Red Snapper Mornings and Back Bay Drifts with Off The Hook Charters- I
All Ages • Up to 4 Passengers • 24' Kennner
Dawn at the end of the peninsula arrives with a hush, then a flicker: a silver chop on Mobile Bay, pelicans pacing the slips like old captains, and the Gulf itself breathing beyond the breakwater. Rod guides ping as they’re clipped into holders. A cooler lid thunks shut. The tide leans west and dares you to follow. Down here at Fort Morgan Marina, the Gulf makes its own weather—and your day on the water starts with that small thrill that anything could happen.
Trail Wisdom
Beat seasickness early
If you’re prone to motion sickness, take medication 30–60 minutes before departure and keep your eyes on the horizon during the run.
Dress for the Gulf sun
Wear a UPF shirt, hat, and polarized sunglasses; reapply reef-safe sunscreen often—reflection off the water doubles exposure.
Bring a cooler—no glass
Pack drinks and snacks in a small cooler with ice and leave glass at home; bring extra space to take fillets with you after fish cleaning.
Wear non-marking deck shoes
Closed-toe, non-marking soles grip better and keep the deck tidy while you’re moving around during hookups.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Walk the brick ramparts at Fort Morgan State Historic Site for bay views and Civil War history.
- •Ride the Mobile Bay Ferry to Dauphin Island and visit the Estuarium for a quick marine-life primer.
Wildlife
Bottlenose dolphins, Brown pelicans
Conservation Note
Alabama’s extensive artificial reef program supports healthy fish populations—respect size/bag limits, dispose of line properly, and never feed wildlife.
Fort Morgan guarded the entrance to Mobile Bay and figured prominently in the 1864 Civil War Battle of Mobile Bay.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Inshore speckled trout, Redfish along oyster bars
Challenges: Windy fronts, Variable water clarity
Warming bays light up the grass flats and points; watch tides to find moving water and bait activity.
summer
Best for: Red snapper near reefs, Early-morning inshore action
Challenges: Heat and strong sun, Afternoon pop-up storms
Prime time for nearshore runs to artificial reefs and swift dawn sessions before the heat sets in.
fall
Best for: Consistent inshore bites, Light crowds
Challenges: Shorter daylight, Occasional north winds
Cooler temps and clear water make for excellent sight-fishing on the flats and steady bay action.
winter
Best for: Clear-water flats, Calm, crisp mornings
Challenges: Cool temps, Fewer nearshore options
When conditions align, winter clarity can be excellent inshore; dress warm and target midday warming trends.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Polarized SunglassesEssential
Cuts glare to spot bait, fish wakes, and reef edges while protecting your eyes.
UPF Sun Hoodie or Long-Sleeve ShirtEssential
Provides breathable, all-day sun protection in high UV conditions.
Non-Marking Deck Shoes
Improves traction on a wet deck and keeps the boat scuff-free.
Small Soft Cooler with Ice PacksEssential
Keeps drinks cold and gives you a clean place to transport your cleaned fillets after the trip.
Common Questions
Do I need a fishing license?
No. Your license is included in the charter—no additional purchase required.
Can I keep my catch?
Yes, within current state regulations for size and bag limits. The crew will clean your fish at the dock.
Is this charter good for kids and beginners?
Yes. The trip is family-friendly and designed for small groups of up to four, with patient instruction and short runs.
Can I bring alcohol on board?
You may bring drinks in cans or plastic, but no glass containers are allowed.
What if the weather looks bad?
The captain monitors conditions and may reschedule or cancel for safety; you’ll be contacted with options if the forecast turns.
Is there a restroom on the boat?
This 24-foot center console typically has no onboard restroom; use marina facilities before departure.
What to Pack
Polarized sunglasses for spotting fish and reducing glare; UPF sun shirt and hat to manage intense Gulf sun; non-marking deck shoes for safe traction on a wet deck; a small cooler with ice for drinks and room to carry your cleaned fillets home.
Did You Know
Alabama manages one of the largest artificial reef programs in the United States—thousands of structures offshore from Gulf Shores and Orange Beach have created a world-class red snapper fishery.
Quick Travel Tips
Arrive 20–30 minutes early to park, check in, and use marina facilities; book well ahead for red snapper season as slots go fast; if coming from Dauphin Island, factor in Mobile Bay Ferry schedules and weather delays; pack cans or plastic bottles only—no glass allowed on board.
Local Flavor
Refuel at Tacky Jacks Fort Morgan for shrimp po’boys and hushpuppies with bay views, or head back into Gulf Shores for a cold pint at Big Beach Brewing. If you’ve got fresh fillets, call ahead—some local spots will cook your catch for a small fee.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airports: Pensacola (PNS, ~1 hr 15 min) or Mobile (MOB, ~1 hr 30 min). Trailhead/Marina: Fort Morgan Marina, ~22 miles west of Gulf Shores along AL-180. Cell Service: Generally good near shore; can be spotty offshore. Permits: Fishing licenses are included; follow size and bag limits set by Alabama Marine Resources.
Sustainability Note
Practice responsible harvest—keep only what you’ll eat, respect seasonal regulations, and pack out every piece of trash. Recycle or properly dispose of fishing line to protect seabirds and dolphins.
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