface. At Zeke’s Landing Marina the 39-foot Sportscraft called the Summer Hunter hums gently against its dock lines, cabin lights still warm from the previous night. Captain Sara runs a checklist the way a musician warms up before a show: lines, electronics, bilge. Mitch Parker crouches at the transom checking the rig—knots snug, lures feathered like small flags in the salt breeze. This is not a luxury yacht; it’s a working fishing boat dressed for comfort. It smells of diesel, bait, and something else you’ll carry home: uncomplicated possibility.
Trail Wisdom
Bring non-slip shoes
Rubber-soled shoes reduce slips on wet decks and protect you while handling gear.
Pack motion-sickness remedies
If you’re prone to seasickness, take medication or use acupressure bands before departure.
Bring sun protection
Wide-brim hat, sunscreen, and polarized sunglasses help you endure long sunny runs.
Budget for tips and cleaning
Plan for a deckhand tip (18–20%) and fish cleaning fees (listed per pound).
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Perdido Key State Park for early-morning beach walks
- •Local artificial reefs off Orange Beach that concentrate snapper and grouper
Wildlife
Bottlenose dolphins, Sea turtles and a variety of seabirds (pelicans, terns)
Conservation Note
Fishing here follows strict state and federal regulations—respect size and bag limits, use reef-safe sunscreen, and never discard gear into the water.
The Gulf Coast’s fishing culture evolved from shrimping and reef building; artificial reefs were added over decades to rebuild habitat and boost fisheries.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Migratory species like king mackerel, Milder weather for first-time anglers
Challenges: Unpredictable fronts, Cooler mornings and choppy seas
Spring brings migrating fish and comfortable boat temperatures, but watch for frontal systems that kick up seas quickly.
summer
Best for: Red snapper and reef species, Longer daylight for extended trips
Challenges: High heat and sun exposure, Peak season crowds and seasonal closures for some species
Summer is prime for table fish and long charters; hydrate, apply reef-safe sunscreen, and book early to secure a slot.
fall
Best for: Cobia and amberjack, Calmer seas and stable weather windows
Challenges: Hurricane remnants can disrupt schedules, Cooling water changes fish patterns
Fall often provides steady conditions and active offshore species, but keep an eye on storm forecasts.
winter
Best for: Tougher anglers seeking less competition, Lower marina rates and quieter docks
Challenges: Cooler air and water temps, Some species move offshore or slow down
Winter trips are quieter and can still produce good catches for anglers willing to bundle up and tolerate shorter daylight.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Polarized sunglassesEssential
Reduces glare and helps you spot birds and bait on the water.
Motion-sickness medication or bandsEssential
Prevents nausea and lets you focus on fishing rather than discomfort.
Rubber-soled shoesEssential
Improves traction on wet decks and helps when handling fish.
Reef-safe sunscreen & sun hatEssential
Protects skin during long runs and minimizes environmental impact.
Common Questions
How many people fit on the Summer Hunter?
The Summer Hunter is limited to six people per private charter.
Are fishing licenses included?
Yes—fishing licenses are provided as part of the charter package.
What’s included in the price?
Bait, tackle, rods and reels, fishing licenses, and basic amenities (A/C cabin, fridge). Food and drinks are not included but available at the Dock Store.
Can beginners join?
Absolutely—crew members teach basics and handle much of the technical work if you prefer.
Is fish cleaning available?
Yes—fish cleaning is available for an additional fee charged per pound; the charter office can explain current rates.
Are tips and fuel surcharges included?
No—customary deckhand tips (18–20%) and occasional fuel surcharges are not included in the base rate.
What to Pack
Sunscreen, motion-sickness meds, rubber-soled shoes, polarized sunglasses — protection, comfort, and visibility are essential.
Did You Know
Alabama’s Gulf waters include a network of artificial reefs—sunk vessels and concrete structures—designed to boost habitat and improve sportfishing opportunities.
Quick Travel Tips
Book morning slots for calmer seas; bring cash for tips and cleaning; check weather the night before; confirm your pickup time with the charter office.
Local Flavor
After a day on the water, head to The Wharf or The Gulf for Gulf seafood and cold beer; stop by Flora-Bama for live music and a true local scene if you’re willing to cross the state line.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Pensacola International Airport (PNS) ~45–60 minutes; meeting point: Zeke’s Landing Marina, 26619 Perdido Beach Blvd; driving distance: 0–30 minutes from Orange Beach hotels; cell service: reliable near shore, spotty offshore; permits: fishing license provided onboard.
Sustainability Note
Use reef-safe sunscreen, follow bag and size limits, pack out all trash, and avoid releasing bait and tackle near sensitive habitats.