Damn Good Crab Fishing Charters In Orange Beach

Check real-time availability and compare rates on Orange Beach crab fishing trips. Confidently book your next day on the water.

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Recently Booked Crab Fishing Charters In Orange Beach, Al

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore Fishing Charter in Orange Beach

Hooked On Fun: 2hr Kid Fishing

94% (18)
25 ft 1 - 6 People From $350
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Orange Beach

Family Fun ***CATCH & RELEASE***

94% (18)
26 ft 1 - 6 People From $450

“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 Orange Beach

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)

Other Trips in Orange Beach

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Orange Beach

6 Hour PM Bottom Fishing & Trolling Trip

100% (10)
42 ft 1 - 18 People From $1,750
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Orange Beach

4 Hr PM Fishing Trip

100% (10)
38 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,000
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in Orange Beach

Orange Beach Hook Up!

100% (3)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $350
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Orange Beach

Extended Dropping & Trolling

100% (12)
40 ft 1 - 16 People From $3,000
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore Fishing Charter in Orange Beach

Inshore Orange Beach Action- 22'

60% (5)
22 ft 1 - 4 People From $650
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Orange Beach

Orange Beach Super Trip

60% (5)
31 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,750
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Orange Beach

4 Hour Inshore/Nearshore Trip

100% (6)
27 ft 1 - 4 People From $850
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Orange Beach

Inshore Magic - 31'

60% (5)
31 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,000
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Orange Beach

Bull Reds, Kings, & Jacks (Winter)

60% (5)
30 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,200
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Orange Beach

Orange Beach Snapper Slammer- 30'

60% (5)
30 ft 1 - 12 People From $1,500
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore Fishing Charter in Orange Beach

4 People Inshore/Nearshore Special!

100% (19)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $400
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Orange Beach

Orange Beach Inshore: Reel Fun

100% (6)
27 ft 1 - 4 People From $420

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Everything to Know About Booking an Orange Beach crab fishing charter

What are the best crab fishing charters in Orange Beach?

The best crab fishing charters in Orange Beach are:

Why should I book a crab fishing charter in Orange Beach with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 2 crab trips in Orange Beach, and the most popular trips in the area are Hooked on Fun: 2hr Kid Fishing guided by Donald and Family Fun ***CATCH & RELEASE*** guided by Donald.

Our guides in Orange Beach are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 3716 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 crab guides / fishing lessons in Orange Beach? Check out our beginner and family friendly crab guides in Orange Beach.

What types of crab fishing charters are common in Orange Beach?

Nearshore fishing is the most popular type of fishing for crab in Orange Beach as well as inshore fishing.

The most common fishing techniques in Orange Beach are bottom fishing, drift fishing, and light tackle fishing but live bait fishing is popular as well.

How much do Orange Beach crab fishing charters cost?

Prices for crab in Orange Beach can range anywhere from about $375 to $525, but the average price for a half day trip for crab in Orange Beach is $450.

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 crab fishing in Orange Beach?

The most popular season for crab fishing in Orange Beach is summer, and most anglers book their trips 13 days in advance.

Do I need a Orange Beach fishing license for crab and what are the bag limits for crab in Orange Beach?

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

What is crab fishing in Orange Beach all about?


In Orange Beach, Alabama, crabbing is a beloved pastime and a cherished tradition among locals and visitors alike. The area's pristine coastal waters teem with blue crabs, one of the most sought-after species for crabbing enthusiasts. Blue crabs are prized for their sweet, succulent meat and are a staple in Gulf Coast cuisine, making them a popular target for crabbers of all ages. From casting crab traps off piers and docks to wading in shallow waters with dip nets, there are various methods employed by crabbers in Orange Beach to catch these delectable crustaceans.

One popular spot for crabbing in Orange Beach is the back bays, estuaries, and tidal creeks that wind through the area's marshy landscapes. These tranquil waters provide ideal habitat for blue crabs, with abundant submerged vegetation and muddy bottoms where crabs can be found foraging for food. Anglers can set crab traps baited with chicken necks, fish heads, or other natural baits along the shoreline or drop dip nets into the water to scoop up crabs as they scuttle along the bottom. Crabbing in Orange Beach offers a leisurely and rewarding experience, allowing anglers to connect with nature while harvesting their own fresh seafood.

Whether enjoyed as a family activity or a solo adventure, crabbing in Orange Beach offers a chance to immerse oneself in the coastal lifestyle and enjoy the simple pleasures of the Gulf. From the excitement of checking traps and nets to the satisfaction of hauling in a bounty of blue crabs, crabbing provides a memorable experience for anglers of all skill levels. With its abundant waters and scenic surroundings, Orange Beach remains a premier destination for crabbers seeking to indulge in the time-honored tradition of harvesting fresh Gulf seafood straight from the source.

What are the most popular months to fish for crab in Orange Beach?


In Orange Beach, Alabama, crabbing is a year-round activity, with different seasons bringing varied opportunities for anglers to catch blue crabs, the most sought-after species in the area. However, the peak crabbing season typically occurs during the warmer months, from late spring through early fall. During this time, blue crabs are more active and abundant in Orange Beach's coastal waters, making it prime time for crabbers to set traps, drop nets, or even simply use bait lines to catch these delicious crustaceans.

Spring and summer are especially fruitful seasons for crabbing in Orange Beach, as warmer water temperatures stimulate increased crab activity and feeding. Crabbers often find success by targeting shallow waters, marshy areas, and tidal creeks where blue crabs congregate to feed and breed. As the weather warms up, blue crabs become more active and migrate closer to the shoreline, providing anglers with ample opportunities to harvest these tasty crustaceans.

While crabbing can be enjoyed year-round in Orange Beach, the fall and winter months may offer slightly fewer opportunities due to cooler water temperatures and decreased crab activity. However, dedicated crabbers can still find success by targeting deeper waters, channels, and areas with consistent tidal flow where blue crabs may seek refuge during colder weather. With its mild climate and diverse coastal habitats, Orange Beach provides crabbers with ample opportunities to enjoy the tradition of crabbing throughout the year, with each season offering its own unique challenges and rewards.

What techniques are popular for catching crab in Orange Beach?

In Orange Beach, Alabama, crab fishing techniques vary depending on personal preference, location, and the equipment available. One common method used by anglers is crab trapping, where baited traps are deployed in strategic locations along the shoreline or in shallow waters. These traps, often made of wire mesh or plastic, are designed to lure crabs inside with bait such as chicken necks, fish heads, or other natural baits. Once the crabs enter the trap to feed, they become ensnared, allowing anglers to retrieve the trap and collect their catch.

Another popular crab fishing technique in Orange Beach is dip netting, which involves using a long-handled net to scoop up crabs from the water. Anglers typically wade into shallow waters, tidal creeks, or marshy areas where blue crabs are known to congregate. By carefully maneuvering the net along the bottom or near submerged vegetation, anglers can capture crabs as they scuttle along the seafloor. Dip netting requires patience and precision, but it offers a hands-on and immersive experience for anglers of all ages.

For those seeking a more traditional approach, crabbing with bait lines or hand lines is a simple yet effective technique used in Orange Beach. Anglers tie baited lines to docks, piers, or other structures along the shoreline and wait for crabs to take the bait. Once a crab bites, anglers carefully reel in the line and use a net or crabbing tongs to capture the crab before it can escape. This method is popular among anglers looking for a relaxed and leisurely crabbing experience, as it allows them to enjoy the scenic beauty of Orange Beach while waiting for their next catch.

What other species are popular in Orange Beach?


In addition to targeting the formidable goliath grouper, anglers visiting Orange Beach, Alabama, have a wide array of other species to pursue, offering diverse and exciting fishing opportunities. One notable species is the red snapper, a prized catch known for its delicious flavor and powerful fighting ability. Found in the offshore waters of the Gulf of Mexico, red snapper are commonly targeted by anglers using bottom fishing techniques around artificial reefs, wrecks, and ledges. Anglers often use live bait such as squid, mullet, or cigar minnows, as well as cut bait or artificial lures, to entice these prized fish into striking.

Another popular target species in Orange Beach is the king mackerel, also known as kingfish, prized for its speed, strength, and aggressive strikes. King mackerel can be found nearshore and offshore in the Gulf waters, where they feed on baitfish and other prey. Anglers often troll with live bait, artificial lures, or rigged baits to target king mackerel, with peak seasons typically occurring during the warmer months. These powerful fish provide thrilling battles for anglers of all skill levels and are a sought-after catch for those exploring the waters of Orange Beach.

In addition to red snapper and king mackerel, anglers in Orange Beach can target a variety of other species, including amberjack, grouper, cobia, and Spanish mackerel, among others. Whether fishing inshore, nearshore, or offshore, anglers have ample opportunities to experience the excitement of reeling in a diverse range of gamefish in Orange Beach's productive waters. With its rich marine ecosystem and abundance of fish species, Orange Beach remains a premier destination for anglers seeking unforgettable fishing adventures along Alabama's Gulf Coast.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Great Trip Donald is very good at what he does. We had a Great Time and caught a lot of fish.

    William S. | October 7, 2024

    Trip: Hooked on Fun: 2hr Kid Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Don was awesome! we had a 4 and 7 year olds and he was very attentive to both. he wasn't overbearing like some captions and let us fish, but was on it if someone needed help. If you have kids and want to finish I highly recommend this charter!

    Jeff K. | July 30, 2024

    Trip: Family Fun ***CATCH & RELEASE***

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip with Captain Donald!! We caught a lot of fish and had a great time!! Highly recommend!!

    James L. | July 17, 2024

    Trip: Family Fun ***CATCH & RELEASE***

  • ★★★★★
    We loved Captain Ty. He went out of his way to accommodate us and we would definitely book with him again!

    Lisa M. | July 6, 2024

    Trip: Hooked on Fun: 2hr Kid Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Donald was awesome! Great with conversation and helping the kids out. Definitely recommend him for your next fishing trip!

    Dennis B. | May 28, 2024

    Trip: Hooked on Fun: 2hr Kid Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    This was a great trip!! Donald was amazing with our kids! Very patient and kind

    Haley C. | July 24, 2023

    Trip: Family Fun ***CATCH & RELEASE***

  • ★★★★★
    Did a good job everyone enjoyed the trip.

    Gary D. | July 11, 2023

    Trip: Family Fun ***CATCH & RELEASE***

  • ★★★★★
    We had Donald’s assistant and he gave us an amazing experience! Our family has been coming to the beach for many years and this was one of our favorite activities ever!!

    Matthew H. | June 8, 2023

    Trip: Hooked on Fun: 2hr Kid Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great time out fishing with Captain Don today! Group of 5 adults and we all caught several fish. We all felt safe and everything was well maintained. The views of course were amazing! Will definitely use him again next time we are in Gulf Shores area.

    Shawna P. | May 14, 2023

    Trip: Family Fun ***CATCH & RELEASE***

What's biting in Orange Beach?

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