facebook pixel

Damn Good Bonito Fishing Charters In Dauphin Island

Check real-time availability on Dauphin Island bonito fishing trips. Online booking | 4.86 / 5 stars | Guides from $1,103

Choose a Date
4.86/5 Average Rating

Experts Available 24/7

Licensed & Insured Guides

100% Weather Guarantee

Recently Booked Bonito Fishing Charters Near Dauphin Island, Al

Fishing in Dauphin Island

Deep Sea, Flats, Jetty, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Dauphin Island

Offshore Fishing 4-People

100% (4)
26 ft 1 - 4 People From $1,150
Fishing in Dauphin Island

Deep Sea, Jetty, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Dauphin Island

Salt Water Fishing 2-People

100% (4)
26 ft 1 - 2 People From $920
Fishing in Gulf Shores

Nearshore Fishing Charter near Dauphin Island

Reel In Fun With Captain Chase

86% (7)
60 ft 1 - 22 People From $1,500
Fishing in Gulf Shores

Deep Sea Fishing Charter near Dauphin Island

12 Hour Deep Sea

86% (7)
29 ft 1 - 6 People From $3,000
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed / operated by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Orange Beach

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter near Dauphin Island

Epic Deep Sea- 40'

100% (10)
40 ft 1 - 14 People From $3,000
Fishing in Orange Beach

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter near Dauphin Island

Fish OBA

100% (5)
38 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,000

Most Popular Types of Bonito Trips in Dauphin Island

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond to provide you an incredible trip, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and about empowering people to find the perfect-match guide for the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

More Bonito Fishing Charters Near Dauphin Island, Al

Fishing in Orange Beach
Fishing in Orange Beach
Fishing in Orange Beach
trip description for Four Hour Trolling Trip in Orange Beach

This is a family friendly fun trip that's great for beginners. We target King Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel, Bonita, Jack Crevalle and whatever else mite bite the hook! Read More

Nearshore Fishing Charter near Dauphin Island

Four Hour Trolling Trip

NEW
39 ft 1 - 6 People From $900
Fishing in Gulf Shores
Fishing in Gulf Shores
Fishing in Gulf Shores
trip description for Ocean Thrills with Captain Chase in Gulf Shores

Climb aboard with Captain Chase and hit the water for what will be an eventful day of fishing in Orange Beach, Alabama! You’ll be targeting Bonito, Cobia, Kingfish, and Spanish Mackerel as you fish from Captain Chase’s beautiful 60-foot sportfisher. This beast is outfitted with almost everything you could imagine, including air conditioning, a fighting chair, fishfinder, live bait well, kitchen, flat-screen TV, and a new sound system (Bluetooth available!). You can fit as many as 22 people on these trips! So make sure you bring some good company. These trips are great for anglers of all ages and skill levels. Captain Chase loves teaching the little ones about the fish that inhabit these waters. Don’t forget to bring food and drinks for the day (you can store them in the boat’s refrigerator), sunscreen, a hat, and a cooler to take home your day’s catch. Captain Chase will provide all rods, reels, tackle, and lures. Live bait is prepared before or during the trip and is included in the trip price. You will also have a first mate on board to help you at all times. Let new fishing adventures begin with Captain Chase! Read More

Nearshore Fishing Charter near Dauphin Island

Ocean Thrills With Captain Chase

86% (7)
60 ft 1 - 22 People From $1,200
Fishing in Orange Beach
Fishing in Orange Beach
Fishing in Orange Beach
trip description for Orange Beach Mixed Bag in Orange Beach

Have a great experience trolling for Wahoo, Spanish Mackerel, King Mackerel and more with Captain Corey. After trolling to the fishing spot, you will bottom fish for snapper, triggerfish, etc. This trip is great for the whole family, especially the kids. Captain Corey specializes in all sorts of different styles and techniques! He's not a 1 hook fits all kind of fisherman! Whether it be running different trolling gear to land monster Wahoo or King Mackerel or using lite action spinning reels while catching a cooler full of mahi-mahi we’ve figured out what works best! As for bottom fishing sometimes we go from chicken rigs to sow rigs to free lining live bait! Whatever it takes to put you on the backside of a bent rod and a tight line! His boat comes loaded with all the gear you could possibly need for a successful day out on the water including all the rods, reels, tackle, bait, fishing licenses, and fish cleaning at the end of the day. So all you have to do is bring your favorite snack and drinks, your sun protection, and your camera, Captain Corey will take care of the rest! Read More

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter near Dauphin Island

Orange Beach Mixed Bag

100% (5)
38 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,125
Fishing in Orange Beach
Fishing in Orange Beach
Fishing in Orange Beach
trip description for Trolling or Bottom Fishing Orange Beach in Orange Beach

This is a family friendly fun trip that's great for beginners. Fishing Licenses and all gear are included. We are licensed in Alabama, Florida, and Federal Waters. Any species may be subject to Federal or State closures. We can either bottom fish or troll based off of your preference. Most trips will target what is in season to be kept and cleaned for you. We can also target off-season species for catch and release if you would prefer. Trolling March: Bull Redfish, Sheepshead, Spanish Mackerel Bottom January Thru December: Red Snapper, Vermillion Snapper, Triggerfish, Grouper and Amberjack April Thru November: Bull Redfish, Cobia, Spanish and King Mackerel Read More

Nearshore Fishing Charter near Dauphin Island

Trolling Or Bottom Fishing Orange Beach

NEW
39 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,350
Damn Good
A Certified Damn Good Guide is someone who goes above and beyond to show you an incredible experience on your trip. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Pensacola
Fishing in Pensacola
Fishing in Pensacola
trip description for Pensacola Fishing Frenzy in Pensacola

Head out with Captain James and for a memorable day out on the Emerald Coast! Pensacola is the perfect spot to go after exciting inshore species in the bays and canals, or venture out into the Gulf for some big catches. On this 4 to 8 -hour trip, Captain James will cruise you through the beautiful Pensacola inshores or take you up to 9 miles offshore to go after some Black Grouper, Cobia, Gag Grouper, Jack Crevalle, Mangrove Snapper, Red Snapper, Redfish, and Sheepshead. You'll be targeting these fish using light tackle or doing some bottom fishing. Don't get discouraged if the fishing is slow; Captain James knows over 950 fishing hotspots in the area so he'll get you to another one in no time for a fresh start! You’ll be fishing aboard a 26’ Glacier Bay Canyon Runner center console that can hold up to 6 guests. All ages are welcome aboard, and this vessel will get you where you need to be on the Pensacola coast with ease! She comes complete with all the essential navigational and safety equipment. Captain James will provide all rods, reels, and tackle. All you need to bring is polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and any food or drinks you might want out on the water. Book your trip and come experience world-famous Florida fishing! Read More

Deep Sea, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter near Dauphin Island

Pensacola Fishing Frenzy

100% (4)
26 ft 1 - 6 People From $800
Fishing in Orange Beach
Fishing in Orange Beach
Fishing in Orange Beach
trip description for Orange Beach 4-Hour Trolling Excursion in Orange Beach

The four hour trip is a trolling trip targeting Spanish Mackerel, King Mackerel, Bonito, and sometimes a Jack Crevalle or Redfish may bite. Read More

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter near Dauphin Island

Orange Beach 4-Hour Trolling Excursion

NEW
36 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,100
See All Bonito Trips in Dauphin Island

Need a Place to Stay?

Everything to Know About Booking a Dauphin Island bonito fishing charter

What are the best bonito fishing charters in Dauphin Island?

Why should I book a bonito fishing charter in Dauphin Island with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 9 bonito trips in Dauphin Island, and the most popular trips in the area are Offshore Fishing 4-People guided by Mike and Salt Water Fishing 2-People guided by Mike.

Our guides in Dauphin Island are rated a 4.86 out of 5 based on 3308 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are licensed, insured, and vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Looking for kid friendly bonito guides / fishing lessons in Dauphin Island? Check out our beginner and family friendly bonito guides in Dauphin Island.

What types of bonito fishing charters are common in Dauphin Island?

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular type of fishing for bonito in Dauphin Island as well as nearshore fishing, inshore fishing, and jetty fishing.

The most common fishing techniques in Dauphin Island are trolling, bottom fishing, and heavy tackle fishing but jigging and live bait fishing are popular as well.

How much do Dauphin Island bonito fishing charters cost?

Prices for bonito in Dauphin Island can range anywhere from about $1,103 to $4,945, but the average price for a half day trip for bonito in Dauphin Island is $1,594. The average price for a full day trip for bonito in Dauphin Island is $3,219.

Is booking a fishing guide worth the money?

Hiring a guide provides a number of benefits and many choose to book a fishing guide for a combination of experience, local knowledge, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

Working with experienced fishing guides who know the best local spots and techniques can dramatically increase your odds of a great day. Having someone who is on the water every day and knows the area like the back of their hand is going to give you the best chances of success.

Booking a guide is also more cost effective, especially if you only get out a handful of times per year. When you consider all of the costs you would incur on your own such as the price of a boat, maintenance, insurance, gas, high-quality gear and tackle, repairs, and more, you’ll find that DIY is sometimes not worth the expense.

Even if you’ve got a great setup already in your home waters, booking a guide also provides a great opportunity to experience new techniques, new locations, or even a chance at a new target species to knock off the bucket list.

What month is best for bonito fishing in Dauphin Island?

The most popular season for bonito fishing in Dauphin Island is summer, and most anglers book their trips 47 days in advance.

Do I need a Dauphin Island fishing license for bonito and what are the bag limits for bonito in Dauphin Island?

See here for more information on fishing licenses in Dauphin Island, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in Dauphin Island. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in Dauphin Island.

What is bonito fishing in Dauphin Island all about?

Bonito fishing in Dauphin Island offers anglers an exhilarating challenge as they target these fast and powerful pelagic fish. Known for their speed and acrobatic leaps when hooked, bonito provide an exciting angling experience that tests both skill and endurance. During the warmer months, bonito migrate along the Gulf Coast, passing by Dauphin Island in impressive numbers, presenting anglers with ample opportunities to target them.

Anglers pursuing bonito in Dauphin Island's waters often employ trolling as a primary technique. By trolling lures or rigged baits behind a moving boat, anglers cover a large area of water, increasing their chances of encountering schools of bonito. Brightly colored lures resembling small baitfish or squid are particularly effective at attracting these voracious predators. Additionally, keeping an eye out for diving birds or surface disturbances can indicate the presence of feeding bonito, allowing anglers to adjust their trolling routes accordingly for greater success.

For those seeking a more hands-on approach, casting and retrieving metal jigs or topwater plugs can be an exhilarating way to target bonito in Dauphin Island's waters. When bonito are feeding aggressively near the surface, sight casting to breaking fish or casting into feeding frenzies can result in explosive strikes and heart-pounding battles. With their remarkable speed and agility, bonito provide anglers with an unforgettable fishing experience, making them a highly prized catch for those venturing into the waters off Dauphin Island.

What are the most popular months to fish for bonito in Dauphin Island?

In Dauphin Island, the bonito fishing season is influenced by the migratory patterns of these swift pelagic fish. Typically, bonito can be found in the waters around Dauphin Island during the warmer months, particularly from late spring through early fall. As the Gulf waters begin to warm up, bonito migrate northward along the coast, passing by Dauphin Island in impressive numbers. During this period, anglers can expect increased activity as bonito feed voraciously, making them more susceptible to angling techniques.

Spring heralds the arrival of bonito to the waters off Dauphin Island as they follow baitfish migrations along the Gulf Coast. Anglers can target bonito using a variety of techniques such as trolling with lures or bait, casting and retrieving metal jigs, or even fly fishing. The warmer waters of late spring and early summer bring peak bonito fishing opportunities, with these powerful fish often found congregating around offshore reefs, oil rigs, and other underwater structures.

As summer progresses and temperatures peak, bonito fishing in Dauphin Island remains productive, albeit with some adjustments in tactics. Bonito may move offshore to deeper waters during the hottest parts of the day, seeking cooler temperatures. Anglers can capitalize on this behavior by targeting bonito during the early morning or late afternoon hours when they are more active near the surface. Adjusting fishing depths and techniques according to the changing conditions can help anglers continue to enjoy success throughout the summer bonito fishing season in Dauphin Island.

What techniques are popular for catching bonito in Dauphin Island?

In Dauphin Island, mastering the art of bonito fishing involves employing a variety of techniques to entice these swift and powerful pelagic fish. Trolling is a popular method among anglers, particularly when targeting bonito in deeper offshore waters. Anglers typically use brightly colored lures or rigged baits trailed behind a moving boat at varying depths to mimic the movement of baitfish. Adjusting trolling speeds and depths based on water conditions and the behavior of the bonito can increase the chances of a successful hookup.

Another effective technique for bonito fishing in Dauphin Island is casting and retrieving metal jigs or topwater plugs. When bonito are feeding near the surface or actively chasing baitfish, casting into the frenzy and retrieving the lure at a fast pace can trigger aggressive strikes. Anglers often choose metal jigs in flashy colors or topwater plugs that create commotion on the surface to attract the attention of bonito. This hands-on approach to bonito fishing can provide an exhilarating experience as anglers feel the explosive strikes and put their skills to the test in battling these speedy fish.

Additionally, live bait fishing can be a productive method for targeting bonito in Dauphin Island's waters. Anglers often use live baitfish such as pilchards, menhaden, or mullet rigged on a hook or under a float to entice bonito. Drifting or anchoring near known bonito feeding areas, such as reefs or current breaks, and presenting live bait in their path can yield rewarding results. Adapting to the changing conditions and employing a combination of techniques can maximize the chances of success when targeting bonito in the waters surrounding Dauphin Island.

What other species are popular in Dauphin Island?

Besides bonito, Dauphin Island offers anglers a diverse range of other species to target, adding depth and excitement to the fishing experience. One notable catch is the king mackerel, prized for its speed, agility, and delicious flesh. Found in offshore waters around Dauphin Island, king mackerel can be targeted using techniques such as trolling with live bait or artificial lures, as well as drift fishing near underwater structures and drop-offs. Anglers often find success during the cooler months when king mackerel migrate closer to shore in search of prey.

Another popular species among anglers in Dauphin Island is the red snapper, known for its striking appearance and delectable taste. Found in abundance around offshore reefs, wrecks, and artificial structures, red snapper provide anglers with thrilling battles and rewarding catches. Bottom fishing with live bait such as squid, mullet, or cut fish is a common technique for targeting red snapper, while vertical jigging and deep dropping can also be effective in deeper waters. However, anglers should be mindful of seasonal regulations and quotas when targeting red snapper in Dauphin Island's waters.

For those seeking a challenge, amberjack offer an exciting angling experience in the waters off Dauphin Island. These powerful and aggressive fish inhabit deeper offshore reefs and wrecks, where they can be targeted using heavy tackle and live bait such as small fish or squid. Vertical jigging with metal jigs or bucktail jigs can also entice amberjack to strike. With their strength and stamina, amberjack provide anglers with thrilling battles that test their skills and endurance, making them a sought-after species for those venturing into the deeper waters of Dauphin Island.

Recent Reviews of Captain Experiences

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Corey and his deck hand were so great! We caught 8 red snapper! Our family had a great time! Highly recommend!

    Molly B. with Corey H. of Orange Beach, Alabama

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great time and caught everything we could catch. The crew was knowledgeable, fun and super helpful! Definitely going again! Gavin and Ben were awesome! Highly recommend!!

    Sean S. with Tom A. of Orange Beach, Alabama

  • ★★★★★
    We had the best experience with Captain Chase and his deckhand House. We had 6 adults and 7 kids under 10 and they had an experience they’ll never forget! The boat was roomy to accommodate our group, the little ones could rest inside out of the heat and watch dvds when they needed a break, and the deck had Bluetooth and coolers for the grownups. The care and attention our group was given was top notch! We were always being helped or checked on, and they worked to make sure the kids enjoyed themselves, which meant so much to us. And of course, they knew how to find the fish! Every person in the group brought up several beautiful fish, which House expertly filleted and gave us great cooking tips! Next time we are in Alabama, we’ll absolutely book with Captain Chase again!

    Josh N. with Chase N. of Gulf Shores, Alabama

  • ★★★★★
    Capt. Corey and his 1st mate were top notch! Super engaging, friendly and informative, and they put us on the fish right away! From bottom fishing to trolling, we were reeling in the king mackerel and red snapper. When you wanted to relax, the AC cabin was a nice escape from the sun. Highly recommended!

    Tim R. with Corey H. of Orange Beach, Alabama

  • ★★★★★
    Excellent experience with Captain Corey on the Wahoodat. Half day trip for red fish, was great time and family friendly.

    Michael F. with Corey H. of Orange Beach, Alabama

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great time

    Bobby G. with Zack G. of Orange Beach, Alabama

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Mike and James (deckhand) were very friendly and engaging. They did a great job of getting us out to locations where we caught fish species like Black Tip Shark, Jack Crevalle, and Bonito. James was extremely helpful with the fishing lines (baiting, casting, storing the fish, etc.). The boat is a nice boat and below deck was nice and cool if any of us wanted to cool off for a minute between catching. All in all, it was a great trip and we look forward to more trips in the future!

    Robert L. with Mike F. of Biloxi, Mississippi

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Chase and his crew were awesome! We had a large group of 18 made up of several 12 year old boys, everyone had a blast. Shoutout to his Deckhand Brandon, man was a workhorse dealing with everything and ensuring everyone was safe and successful. Highly recommend this crew and already looking to next year's trip.

    Dustin M. with Chase N. of Gulf Shores, Alabama

  • ★★★★★
    Such a fun experience with Gavin & Ben. We would highly recommend booking a trip. We will definitely book a future trip with them!

    Lesley G. with Tom A. of Orange Beach, Alabama

  • ★★★★★
    Great deck hand, the captain put us on fish we limited out with 20 red snapper. The boat was super comfortable also. All around great trip!

    Lonnie H. with Chase N. of Gulf Shores, Alabama

  • ★★★★★
    Great time.

    Laura W. with Tristan E. of Orange Beach, Alabama

  • ★★★★★
    Awesome guides!!!

    John W. with Ryan S. of Orange Beach, Alabama

  • ★★★★★
    Experienced crew. Knowledgeable and fun

    Laura W. with Tristan E. of Orange Beach, Alabama

  • ★★★★★
    Been on several fishing charters and these guys were great. Down to earth good ol boys!

    Cindy F. with Stephen C. of Gulf Shores, Alabama

  • ★★★★★
    Top notch. Great capt. great deck hand. Will put you on the fish.

    Christopher N. with Ryan S. of Orange Beach, Alabama

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great time today with James. Learned alot today about fishing red snapper

    Erik with James C. of Pensacola, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Cory and his team were great! Enjoyed the fishing and hospitality. Thanks for everything!

    Andrew S. with Corey H. of Orange Beach, Alabama

  • ★★★★★
    Captain and deck hand were great helpful and nice made the experience exciting and fun couldn’t ask for anyone better

    Betty S. with Zack G. of Orange Beach, Alabama

  • ★★★★★
    Weren't able to make it offshore do to windy conditions and rough seas. Fished in the Bay instead.

    Gib H. with James C. of Pensacola, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great time. Really enjoyed Walt and Kenny🐬🐟

    Robert B. with Jerry W. of Gulf Shores, Alabama

What's biting in Dauphin Island?

View Bonito Fishing Reports from our damn good guides.

Didn't Find What You Were Looking For?

Our guides are Damn Good Guides, which means they’re licensed, insured and vetted by our team of outdoor experts who know them on a first-name basis. We hand pick our Damn Good Guides, and our network spans all across the country and beyond.

The proof is in the pudding, and we’re incredibly proud of our 4.9 / 5 average review score. Hit the button below to see more trip options:

See All Bonito Trips in Dauphin Island