Damn Good Spanish Mackerel Fishing Charters In Gulf Shores

Check real-time availability and compare rates on Gulf Shores spanish mackerel fishing trips. Confidently book your next day on the water.

Choose a Date
4.89/5 Average Rating

Damn Good Guides

Experts Available 24/7

100% Weather Guarantee

Recently Booked Spanish Mackerel Fishing Charters In Gulf Shores, Al

Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Gulf Shores

Inshore/Nearshore Experience

100% (12)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $350
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Gulf Shores

4 Hour Trip

100% (8)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $550
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Gulf Shores

Offshore Jigging / Trolling

100% (5)
35 ft 1 - 6 People From $950
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Gulf Shores

3 Hour Inshore Nearshore

100% (17)
24 ft 1 - 12 People From $450
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Gulf Shores

3 Hour Inshore/NearShore

100% (8)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $450
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in Gulf Shores

Gulf Shores Hook-Up

100% (3)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $350

Top Types of Spanish Mackerel Trips in Gulf Shores

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and look forward to getting you out on the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

Target Species in Gulf Shores

View Full Species Seasonality Chart »
  • Get it while it's HOT!
  • This species is in play.
  • You might get lucky (as long as things are in-season).
  • Couldn't tell ya! (no data)

More Spanish Mackerel Fishing Charters In Gulf Shores, Al

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Gulf Shores

Gulf Coast Bites By The Shore

100% (12)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $350
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Gulf Shores

"Gettin’ Jiggy" Inshore Combo

100% (6)
22 ft 1 - 4 People From $350
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Gulf Shores

4hr Gulf Shores Trolling - 34’

100% (8)
34 ft 1 - 6 People From $750
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Gulf Shores

6 Hr Federal Waters Snapper Trip

100% (8)
34 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,400
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Gulf Shores

4 Hour Trolling Trip

100% (1)
36 ft 1 - 6 People From $900
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Gulf Shores

All Day Trolling/Bottom Fishing

88% (8)
60 ft 1 - 22 People From $2,800
See All Spanish Mackerel Trips in Gulf Shores

Need a Place to Stay?

Everything to Know About Booking a Gulf Shores spanish mackerel fishing charter

What are the best spanish mackerel fishing charters in Gulf Shores?

Why should I book a spanish mackerel fishing charter in Gulf Shores with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 125 spanish mackerel trips in Gulf Shores, and the most popular trips in the area are Inshore/Nearshore Experience guided by Marty, 4 Hour Trip guided by Bill, and Gulf Shores Hook-Up guided by Bradley.

Our guides in Gulf Shores are rated a 4.89 out of 5 based on 3806 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are 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 spanish mackerel guides / fishing lessons in Gulf Shores? Check out our beginner and family friendly spanish mackerel guides in Gulf Shores.

What types of spanish mackerel fishing charters are common in Gulf Shores?

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular type of fishing for spanish mackerel in Gulf Shores as well as nearshore fishing, inshore fishing, and jetty fishing.

The most common fishing techniques in Gulf Shores are trolling, bottom fishing, and light tackle fishing but live bait fishing and heavy tackle fishing are popular as well.

How much do Gulf Shores spanish mackerel fishing charters cost?

Prices for spanish mackerel in Gulf Shores can range anywhere from about $600 to $4,900, but the average price for a half day trip for spanish mackerel in Gulf Shores is $1,087. The average price for a full day trip for spanish mackerel in Gulf Shores is $3,340.

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 spanish mackerel fishing in Gulf Shores?

The most popular season for spanish mackerel fishing in Gulf Shores is summer, and most anglers book their trips 44 days in advance.

Do I need a Gulf Shores fishing license for spanish mackerel and what are the bag limits for spanish mackerel in Gulf Shores?

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

What is spanish mackerel fishing in Gulf Shores all about?

In Gulf Shores, Alabama, Spanish mackerel fishing is a popular activity among anglers seeking fast-paced action and delicious catches. Spanish mackerel, known for their speed and agility, inhabit the nearshore waters of the Gulf of Mexico, making them readily accessible to anglers fishing from boats, piers, or even the shoreline. These sleek and silvery fish are prized for their firm, flavorful flesh, making them a favorite target for both recreational and commercial fishermen in Gulf Shores.

Fishing for Spanish mackerel in Gulf Shores typically involves trolling or casting techniques nearshore, targeting areas with abundant baitfish, such as schools of mullet or menhaden, which attract hungry mackerel. Anglers often use small spoons, jigs, or shiny lures that mimic the appearance and movement of baitfish to entice strikes from Spanish mackerel. Additionally, anglers may use live bait such as shrimp or small baitfish to attract mackerel, especially when fishing from piers or the shoreline.

The peak seasons for Spanish mackerel in Gulf Shores typically occur during the warmer months, from spring through early fall, when water temperatures are optimal for their activity. During these times, Spanish mackerel can be found in large numbers nearshore, feeding voraciously on baitfish and providing anglers with plenty of opportunities for exciting catches. Whether fishing from a boat, pier, or the surf, anglers in Gulf Shores can enjoy the thrill of pursuing Spanish mackerel and the satisfaction of reeling in these fast and feisty fish from the sparkling waters of the Gulf Coast.

What are the most popular months to fish for spanish mackerel in Gulf Shores?

In Gulf Shores, Alabama, Spanish mackerel seasons follow a distinct pattern influenced by various environmental factors such as water temperature, currents, and migration patterns. While Spanish mackerel can be found in the waters off Gulf Shores year-round, their presence may vary depending on seasonal changes and other factors. Typically, the peak seasons for encountering Spanish mackerel in Gulf Shores occur during the warmer months, particularly in spring and summer, when water temperatures are optimal for their activity.

During the warmer months, Spanish mackerel migrate closer to the coastline and may inhabit shallower waters, making them more accessible to anglers fishing from boats, piers, or the shoreline. Anglers targeting Spanish mackerel during this time often focus their efforts around areas with abundant baitfish, such as schools of mullet or menhaden, which attract hungry mackerel. As temperatures begin to cool in the fall and winter months, Spanish mackerel may migrate to deeper offshore waters or move to different areas, requiring anglers to adjust their fishing techniques and locations accordingly.

While the exact timing of Spanish mackerel seasons in Gulf Shores may vary from year to year, anglers can generally expect to encounter these fast and feisty fish during the warmer months when water temperatures are favorable for their activity. Whether trolling, casting, or jigging, anglers in Gulf Shores can enjoy the thrill of pursuing Spanish mackerel and the excitement of reeling in these agile and voracious predators from the vibrant waters of the Gulf Coast.

What techniques are popular for catching spanish mackerel in Gulf Shores?

Fishing for Spanish mackerel in Gulf Shores, Alabama, requires anglers to employ a variety of effective techniques to successfully hook into these fast and voracious fish. One popular method is trolling, where anglers use small spoons, plugs, or feathered lures behind a moving boat to mimic the appearance and movement of baitfish. Trolling allows anglers to cover a large area of water and locate schools of Spanish mackerel, particularly in nearshore areas where these fish are abundant during the warmer months.

Another productive technique for Spanish mackerel fishing in Gulf Shores is casting. Anglers use lightweight spinning or casting rods to cast small jigs, spoons, or shiny lures towards schools of actively feeding mackerel. Retrieving the lure with a fast and erratic action mimics the movement of fleeing baitfish, often triggering aggressive strikes from Spanish mackerel. This technique is especially effective when fishing from piers, jetties, or the shoreline, where mackerel may be feeding close to the surface.

Additionally, anglers targeting Spanish mackerel in Gulf Shores may also use live bait such as shrimp, small baitfish, or even cut bait to entice strikes from these predatory fish. Live bait can be fished under a bobber or free-lined in areas where mackerel are actively feeding. This technique can be particularly effective when fishing from piers or the shoreline, where anglers can cast their bait into schools of mackerel or near structures where they congregate. By mastering these specialized techniques and adapting to changing conditions, anglers in Gulf Shores can increase their chances of hooking into Spanish mackerel and enjoying a thrilling fishing experience along the vibrant Gulf Coast.

What other species are popular in Gulf Shores?

Aside from targeting Spanish mackerel, anglers exploring the waters around Gulf Shores, Alabama, have a diverse range of other species to pursue. One popular catch among anglers is the red snapper, which inhabits the reefs, wrecks, and offshore structures in the Gulf of Mexico. Red snapper are prized for their delicious white flesh and strong fighting abilities, making them a favorite target for both recreational and commercial fishermen in Gulf Shores. Anglers targeting red snapper typically use bottom fishing techniques with natural baits such as squid, cut bait, or live bait to entice strikes from these prized fish.

Another sought-after species in Gulf Shores' waters is the speckled trout, also known as spotted seatrout, which can be found in the shallow flats, marshes, and bayous of the Gulf Coast. Speckled trout are known for their delicate flavor and challenging fights, making them a favorite among recreational anglers. Anglers targeting speckled trout in Gulf Shores often use live bait such as shrimp or mullet, as well as artificial lures like soft plastics or topwater plugs, to entice strikes from these elusive predators. Speckled trout can be caught year-round, providing anglers with consistent opportunities for thrilling fishing experiences.

Moreover, Gulf Shores offers opportunities to target a variety of other species such as flounder, sheepshead, black drum, and king mackerel, depending on the season and location. Whether fishing inshore, offshore, or from the surf, anglers in Gulf Shores can enjoy a wide range of fishing experiences and target a diverse array of species throughout the year. With its rich marine ecosystem and abundant fishing opportunities, Gulf Shores provides anglers with ample opportunities to enjoy the excitement of fishing in this vibrant coastal community.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Johnny and JT were great! Winter fishing is tough but we all had a great time! I would definitely book a trip with Johnny again!

    Carmel B. | November 26, 2024

    Trip: Alabama Inshore Magic

  • ★★★★★
    Bill hooked us up with Captain Clay. Three guys looking for redfish with fly rod and lures. Got one huge school of redfish and all three hooked up and boated three nice fish. Bumch of other species and got some fish for dinner. Captain Clay was great guide and would book him again

    Thomas W. | November 18, 2024

    Trip: Inshore "Catch Fish Guarantee"

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Colby was an absolute pleasure to fish with. He was waiting on us to arrive-, very personable and put us directly on the fish. Captain Colby took the time to assist my daughters while my wife and I fished, everyone had multiple landings. I have fished on the West, East and Gulf coasts and I would recommend him without hesitation. Fantastic Trip, thank you very much!

    Alexander W. | October 17, 2024

    Trip: Inshore Bash

  • ★★★★★
    Bill is very knowledgeable and put us onto multiple different kinds of fish. We had a great time.

    Jason W. | October 16, 2024

    Trip: 4 Hour Trip

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great time there was 9 of us. My two grand kids caught 6 fish between them we altogether caught 14 five different species. That evening we brought the fish to a restaurant and had a great dinner. Thanks again to captin Bob and mate Gabby.

    Dan L. | October 15, 2024

    Trip: 4 hr PM trolling trip

  • ★★★★★
    My wife and I had a great time with Bill!

    Wesley Y. | September 25, 2024

    Trip: 2 Hour Quick Trip

  • ★★★★★
    In all of the trips we've taken I don't think we could have gotten a better captain an first mate. They helped us an with out hesitation, especially my 87 year father. And they did so on a way as to not hurt his pride. With their my pops pulled this beast up to boat. Couldn't give them a greater recommendation... Thanks Bryn and Ben

    Jeffrey W. | September 24, 2024

    Trip: 8hr bottom fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Bryan did a fantastic job!! Made sure everyone had lots of fun.

    Kenneth F. | September 21, 2024

    Trip: 6-Hour bottom fishing trip

  • ★★★★★
    Hey Captain Experiences! Captain Eddie and Fisher are a great crew. Captain Eddie did his best to get us on fish and he did, we just had trouble with the dolphins stealing our bait. As much as the dolphins are cute and cool to see, they can be annoying to say the least. Fisher was very informative, not only about fish and dolphins, but also about how weather and moon cycles play out into catching fish as well. The boat is a very nice 55 for boat. Very clean and in top notch condition for the year! We recommend Captain Eddie and Fisher very highly. When we come back to Gulf shores, we will be calling on Captain Experiences, Captain Eddie and Fisher. We feel we have made two new friends. Thanks for the great and fun time guys. Bill

    William H. | September 18, 2024

    Trip: 6-Hour Bottom/Trolling - 55' Gillman

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Pat provided a memory filled deep water 3 hour fishing trip for my friend and I...caught a variety of fish doing catch and release...enjoyed the beauty of the gulf...and plenty of shaded sunshine...looking forward to our next return trip to go out again. 2 TOMS FROM LOUISIANA

    Thomas B. | September 15, 2024

    Trip: Orange Beach Inshore: Reel Fun

  • ★★★★★
    Will and his deck hand were great. We did not catch anything but Will did all he could do.

    Douglas J. | September 14, 2024

    Trip: Half Day Trolling - 30' Albemarle

  • ★★★★★
    Jamie and his son were a blast 10/10 would recommend booking as soon as possible

    Brandon B. | September 13, 2024

    Trip: Gulf Coast Bites by the Shore

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip with a great captain! We had a blast!

    Kristie B. | September 9, 2024

    Trip: Gulf Shores Hook-Up

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great time. Will return on our next trip to gulf shores!

    Cassi W. | September 3, 2024

    Trip: 3 hour inshore nearshore

  • ★★★★★
    Jamie was a wonderful guide, very knowledgeable, super easy going and 100% knows where the fish are, will for sure be booking again on the next vacation! If you’re looking for a great fishing experience with the family that doesn’t break the bank, this is 100% the trip you want!

    John P. | August 31, 2024

    Trip: Gulf Coast Bites by the Shore

  • ★★★★★
    James our captain today did a great job in finding an assortment of fish for us. He worked diligently to assure we had lots of action. It was a great day on the water and we will return next year.

    Daniel T. | August 27, 2024

    Trip: Inshore/Nearshore Experience

  • ★★★★★
    My family thoroughly enjoyed themselves. The captain for the boat and the young man that helped them with catching the fish was wonderful and worked so hard to help everyone have an excellent time. We will definitely use this company again for fishing trips!

    Lendy H. | August 25, 2024

    Trip: Fish OBA

  • ★★★★★
    Crew was Tristin & Gabby Rate 10 out 10 Both where the best crew I have had over

    Bob S. | August 23, 2024

    Trip: 4 hr PM trolling trip

  • ★★★★★
    100% recommend this charter! Captain is very knowledgable and has just as much fun as you do. You get to take home your fillets and enjoy your hard earned catch. We will be returning in the future.

    Krystal P. | August 21, 2024

    Trip: Orange Beach Half-Day Hookup

  • ★★★★★
    Enjoyed the experience!

    Amanda M. | August 18, 2024

    Trip: 4 Hrs Inshore with Capt. Hunter

What's biting in Gulf Shores?

View Spanish Mackerel 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 vetted by our team of outdoor experts who know them on a first-name basis. We hand pick each and every one of them, and our network spans all across the US 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 Spanish Mackerel Trips in Gulf Shores