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Damn Good River Fishing Charters In Alabama

Check real-time availability and compare rates on Alabama river fishing trip. Confidently book your next day on the water.

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Recently Booked River Fishing Charters In Alabama

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Fishing in Bon Secour

Inshore, River Fishing Charter in Bon Secour

Gulf Shores Inshore Slammin'

90% (10)
25 ft 1 - 6 People From $350

Top Species for River Fishing in Alabama

“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

Other Trips in Alabama

Fishing in Orange Beach
Fishing in Orange Beach
Fishing in Orange Beach
trip description for 5-Hour Nearshore Trip AM or PM in Orange Beach

Join Captain Doug and experience an action-packed day of fishing in Orange Beach, Alabama! You’ll be fishing aboard a gorgeous, custom-built 52’ Miller sportfishing boat that features two monster John Deere engines. The boat features a full suite of electronics to assist with efficient navigation and fish targeting. With a spacious and comfortable back deck, a sturdy tuna tower, and an enclosed wheelhouse, as well as an extra-large cabin with 6 bunks, a master bedroom, and two restrooms, this vessel is perfect for large groups like bachelor parties looking to celebrate in style. The icing on this cake is the air-conditioned interior, satellite television, and a Big Green Egg barbecue smoker. Captain Doug utilizes a wide variety of fishing techniques, including trolling, topwater lures, and deep drop fishing / jigging. Whether you are a novice or an experienced angler, he will supply all the gear and tackle necessary. On this trip specifically, you’ll be targeting Mahi Mahi / Dorado, Red Snapper (when in season), and Wahoo. If you select the morning trip you will be **trolling** from behind the boat. If you select the afternoon trip, you will be **bottom fishing**. The crew can host up to 15 passengers on a day trip and up to 8 on overnight trips. Don’t forget to bring food and drinks for the day. Captain Doug will provide all licenses, rods, reels, tackle, and lures. He will also clean and fillet your day’s catch for a small fee. Captain Doug is excited to give you a great fishing trip – it doesn’t matter if you’ve fished a hundred times or whether this is your first time taking the family fishing – there’s something for everyone to enjoy! Read More

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Orange Beach

5-Hour Nearshore Trip AM Or PM

100% (7)
52 ft 1 - 11 People From $1,500
Fishing in Orange Beach
Fishing in Orange Beach
Fishing in Orange Beach
trip description for Orange Beach Extended Offshore in Orange Beach

Join Captain Doug and experience an action-packed day of fishing in Orange Beach, Alabama! You’ll be fishing aboard a gorgeous, custom-built 52’ Miller sportfishing vessel that features two monster John Deere engines. The boat features a full suite of electronics to assist with efficient navigation and fish targeting. With a spacious and comfortable back deck, a sturdy tuna tower, and an enclosed wheelhouse, as well as an extra-large cabin with 6 bunks, a master bedroom, and two restrooms, this vessel is perfect for large groups like bachelor parties looking to celebrate in style. The icing on this cake is the air-conditioned interior, satellite television, and a Big Green Egg barbecue smoker. The crew can host up to 15 passengers on a day trip and up to 8 on overnight trips. Captain Doug utilizes a wide variety of fishing techniques, including trolling, topwater lures, and deep drop fishing / jigging. Whether you are a novice or an experienced angler, he will supply all the gear and tackle necessary. On this trip, you’ll be targeting Mahi Mahi, Red Snapper, Wahoo, and, on the 10-hour and 12-hour trips, Yellowfin Tuna. The longer you’re out on the water, the deeper you can fish, and the deeper you fish, the bigger the fish get! Captain Doug is excited to give you a great fishing trip – it doesn’t matter if you’ve fished a hundred times or whether this is your first time taking the family fishing – there’s something for everyone to enjoy! Don’t forget to bring food and drinks for the day. Captain Doug will provide all licenses, rods, reels, tackle, and lures. He will also clean and fillet your day’s catch for a small fee. Live bait is included in the trip. Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Orange Beach

Orange Beach Extended Offshore

100% (7)
52 ft 1 - 17 People From $3,000
Fishing in Gulf Shores
Fishing in Gulf Shores
Fishing in Gulf Shores
trip description for 12 Hour Bottom Fishing/Trolling 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 a variety of species (as seen above), including Amberjack, Gag Grouper, King Mackerel / Kingfish, and Wahoo, 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 bachelor parties and large gatherings with your family and friends. Don’t forget to bring food and drinks for the day (which you can store 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

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Gulf Shores

12 Hour Bottom Fishing/Trolling

88% (8)
60 ft 1 - 22 People From $4,200
Fishing in Gulf Shores
Fishing in Gulf Shores
Fishing in Gulf Shores
trip description for Deep Sea Quest: Reel & Explore 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 a variety of species (as seen above), as you fish from Captain Chase’s beautiful 60-foot sportfisher. Laid-back vibe. 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!). Bring food if you want to grill. You can fit as many as 22 people on these trips! So make sure you bring some good company. All skill levels and ages are welcome. Don’t forget to bring food and drinks for the day (which you can store 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

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Gulf Shores

Deep Sea Quest: Reel & Explore

88% (8)
60 ft 1 - 22 People From $3,500
Fishing in Gulf Shores
Fishing in Gulf Shores
Fishing in Gulf Shores
trip description for All Day Trolling/Bottom Fishing 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 a variety of species (as seen above), including Amberjack, Gag Grouper, King Mackerel / Kingfish, and Wahoo, 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 bachelor parties and large gatherings with your family and friends. Don’t forget to bring food and drinks for the day (which you can store 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. Come on down to Orange Beach and make some memories with Captain Chase! Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Gulf Shores

All Day Trolling/Bottom Fishing

88% (8)
60 ft 1 - 22 People From $2,800
Fishing in Gulf Shores
Fishing in Gulf Shores
Fishing in Gulf Shores
trip description for Orange Beach Bottomfishing Blast in Gulf Shores

Explore the waters surrounding Orange Beach with Captain Chase! Captain Chase has over 20+ years of experience as a professional guide and will help you catch a boatload of fish! On this 6-hour nearshore adventure, you’ll be targeting Amberjack, Gag Grouper, Scamp Grouper, Almaco Jack, Red Snapper (when in season), 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!), and a daiquiri machine. It also has a walk-around deck and an upper sun deck. Don’t forget to bring food and drinks for the day (which you can store 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. Whatever your skill level, there’s a fish out here with your name on it! Read More

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Gulf Shores

Orange Beach Bottomfishing Blast

88% (8)
60 ft 1 - 22 People From $2,100
Fishing in Gulf Shores
Fishing in Gulf Shores
Fishing in Gulf Shores
trip description for 22-Person Private Trip in Gulf Shores

If you’re looking to pack 22 of your best family and friends on a boat, this is the trip for you! Captain Chase will show you and your group an amazing time as you troll near shore in the Gulf of Mexico. 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!), and a daiquiri machine. It also has a walk-around deck and an upper sun deck. Don’t forget to bring food and drinks for the day (which you can store 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. Come on down to Orange Beach and make some memories with Captain Chase! Read More

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Gulf Shores

22-Person Private Trip

88% (8)
60 ft 1 - 22 People From $2,000
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 in Gulf Shores

Ocean Thrills With Captain Chase

88% (8)
60 ft 1 - 22 People From $1,200
Fishing in Gulf Shores
Fishing in Gulf Shores
Fishing in Gulf Shores
trip description for Reel in Fun with Captain Chase in Gulf Shores

Come on down to Orange Beach, Alabama and make some memories with Captain Chase! You’ll be targeting Bonito, Cobia, King Mackerel, 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 (which you can store in the boat’s refrigerator), sunscreen, a hat, and a cooler to take home your day’s catch. 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 in Gulf Shores

Reel In Fun With Captain Chase

88% (8)
60 ft 1 - 22 People From $1,500
Fishing in Gulf Shores
Fishing in Gulf Shores
Fishing in Gulf Shores
trip description for Shark Fishing Trip in Gulf Shores

Prepare yourself to put up the fight of a lifetime as you embark on a shark fishing adventure with Captain Chase! You’ll be targeting Blacktip Shark, Thresher Shark, and Mako Shark on this fishing adventure. Some of these sharks can surpass 200 lbs, so make sure you bring your A-game! You’ll be fishing 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 bachelor parties and large gatherings with your family and friends. Don’t forget to bring food and drinks for the day, sunglasses, water, sunscreen, a hat, and a cooler to take home your day’s catch. Capain 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. Come on down to Orange Beach and make some memories with Captain Chase! Read More

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Gulf Shores

Shark Fishing Trip

88% (8)
60 ft 1 - 22 People From $2,100
Fishing in Orange Beach
Fishing in Orange Beach
Fishing in Orange Beach
trip description for 4 Hour Nearshore Trip - Seasonal in Orange Beach

Join Captain Doug and experience an action-packed day of fishing in Orange Beach, Alabama! You’ll be fishing aboard a gorgeous, custom-built 52’ Miller sportfishing boat that features two monster John Deere engines. The boat features a full suite of electronics to assist with efficient navigation and fish targeting. With a spacious and comfortable back deck, a sturdy tuna tower, and an enclosed wheelhouse, as well as an extra-large cabin with 6 bunks, a master bedroom, and two restrooms, this vessel is perfect for large groups like bachelor parties looking to celebrate in style. The icing on this cake is the air-conditioned interior, satellite television, and a Big Green Egg barbecue smoker. Captain Doug utilizes a wide variety of fishing techniques, including trolling, topwater lures, and deep drop fishing / jigging. Whether you are a novice or an experienced angler, he will supply all the gear and tackle necessary. On this trip specifically, you’ll be targeting Mahi Mahi / Dorado, Red Snapper (when in season), and Wahoo. The crew can host up to 15 passengers on a day trip and up to 8 on overnight trips. Don’t forget to bring food and drinks for the day. Captain Doug will provide all licenses, rods, reels, tackle, and lures. He will also clean and fillet your day’s catch for a small fee. Captain Doug is excited to give you a great fishing trip – it doesn’t matter if you’ve fished a hundred times or whether this is your first time taking the family fishing – there’s something for everyone to enjoy! Read More

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Orange Beach

4 Hour Nearshore Trip - Seasonal

100% (7)
52 ft 1 - 11 People From $1,200
Fishing in Orange Beach
Fishing in Orange Beach
Fishing in Orange Beach
trip description for Orange Beach Offshore Reef in Orange Beach

Head out with Captain Bryars and get ready for a memorable day of offshore reef fishing in the Alabama Gulf! Orange Beach is a reef fishing haven with more reefs and fish than any other destination in the Gulf. Fishing the reefs provides the opportunity to catch sought-after fish almost anywhere! On this 6 to 8-hour trip, Captain Bryars will take you up to 25 miles off the coast of Alabama to some made-made and natural reefs where you can expect to target Amberjack, Grouper, Bonito, Cobia, Grouper, King Mackerel, Snapper, and Triggerfish. To attract these picture-worthy fish you can use a variety of methods, and this boat is equipped with light tackle, artificial lures, heavy tackle, bottom fishing, and jigging. Just let Captain Bryars know what fish you want to catch and he'll get you set up with the best method and some expert guidance! A true outdoorsman, Captain Bryars grew up fishing the Gulf and has a passion for meeting new people and showing them what the Gulf has to offer. You'll be fishing aboard an impressive 30’ ProKat center console that can comfortably fit 6 anglers. Powered by twin 300 HP Yamaha engines, this sturdy craft will get you to the fish-rich reefs in a hurry! It comes with the essentials such as GPS, Fishfinder, a Live Bait Well, Outriggers and even a bathroom. Also on board is some top-notch equipment, with name brand rods from Fin Nor, Penn, Shimano, and Daiwa, and deep drop electric reels for fishing over 200 ft deep. Captain Bryars provides all rods, reels, and tackle, live bait and fishing licenses. All you need to bring is sunglasses, sunscreen, and any snacks, drinks and motion sickness relief you might need. Captain Bryars will also clean any keepers for no additional cost. Feel free to take your young ones along; Captain Bryars knows how to keep them entertained with some exciting fishing! Read More

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Orange Beach

Orange Beach Offshore Reef

100% (1)
32 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,400

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Everything to Know About Booking an Alabama river fishing charter

What are the best river fishing charters in Alabama?

The best river fishing charters in Alabama are:

Why should I book a river fishing charter in Alabama with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 1 river trip in Alabama: Gulf Shores Inshore Slammin' guided by Shawn.

Our guides in Alabama are rated a 4.6 out of 5 based on 3505 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 river guides / fishing lessons in Alabama? Check out our beginner and family friendly river guides in Alabama.

What types of river fishing charters are common in Alabama?

The most commonly sought after species for river fishing are: 1. speckled trout, 2. sheepshead, 3. redfish, 4. flounder, and 5. florida pompano.

The most common fishing techniques in Alabama are artificial lure fishing, topwater fishing, and trolling but sight casting and live bait fishing are popular as well.

How much do Alabama river fishing charters cost?

Prices for river fishing in Alabama can range anywhere from about $395 to $655, but the average price for a half day trip for river fishing in Alabama is $525.

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 river fishing in Alabama?

The most popular season for river fishing in Alabama is summer, and most anglers book their trips 6 days in advance.

Do I need a Alabama fishing license and what are the bag limits in Alabama?

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

What is river in Alabama all about?

Alabama is blessed with a network of rivers that weave through its diverse landscapes, offering both recreational opportunities and ecological richness. Among the most prominent is the Alabama River, which flows for over 300 miles from its origins in the Appalachian Mountains to its confluence with the Tombigbee River near Mobile. This river plays a crucial role in the state's history and economy, supporting a variety of activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. Anglers flock to the Alabama River for its abundant fish populations, including largemouth bass, striped bass, and catfish, making it a popular destination for both casual fishing outings and competitive tournaments.

The Mobile-Tensaw Delta, often referred to as America's Amazon, is another iconic feature of Alabama's river systems. This vast wetland complex, formed by the Mobile, Tensaw, and Blakeley rivers, among others, encompasses over 250,000 acres of swamps, marshes, and waterways. It is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity, serving as a critical habitat for numerous species of fish, birds, and mammals. Fishing in the Mobile-Tensaw Delta is a unique experience, with anglers targeting species such as speckled trout, redfish, and flounder amidst the delta's labyrinth of channels and submerged vegetation.

In northern Alabama, the Tennessee River flows through a series of reservoirs including Wheeler Lake, Wilson Lake, and Pickwick Lake, collectively known as the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) lakes. These lakes, formed by dams along the Tennessee River, are renowned for their excellent fishing opportunities. Anglers come here to catch a variety of species including largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, and catfish. The TVA lakes offer diverse habitats ranging from shallow flats to deep channels, providing anglers with ample opportunities to fish year-round and enjoy the scenic beauty of northern Alabama's riverine landscapes.

What are the most popular months to go river in Alabama?

In Alabama, the changing seasons bring distinct experiences and opportunities along its rivers, catering to a variety of outdoor enthusiasts and anglers. Spring marks the beginning of a vibrant season on Alabama's rivers, as warming temperatures and increased rainfall stimulate fish activity and river flows. This time is ideal for anglers targeting species like largemouth bass and crappie, which become more active in preparation for spawning. The Alabama River, Mobile-Tensaw Delta, and Tennessee River lakes all see heightened fishing activity during this period, with anglers using techniques such as casting crankbaits, fishing with live bait, or fly fishing to capitalize on the spring feeding frenzy.

As summer arrives, Alabama's rivers become popular destinations for cooling off and enjoying recreational activities such as boating, tubing, and swimming. While fishing can slow down during the heat of the day, early mornings and evenings offer productive windows for catching fish. Anglers on the Tennessee River lakes, for example, often target bass and crappie near submerged structure and weed beds using topwater lures or jigs. In contrast, the Mobile-Tensaw Delta remains a haven for anglers seeking speckled trout and redfish, using live shrimp or artificial baits to entice these coastal species in the delta's brackish waters.

Autumn in Alabama brings cooler temperatures and spectacular foliage, transforming the state's river valleys into picturesque settings for outdoor adventures. Fishing remains excellent during this season as fish like largemouth bass and striped bass feed voraciously in preparation for winter. The Mobile-Tensaw Delta continues to offer productive fishing opportunities, with anglers targeting flounder and sheepshead near oyster bars and tidal creeks. On the Tennessee River lakes, fall fishing tournaments attract enthusiasts competing for trophy catches amidst the stunning backdrop of changing leaves and serene waters. Whether fishing from shore, a boat, or kayak, autumn in Alabama's rivers offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and rewarding angling experiences.

What techniques are popular for river in Alabama?

Alabama's rivers offer a diverse range of fishing opportunities, each presenting unique habitats and species to target throughout the year. The Alabama River, for example, is known for its expansive waters and diverse fish populations. Anglers here commonly pursue largemouth bass, striped bass, and catfish using techniques such as bottom fishing with live bait or casting crankbaits and spinnerbaits near submerged structures and river bends. The river's flow and depth variations provide ample challenges and rewards for both novice and experienced anglers alike.

The Mobile-Tensaw Delta presents a stark contrast with its labyrinthine network of waterways and expansive wetlands. This ecologically rich delta supports a thriving fishery, attracting anglers targeting species such as speckled trout, redfish, and flounder. Techniques here often involve fishing with live shrimp or artificial lures along tidal creeks, oyster bars, and marshy shorelines. Kayak fishing has become increasingly popular in the delta, allowing anglers to explore its secluded channels and shallow flats where fish congregate amidst the delta's lush vegetation.

In northern Alabama, the Tennessee River and its associated lakes, including Wheeler Lake and Wilson Lake, offer prime fishing opportunities within the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) system. These reservoirs are renowned for their bass fishing, with anglers targeting largemouth bass and smallmouth bass using techniques ranging from topwater lures and crankbaits to finesse presentations like drop-shot rigs. Crappie fishing is also productive in the deeper channels and around submerged timber, attracting anglers during both spring and fall seasons. The TVA lakes provide a scenic backdrop of rolling hills and wooded shorelines, enhancing the angling experience with opportunities for boating, camping, and exploring Alabama's natural beauty.

What species are popular for river in Alabama?

When fishing Alabama's rivers, anglers have a rich diversity of species to target, each offering its own allure and challenge depending on the location and season. The Alabama River, spanning much of the state's length, is renowned for its varied fishery. Anglers commonly pursue largemouth bass, a prized sportfish known for its aggressive strikes and size, often using techniques such as casting topwater lures or flipping jigs near submerged structures. Striped bass are another sought-after species in the Alabama River, particularly in the lower reaches near the Mobile area, where anglers deploy live bait or trolling methods to hook these powerful fish.

Moving to the Mobile-Tensaw Delta, anglers encounter a different array of species thriving in its brackish waters and extensive marshlands. Speckled trout and redfish are favorites among anglers here, known for their spirited fights and abundance in the delta's channels and flats. Techniques such as using live shrimp under popping corks or casting soft plastic baits along grass lines are effective for enticing these coastal species. Flounder also attract anglers, particularly around tidal creeks and sandy bottoms, where they can be targeted using jigging techniques or live bait presentations.

In northern Alabama, the Tennessee River and its reservoirs offer excellent fishing opportunities for bass and panfish enthusiasts. Largemouth bass and smallmouth bass are abundant in lakes like Wheeler Lake and Wilson Lake, where anglers use a variety of techniques such as crankbaits, swimbaits, and finesse rigs to entice these prized gamefish. Crappie fishing is also popular in the deeper waters and around submerged structure, with anglers targeting these tasty panfish using jigs or live minnows. Whether casting from shore, navigating the waters in a boat, or enjoying the tranquility of a kayak, Alabama's rivers provide a wealth of fishing experiences and opportunities to reel in memorable catches throughout the year.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Shawn did a great job on a tough day. Really enjoyed the experience!

    Eric . | April 22, 2024

    Trip: Gulf Shores Inshore Slammin'

  • ★★★★★
    Great afternoon fishing trip with Shawn!

    Bryan P. | September 29, 2023

    Trip: Gulf Shores Inshore Slammin'

  • ★★★★★
    We Loved Captain Shawn! He was patient, helpful and very engaging. If the fish weren’t biting in one spot he’d move to another. We caught a variety of species and was knowledgeable about every one we caught . He realized how excited I was to see the dolphins so he got them to jump in our waves from the boat. Every time we saw them he was sure to try to get them to interact with us. His boat was very nice and clean, you could tell he loved his boat. IT WAS AWESOME! We plan on a second trip with him to do offshore fishing next. We enjoyed his inshore trip and hospitality! HIGHLY RECOMMEND! One more thing… although we didn’t bring our 10 year old son I definitely would not hesitate to take him out on a Captain Shawn’s boat! He’s a family man, I could tell he would do great with younger passengers as well.

    Shannon P. | September 23, 2023

    Trip: Gulf Shores Inshore Slammin'

  • ★★★★★
    We went on a charter with shawn today and it was great. We had fun and caught a bunch of fish. He also taught us a bunch of different things about fishing. Overall this was a great trip and I would recommend it.

    Judy E. | September 3, 2023

    Trip: Gulf Shores Inshore Slammin'

  • ★★★★★
    Capt Shawn very knowledgeable. We caught a variety of species of fish. We had a great time and would go again. FYI no Cheeto or spray sunscreens on a fiberglass boat because it will stain. 😎

    Jerry S. | August 4, 2023

    Trip: Gulf Shores Inshore Slammin'

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip! Shawn put us on the fish. In addition, his knowledge and personality make him a perfect fishing guide. Will definitely use him again.

    David K. | July 3, 2023

    Trip: Gulf Shores Inshore Slammin'

  • ★★★★★
    First charter I have ever been on and was amazing! Shawn had us hooked up to fish in under 5 minutes and was super easy to talk to the entire time! Definitely will be looking for Shawn again next time we visit.

    Joseph B. | July 3, 2023

    Trip: Gulf Shores Inshore Slammin'

  • ★★★★★
    Capt. Shawn took our group of 4 Inland Fishing June 13th, 2023. He knows the area well, has a nice boat and provides Top of the Line Gear. Our 4 Hour trip went by way to fast as we all had a great time. The region we fished received hard rain the night before, so the Fishing started slow but picked up mid-morning and he put us on Redfish and Trout. I recommend and will definitely book another fishing charter with Capt. Shawn our next trip to the Gulf Shores area. Capt. Shawn guides both Offshore and Inland. Our next trip will be the 6 Hour Off Shore charter for Red Snapper.

    Kevin P. | June 17, 2023

    Trip: Gulf Shores Inshore Slammin'

  • ★★★★★
    10/10 experience with Captain Shawn!!! He was so patient and knowledgeable! When putting on a new hook from our snag, he taught my 10 year old nephew a new fishing knot! He put us right in the fish and took us to a hot dolphin spot to see them in the wild! We had a FANTASTIC time!

    Crystal W. | March 26, 2023

    Trip: Gulf Shores Inshore Slammin'

The Best Places to Fish in Alabama

Other Types of Fishing in Alabama

Other Types of Hunting in Alabama

How are fishing conditions in Alabama?

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