Fishing For Red Snapper: Orange Beach, Al

Situated along the scenic Gulf Coast, Orange Beach is a prime destination for fishing, offering numerous locations and a diverse array of species to target. Among these, the prized red snapper stands out as the most popular fish to catch. Whether you're an experienced angler or a beginner looking to embark on a memorable fishing adventure, Orange Beach's rich fishing grounds and favorable regulations make it an ideal location to pursue these hard-fighting and delicious fish.

What is the Bag Limit for Red Snapper?

In Alabama, the bag limit for red snapper in federal waters is two per person per day. This limit is strictly enforced to ensure the sustainability of the red snapper population. Always check for any specific area regulations or temporary changes that might differ from the general rule.

What is the Size Limit?

Red snapper must be at least 16 inches in length to be harvested. This size limit helps protect juvenile fish and ensure they reach maturity and contribute to the population.

Special Tagging Program

Alabama also participates in a tagging program where anglers who catch tagged red snapper are encouraged to report the tag number to the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) for research purposes. Participating in this program helps support conservation efforts and provides valuable data on red snapper populations.

Do I Need a Fishing License?

Yes, anglers aged 16 and older are required to have a valid Alabama fishing license to fish for red snapper. Licenses can be obtained online through the ADCNR website or from local authorized retailers.

When is Red Snapper Season?

The red snapper season in federal waters typically opens in early June and lasts for a limited time, often around 40-50 days, but these dates can vary each year based on fish stock assessments and management decisions. In Alabama state waters, the season can also vary, and sometimes there may be additional days open for fishing outside of the federal season.

Where to Catch Red Snapper

Red snapper can be found in various offshore habitats around Orange Beach, including artificial reefs, shipwrecks, and natural bottom structures. Some popular areas to target red snapper include the numerous artificial reefs deployed by the Alabama Marine Resources Division, as well as natural reefs in the Gulf of Mexico.

Methods

Bait Fishing

Red snapper can be caught using live or cut bait such as squid, cigar minnows, and menhaden. Fishing near reefs, wrecks, and other structures can be particularly productive for bait fishing.

Artificial Lures

Anglers also have success using artificial lures such as jigs and soft plastic baits. Targeting structures and employing vertical jigging techniques can be effective with artificial lures.

Deep-Sea Fishing

Orange Beach offers excellent opportunities for deep-sea fishing. Chartering a boat and heading offshore to deeper waters provides ideal conditions for targeting red snapper, with experienced captains guiding you to the best spots.

Reef Fishing

Fishing near the numerous artificial and natural reefs around Orange Beach can be productive for red snapper. Using live or cut bait, and dropping lines near the structure can yield good results.

Book Your Orange Beach Red Snapper Trip

Red snappers are highly sought after, and Orange Beach is a great spot to target this species. If you’re looking to fish for red snapper, consider booking a trip with one of the local and professional fishing guides through our Orange Beach red snapper charters. For more details about fishing in Orange Beach, and other useful tips, read our updated Fishing in Orange Beach guide.