Damn Good Pensacola Bay Fishing Charters

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Recently Booked Fishing Charters In Pensacola Bay

Fishing in Destin
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Inshore Fishing Charter in Pensacola

Bay Fishing Bonanza

100% (23)
25 ft 1 - 5 People From $500
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Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Pensacola

Inshore "Catch Fish Guarantee"

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

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Orange Beach

Inshore Fishing Guide Service

100% (2)
25 ft 1 - 8 People From $550
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Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Pensacola

Pensacola Fishing Frenzy

100% (4)
26 ft 1 - 12 People From $800
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Gulf Breeze

Pensacola Bay Fly Fishing

100% (7)
21 ft 1 - 3 People From $400
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Jetty, Flats Fishing Charter in Pensacola

Limits With Lance

100% (2)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $600

Top Types of Trips in Pensacola Bay

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Deep Sea Fishing Charters In Pensacola Bay

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Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Pensacola

Pensacola Fishing Frenzy

100% (4)
26 ft 1 - 12 People From $800
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Pensacola

Half Day Nearshore Fishing

100% (2)
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $750
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Pensacola

Full Day Inshore/offshore

100% (5)
23 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,400
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Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Pensacola

Pensacola Red Snapper Frenzy

100% (4)
26 ft 1 - 6 People From $800

Inshore Fishing Charters In Pensacola Bay

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore Fishing Charter in Pensacola

Pensacola Inshore

100% (2)
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $650
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore Fishing Charter in Pensacola

4 Hr Splash And Catch

100% (2)
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $700
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Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Orange Beach

Inshore Fishing Guide Service

100% (2)
25 ft 1 - 8 People From $550
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Jetty, Flats Fishing Charter in Pensacola

Limits With Lance

100% (2)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $600
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore Fishing Charter in Pensacola

Bay Fishing Bonanza

100% (23)
25 ft 1 - 5 People From $500
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Pensacola

3/4 Day Offshore/bay

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

Nearshore Fishing Charters In Pensacola Bay

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Pensacola

3/4 Day Offshore/bay

100% (5)
23 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,000
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in Pensacola

Half Day Bay/Nearshore

100% (5)
23 ft 1 - 6 People From $750
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Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Pensacola

Pensacola Fishing Frenzy

100% (4)
26 ft 1 - 12 People From $800
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Jetty, Flats Fishing Charter in Pensacola

Limits With Lance

100% (2)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $600
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Pensacola

Half Day Nearshore Fishing

100% (2)
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $750
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Jetty, Flats Fishing Charter in Pensacola

Legends Of The Emerald Coast

100% (4)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $600

More Fishing Charters In Pensacola Bay

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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

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Pensacola

Pensacola Red Snapper Frenzy

100% (4)
26 ft 1 - 6 People From $800
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in Pensacola

Half Day Bay/Nearshore

100% (5)
23 ft 1 - 6 People From $750
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Jetty, Flats Fishing Charter in Pensacola

Legends Of The Emerald Coast

100% (4)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $600
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore Fishing Charter in Pensacola

Pensacola Inshore

100% (2)
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $650
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Pensacola

Half Day Nearshore Fishing

100% (2)
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $750
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore Fishing Charter in Pensacola

3-Hour Pensacola Angler's Delight

100% (2)
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $550
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Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Charter in Pensacola Bay

What are the best fishing charters in Pensacola Bay?

Why should I book a fishing charter in Pensacola Bay with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 16 trips in Pensacola Bay, and the most popular trips in the area are Bay Fishing Bonanza guided by Jake, Inshore "Catch Fish Guarantee" guided by Bill, and Pensacola Fishing Frenzy guided by James.

Our guides in Pensacola Bay are rated a 4.97 out of 5 based on 3637 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 charters / fishing lessons in Pensacola Bay? Check out our beginner and family friendly charters in Pensacola Bay.

What types of fishing charters are common in Pensacola Bay?

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular type of fishing in Pensacola Bay as well as inshore fishing, nearshore fishing, and flats fishing.

The most commonly sought after species in Pensacola Bay are: 1. redfish, 2. spanish mackerel, 3. red snapper, 4. speckled trout, and 5. mangrove snapper.

The most common fishing techniques in Pensacola Bay are light tackle fishing, bottom fishing, and live bait fishing but cut bait fishing and trolling are popular as well.

How much do Pensacola Bay fishing charters cost?

Prices in Pensacola Bay can range anywhere from about $600 to $1,600, but the average price for a half day trip in Pensacola Bay is $849. The average price for a full day trip in Pensacola Bay is $1,262.

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 fishing in Pensacola Bay?

The most popular season for fishing in Pensacola Bay is summer, and most anglers book their trips 19 days in advance.

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

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

What is fishing in Pensacola Bay about?

Fishing in Pensacola Bay, located on the northwest coast of Florida, offers anglers a diverse range of fishing opportunities amidst the stunning backdrop of the Gulf Coast. Pensacola Bay is renowned for its rich marine ecosystem, encompassing shallow flats, deep channels, and productive estuaries, which support a variety of saltwater species. Anglers visiting Pensacola Bay can expect to target a wide range of fish, including redfish, speckled trout, flounder, Spanish mackerel, and king mackerel, among others.

One of the highlights of fishing in Pensacola Bay is the opportunity for inshore angling in its shallow waters and winding creeks. Inshore anglers can explore the bay's grass flats, oyster bars, and mangrove shorelines in search of trophy-sized redfish and speckled trout. Using light tackle and live bait such as shrimp or mullet, anglers can cast their lines along the edges of the flats and tidal creeks, presenting their offerings to hungry game fish patrolling the shallows.

For those seeking offshore adventures, Pensacola Bay provides easy access to the Gulf of Mexico's rich fishing grounds. Offshore anglers can venture beyond the barrier islands to target pelagic species such as king mackerel, Spanish mackerel, cobia, and mahi-mahi, as well as bottom-dwelling species like grouper and snapper. Whether trolling along the outer reefs, bottom fishing over wrecks and ledges, or sight casting to surface-feeding fish, offshore anglers in Pensacola Bay can enjoy a diverse range of fishing opportunities against the backdrop of the Gulf's sparkling waters and scenic coastline.

What are the most popular months to fish in Pensacola Bay?

Fishing seasons in Pensacola Bay are influenced by the region's subtropical climate and the migratory patterns of various fish species. Spring marks the beginning of prime fishing season in Pensacola Bay as water temperatures rise and marine life becomes more active. Anglers eagerly anticipate the return of migratory species such as Spanish mackerel, king mackerel, and cobia, which move into the bay's waters to spawn and feed. This time of year offers excellent opportunities for anglers to target these prized game fish using a variety of techniques, including trolling, casting, and live bait fishing.

As summer unfolds, fishing in Pensacola Bay remains productive, with anglers continuing to target a variety of inshore and nearshore species. Inshore waters teem with activity as schools of baitfish attract predatory species such as speckled trout, redfish, and flounder. Anglers can enjoy fast-paced action and memorable catches while exploring the bay's shallow flats, grass beds, and mangrove shorelines. Additionally, offshore anglers can venture beyond the barrier islands to target pelagic species such as king mackerel, Spanish mackerel, and mahi-mahi, providing anglers with a diverse range of fishing opportunities throughout the summer months.

In the fall, Pensacola Bay undergoes a transition period marked by changing fish behavior and migratory patterns. As water temperatures begin to cool, migratory species such as king mackerel and Spanish mackerel become more active, feeding voraciously in preparation for the winter months. Anglers can capitalize on this feeding frenzy by targeting fish in the shallows and along submerged structure, using a variety of artificial lures and live bait to entice strikes. Fall offers anglers a diverse range of fishing opportunities, with the chance to catch a variety of saltwater species against the backdrop of Pensacola Bay's scenic beauty.

What types of fishing are popular in Pensacola Bay?

Fishing in Pensacola Bay offers anglers a variety of options to pursue their favorite species using different techniques. One popular method is inshore fishing, where anglers target species like redfish, speckled trout, and flounder amidst the bay's shallow waters, grass flats, and mangrove shorelines. Inshore anglers often use light tackle and live bait such as shrimp or mullet to entice strikes from these prized game fish. They can also employ artificial lures like soft plastics or topwater plugs, allowing for versatile and exciting fishing experiences in the scenic waters of Pensacola Bay.

Another common type of fishing in Pensacola Bay is nearshore fishing, which involves targeting species like Spanish mackerel, king mackerel, and cobia along the bay's outer edges and nearshore reefs. Nearshore anglers often use trolling techniques or cast lures and live bait around structure such as buoys, wrecks, and artificial reefs to entice strikes from these pelagic species. This type of fishing offers anglers the chance to enjoy the thrill of battling powerful game fish while taking in the scenic views of Pensacola Bay's coastline.

For those seeking offshore adventures, Pensacola Bay provides easy access to the rich fishing grounds of the Gulf of Mexico. Offshore anglers can venture beyond the bay to target a variety of pelagic species such as mahi-mahi, tuna, and billfish, as well as bottom-dwelling species like grouper and snapper. Whether trolling, bottom fishing, or sight casting, offshore anglers in Pensacola Bay can enjoy a diverse range of fishing opportunities against the backdrop of the Gulf's sparkling waters and stunning sunsets.

What species are popular in Pensacola Bay?

Pensacola Bay, nestled along the Gulf Coast of Florida, boasts a diverse array of fish species that lure anglers year-round. Among the most coveted catches in the bay are redfish, celebrated for their fighting spirit and elusive nature. These prized game fish can be found prowling the shallow flats, oyster bars, and grass beds of Pensacola Bay, providing anglers with thrilling battles against the backdrop of the bay's scenic beauty. Anglers often use live bait such as shrimp or mullet, as well as artificial lures like spoons or soft plastics, to entice redfish into biting.

In addition to redfish, Pensacola Bay is also home to populations of speckled trout, known for their aggressive strikes and delicious flavor. These shimmering silver fish can be found in the bay's grass flats, tidal creeks, and along submerged structure, particularly during the cooler months of the year. Anglers often target speckled trout using a variety of techniques, including live bait fishing, lure casting, and fly fishing, to tempt strikes from these prized game fish. With their abundance and willingness to bite, speckled trout provide anglers with ample opportunities for memorable catches in the waters of Pensacola Bay.

Furthermore, Pensacola Bay offers anglers the chance to target a variety of other saltwater species, including flounder, Spanish mackerel, sheepshead, and mangrove snapper, among others. Flounder, with their unique flat bodies and camouflaged coloration, can be found lying in wait along sandy bottoms and oyster beds. Spanish mackerel, prized for their speed and agility, can be found feeding aggressively around structure such as buoys, wrecks, and artificial reefs. Whether targeting redfish, speckled trout, flounder, Spanish mackerel, or other species, anglers in Pensacola Bay are sure to enjoy a rewarding and memorable fishing experience in this Gulf Coast paradise.

Does Pensacola Bay have good fishing?

Pensacola Bay, located in the Florida Panhandle, is a fantastic destination for fishing enthusiasts due to its rich diversity of fish species and accessible fishing spots. This expansive bay system offers anglers a variety of fishing environments, from shallow flats and seagrass beds to deeper channels and nearshore reefs. Pensacola Bay is particularly renowned for its excellent inshore fishing opportunities, where anglers can target species such as speckled trout, redfish, flounder, sheepshead, and Spanish mackerel throughout the year.

One of the main attractions of fishing in Pensacola Bay is its accessibility and convenience. Numerous public boat ramps, fishing piers, and shoreline access points make it easy for anglers to launch their boats or fish from the shore. This accessibility allows anglers to explore different areas of the bay and adapt their fishing techniques based on tidal movements, weather conditions, and seasonal fish migrations. Whether you prefer casting from a boat, kayak, or the shoreline, Pensacola Bay offers diverse opportunities to enjoy a day of fishing.

In addition to its abundant fish populations, Pensacola Bay provides a scenic and enjoyable backdrop for outdoor activities. The bay is surrounded by beautiful coastal landscapes, including white sand beaches, marshes, and mangrove forests. Wildlife sightings are common, with opportunities to spot dolphins, sea turtles, and various bird species while fishing. The bay's proximity to Gulf of Mexico also opens up opportunities for offshore fishing adventures, making Pensacola Bay a versatile and attractive destination for anglers of all skill levels looking to experience the natural beauty and abundant marine life of Florida's Gulf Coast.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    I highly recommend Mitch. He's friendly, laid back and great with kids. He worked hard for us to find redfish. We moved around a lot as needed. I would definitely book with Mitch again.

    Ryan F. | August 10, 2024

    Trip: Inshore Fishing Guide Service

  • ★★★★★
    Richard was great. He really helped me improve my casting.

    Matthew P. | August 3, 2024

    Trip: Pensacola Bay Fly Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Alex and Chago were THE BEST!!! They both worked so hard to make sure we caught as many fish as possible and had a great time even when it was pouring down rain on us. We would go back and fish with them any day. Awesome trip!!

    Toni S. | August 3, 2024

    Trip: Half Day Bay/Nearshore

  • ★★★★★
    Jake was an awesome guide. He knew his shit about the area and got us on fish on a fun bay trip to take our son out and see how’d he do with bigger water fishing. We will for sure be back to go out deep sea fishing with him next time.

    Jordan K. | July 18, 2024

    Trip: Bay Fishing Bonanza

  • ★★★★★
    Jake was a great guide and did an amazing job getting us on fish. My son and I will be booking him again for our next trip to Gulf Shores!!

    Aaron G. | July 14, 2024

    Trip: Bay Fishing Bonanza

  • ★★★★★
    Alex and Stephen were both amazing. They kept us informed ahead of time and the fishing trip was amazing. Stephen knew exactly where to go and my son & I had the experience of a lifetime!

    Bryan H. | July 7, 2024

    Trip: Half Day Bay/Nearshore

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Richard was knowledgeable, patient, and generous with his time. Our group was able to catch several fish, and had to opportunities to see lots of wildlife including sharks, rays, and a school of large tarpon. I certainly recommend this experience!

    Owen K. | July 3, 2024

    Trip: Pensacola Bay Fly Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    We had an amazing time fishing with Lance in Pensacola Bay. He put us on the exact fish we asked to pursue and couldn’t have had a better time. Highly recommend. 10 out of 10.

    Jeff G. | June 22, 2024

    Trip: Limits with Lance

  • ★★★★★
    These guys made a last minute trip happen. Our captain, Alex, worked hard to put us on some good fish. Even when the weather was against us we had some great Florida Panhandle fishing.

    Paul S. | June 5, 2024

    Trip: 3/4 Day offshore/bay

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

    Erik | May 29, 2024

    Trip: Pensacola Fishing Frenzy

  • ★★★★★
    Richard is the best!

    Kathy M. | May 26, 2024

    Trip: Pensacola Bay Fly Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great day on the water with Richard who is a knowledgeable and experienced fly-fishing guide. I highly recommend spending a day or two with him!

    Greg S. | May 23, 2024

    Trip: Pensacola Bay Fly Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Alex was an amazing captain! We hit up a couple different spots landing some sheep head, red fish, and even a blowfish and bull shark!! 10/10 would recommend he was awesome with our 9 year old too!!

    Erin W. | March 28, 2024

    Trip: Half Day Bay/Nearshore

  • ★★★★★
    Was a great trip! Had an awesome time.

    Scott D. | December 22, 2023

    Trip: Half Day Bay/Nearshore

  • ★★★★★
    I had a great day on the water with Capt Richard. I especially appreciated his willingness and experience to teach me as it was my first time saltwater fly fishing.

    Jon H. | November 1, 2023

    Trip: Pensacola Bay Fly Fishing

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

    Gib H. | October 25, 2023

    Trip: Pensacola Fishing Frenzy

  • ★★★★★
    Jake was a great Captain for our Inshore Fishing Trip. He worked really hard and was very respectful and did all he could to help us take some fish home. The conditions weren't perfect, but that's fishing. I would recommend Jake to anyone looking for a family fishing trip inshore.

    Blake M. | October 16, 2023

    Trip: Bay Fishing Bonanza

  • ★★★★★
    Richard was great at everything. Plenty of fish and a wealth of knowledge.

    Shelden F. | September 14, 2023

    Trip: Pensacola Bay Fly Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    This was my daughter's and my first offshore fishing trip, and we couldn't have asked for a better one. Captain Tim was incredible, got us on some great fish, and made the morning completely enjoyable. We went home with a lot of meat he cleaned up for us and created some wonderful memories. If you're looking for an amazing experience and a cooler full of fish to take home, Captain Tim is your guy!

    Rodney C. | August 5, 2023

    Trip: Legends of the Emerald Coast

  • ★★★★★
    Mitch was great about everything! Super clean boat! Very professional!

    Kevin B. | July 26, 2023

    Trip: Inshore Fishing Guide Service

Top Targeted Hunting Species in Pensacola Bay

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