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Damn Good Red Snapper Fishing Charters

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Recently Booked Red Snapper Fishing Charters

Fishing in Gulf Shores

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Gulf Shores

Red Snapper Whacker

100% (11)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $850
Fishing in Port Isabel

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Port Isabel

Red Snapper Adventure

100% (1)
33 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,350
Fishing in Orange Beach

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Orange Beach

8 Hr Bottom Fishing & Trolling

100% (5)
38 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,900
Fishing in Panama City

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Panama City

Adrenaline-Pumping PCB Trip

100% (2)
22 ft 1 - 4 People From $600
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed / operated by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Panama City

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Panama City

Dolphin Spotting And Fishing

100% (7)
29 ft 1 - 6 People From $650
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed / operated by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Orange Beach

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Orange Beach

Bottom Fishing And Trolling Fun 45'

100% (10)
45 ft 1 - 14 People From $1,150

Top Cities for Red Snapper Fishing

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

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

More Red Snapper Fishing Charters

Fishing in Shalimar
Fishing in Shalimar
Fishing in Shalimar
trip description for Destin Rod-Bender in Shalimar

Run out on the Gulf Side to explore the Nearshore waters and the plethora of artificial and natural reefs off Destin's beautiful white-sand beaches. Captain Robert is a great choice for a family-friendly and action-packed day on the nearshore waters of the Gulf of Mexico. No Destin adventure is complete without a dose of light and heavy tackle workouts reeling in Mackerel, Bonito, Cobia, Vermilion (mingo) Snapper, and much more. Step aboard the “Reel Crazy,” which is a 24’ Proline center console. It is a fully rigged and well-prepared for the current bite fishing machine. With a 300 HP Suzuki engine strapped to the back you'll be out over Captain Roberts secret spots with a line in the water in no time at all. The boat also features a live well to keep your bait fresh. On your way out to the Gulf, Captain Robert will stop to meet up with the Bait men to stock up for the day. If the bait man has already run out of bait, he will quickly take you to catch your own. Captain Robert is very focused on customers’ satisfaction and showing you a great time out on the water, but like any good captain his most important priority is safety. If one of your fishing buddies doesn’t feel well, you will return to the shore and the captain will only charge for half the trip’s price. Because after all, you are there to have fun! All trips come with a license, quality gear, tackle, and bait. Captain Robert will clean your catch for you at the end of the day as well, and send you home with a bag full of fillets ready to jump straight to the frying pan. Just bring your favorite drinks and food and welcome aboard! Read More

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Shalimar

Destin Rod-Bender

100% (4)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $700
Fishing in Gulf Shores
Fishing in Gulf Shores
Fishing in Gulf Shores
trip description for Offshore Adventure in Gulf Shores

This is a 6hr offshore fishing trip! When you book this trip with us you will be joining us on our 46ft Hatteras Sportfisher! She has cold a/c's, bathrooms and plenty of room to fish your group comfortably! On this trip we will target a variety of different fish including but not limited to, Red Snapper, Vermillion Snapper, Lane Snapper, Triggerfish, Wahoo, and many others! (Seasonal closures may effect some of these species from being kept) All of your fishing equipment is included in this trip as well as licenses! You will want to bring your favorite food and drinks. Adult beverages are allowed but please refrain from glass bottles! Also your deckhand does work for tips so please make sure to take care of him for his hard work throughout your trip! It's customary for 20%! We also have a fish cleaning service available if you'd like to utilize it! Just let the crew know and they'll be happy to assist with that! This trip leaves the dock at 7am but you'll want to arrive 15 to 20 minutes early so that we may go over safety and get loaded up to leave on time! Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Gulf Shores

Offshore Adventure

100% (3)
46 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,500
Fishing in Orange Beach
Fishing in Orange Beach
Fishing in Orange Beach
trip description for Inshore Bash in Orange Beach

Experience the Thrill of Inshore Fishing in Gulf Shores, AL with Captain Colby! Join Captain Colby for an exhilarating inshore fishing expedition in the stunning waters of Gulf Shores, Alabama. With a variety of fishing techniques and a chance to reel in some fantastic species, this trip promises an unforgettable angling adventure. Diverse Fishing Techniques Master the art of inshore fishing using versatile techniques, including bottom fishing, drift fishing, and light tackle fishing. Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to the sport, Captain Colby's expertise will ensure a successful and enjoyable fishing experience. Target Impressive Species Gulf Shores offers a bountiful fishing ground where you can target a range of remarkable species. From the delectable Mangrove Snapper and sought-after Red Snapper to the powerful Redfish, the lightning-fast Spanish Mackerel, and the beautiful Speckled Trout, there's a diverse array of fish awaiting your line. Set out on your fishing expedition aboard a 26' custom Gold Line boat, equipped for inshore and nearshore live bait light tackle fishing. Captain Colby's top-of-the-line equipment and local knowledge will ensure you have everything needed for a successful and memorable day on the water. Book Your Inshore Fishing Trip Today! Whether you're an experienced angler seeking a challenge or a newcomer eager to explore the Gulf Shores fishing scene, Captain Colby's inshore fishing adventure promises an incredible day of angling. Reserve your spot now and get ready for an amazing inshore fishing experience with Captain Colby in Gulf Shores, Alabama! Read More

Flats, Inshore, Jetty, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Orange Beach

Inshore Bash

100% (4)
26 ft 1 - 4 People From $500
Fishing in Panama City
Fishing in Panama City
Fishing in Panama City
trip description for Kids Fishing - 25’ Sea Born in Panama City

Turn your young ones onto the great sport of saltwater fishing with this introductory trip! The inshore waters of Panama City Beach are perfect for beginner level anglers to catch some picture-worthy fish without going too far from the dock! Captain Greg will show your kids everything they need to know before they get their lines in the water. On this exciting 3-hour trip, your young ones will get to test their skills on a variety of fish including Black Drum, Flounder, Gag Grouper, King Mackerel, Mangrove Snapper, Red Snapper, Redfish, Sheepshead, Spanish Mackerel, and Speckled Trout. Captain Greg is happy to show beginners how to target these fish using light tackle, artificial lures, bottom fishing, and fly fishing. This trip takes place aboard a 22' Sea Chaser bay boat that can fit up to 4 anglers. Powered by a 150 HP Mercury engine, this vessel will safely get your little ones to where the fish are biting! On board is all the navigational equipment and safety gear they'll need for a successful trip. She comes equipped with a tower that is key for sight fishing purposes and gives Captain Greg a huge advantage for the purpose of pointing out fish to his anglers. Captain Greg will provide all rods, reels, tackle and live bait. He will happily clean any keepers for an additional charge. We recommend you and your kids bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and any food, drinks or motion sickness aid they might need. Climb aboard with Captain Greg for this family-friendly adventure! Read More

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Panama City

Kids Fishing - 25’ Sea Born

100% (7)
22 ft 1 - 4 People From $500
Fishing in St. Petersburg
Fishing in St. Petersburg
Fishing in St. Petersburg
trip description for St. Pete Offshore Experience in St. Petersburg

Go aboard Captain Greg's beautiful 32' Sabalo and see what fishing in St. Peter's is all about! You'll be able to get a taste of everything on this trip, including nearshore reef fishing, offshore trolling, and everything in between. There are so many species available on this trip that we're barely able to list them all! The Gulf of Mexico is know as the Grouper capital of the world, and in the reefs, wrecks, and ledges you'll fish there are Black, Red, Scamp, Gag, and Goliath Grouper. Aside from bottomfish, there are also tons of Gray Snapper, Mangrove Snapper, Red Snapper, Amberjack, and Triggerfish that can be caught on the same reefs! These fish are all absolutely delicious table fare, and Captain Greg is happy to clean your keepers at the end of the trip. For surface trolling, there's an abundance of King Mackerel, Mahi Mahi, Spanish Mackerel, Barracuda, and even Sharks! These species are a blast to catch and provide a challenge for every level of angler. You'll be fishing from a 32′ Sabalo sportfisher, built in the "Down East Cruiser" style. She has 15 feet of fishing deck space, with 11 rod holders and an open deck all the way around the stern. The 315-HP Cummins diesel engine makes her an extremely reliable fishing machine. With over 200 gallons of fuel capacity, she can take you out 100 miles and back with fuel to spare! In addition, she boasts 1800 lbs. of ice capacity; far more than a charter could ever need. This means there’s room for all your food, drinks, fish, and plenty of fresh ice. The creature comforts of this charter boat are more than worthy. Her central engine box has a cushion that’s 24 square feet and 6” thick for comfortable seating for six. There’s also a fish box with another 4 inch thick cushion that seats two. There’s also plenty of room to rest in the oversized v-berth below. Whether you want to relax on a fifty mile ride offshore or sit down and reel in a fish, there’s room for you AND five of your friends. Captain Greg will provide everything you need for a blue-ribbon day, including rods, reels, bait, and tackle. All you need to bring is sunscreen, proper clothing, sunglasses, and a smile! Read More

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in St. Petersburg

St. Pete Offshore Experience

100% (7)
32 ft 1 - 6 People From $700
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
trip description for Destin Trolling & Bottom Fishing in Destin

Head further offshore to explore the Destin's prolific Gulf waters anywhere from 18-20 miles offshore! These 6 hour trips give Captain Kyle more time to implement a couple different techniques to catch different pools of species. Trolling these offshore waters can solicit a Mahi, Wahoo, Mackerel, or even a Tuna bite, while bottom fishing Captain Kyle's favorite reefs and offshore structure opens the door to a plethora of species like Grouper, Snapper, and Big Jacks. This trip is a great experience to catch some fish to bring home or to reel in just for a photo! You'll be fishing aboard captain Kyle's 40-foot Bertram Widebody Classic Sportfish that's powered by twin Cummins turbo desels! She has been customized with underwater fins to improve on an already superior stable ride. For your comfort during your trip, the boat is furnished inside the fully Air-Conditioned salon which includes a bathroom, microwave, DirecTV on the flatscreen television inside and Sirius Satellite Radio which can be enjoyed inside and out. She is also customized with a tower, downrigger, outriggers, and a large live well. For the nighttime hours, she has above water illumination as well as powerful underwater lights. No expense has been spared with a full array of state-of-the-art electronics, and top-notch fishing tackle. Captain Kyle and his crew will provide all the rods, reels, and tackle. All you need to bring is any food or drinks you might want. Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Destin

Destin Trolling & Bottom Fishing

100% (12)
40 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,920
See All Red Snapper Trips

Everything to Know About Booking a red snapper fishing charter

What are the best red snapper fishing charters?

Why should I book a red snapper fishing charter with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 613 red snapper trips, and the most popular trips are Adrenaline-Pumping PCB Trip guided by Jason, Dolphin Spotting and Fishing guided by Russell, and Bottom Fishing and Trolling Fun 45' guided by Seth.

Our guides are rated a 4.88 out of 5 based on 3282 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

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

Looking for kid friendly red snapper guides / fishing lessons? Check out our beginner and family friendly red snapper guides.

What types of red snapper fishing charters are common?

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular type of fishing for red snapper as well as nearshore fishing, inshore fishing, and flats fishing.

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

How much do red snapper fishing charters cost?

Prices for red snapper can range anywhere from about $868 to $5,052, but the average price for a half day trip for red snapper is $1,348. The average price for a full day trip for red snapper is $3,177.

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 red snapper fishing?

The most popular season for red snapper fishing is summer, and most anglers book their trips 69 days in advance.

Do I need a fishing license for red snapper and what are the bag limits for red snapper?

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

What is a red snapper?

The northern red snapper (Lutjanus campechanus) is a type of snapper most commonly found around the Gulf of Mexico, and is both the most populous and most sought after snapper in the area. It is both an important commercial and recreational fish, and red snapper season is one of the most recognizable times on the gamefish calendar for the area - many anglers have it circled on their calendar half a year ahead of time.

Red snapper are a medium-sized fish and (obviously) very red in color, and red snapper in deeper waters tend to be more red than those that live shallower. While most snapper get their name from their enlarged canine teeth (known as snappers), red snapper actually do not, but still have fairly sharp teeth so be careful handling their mouths.

How big do red snapper get?

Red snapper generally reaches maturity when they reach 15 inches at 2-5 years old, and an average adult might be 20 to 35 inches or more. They can live for up to 50 years, and interestingly will reach maturity faster and at a smaller size in Texas versus other parts of the Gulf. Adults will range from 10 to 20 pounds, and generally deeper water will mean larger fish.

Whats the biggest red snapper ever caught?

The world record red snapper weighed a crazy 50 pounds 4 ounces and was caught off the Louisiana coast by Doc Kennedy in 1996.

Where is the best place to catch red snapper?

While they range all over the Carribbean and up the Atlantic Coast, red snapper are most common and most abundant in the Gulf of Mexico. The most popular places to catch red snapper are in the panhandle of Florida or off the coast of central Texas.

Red snapper live on the bottom, and will inhabit rocky bottoms or other structure and reefs (or artificial reefs like offshore oil rigs). They are social fish and will form large schools where they find good structure, which is why every guide has a series of honey holes of their own where they know schools of snapper are sure to be. Schools also tend to be made up of fish of similar sizes.

Red snapper will generally live between 30-300 feet deep, with bigger fish inhabiting deeper waters further from shore. Their preferred habitat changes as they mature, and while younger fish will inhabit more open areas, older and bigger fish will seek more and more cover.

When should I catch red snapper?

The season for red snapper is interesting because it does not depend on fish behavior, but rather regulations set by the NOAA to set catch limits. The NOAA has set rebuilding plans for red snapper fisheries both in the Gulf of Mexico and on the lower Atlantic Coast, and both of these plans look to rebuild populations into the future. As such, there are annual catch limits, size limits, and season limits for both commercial and recreational anglers. Seasons and limits are set each year, and the federal limit can also differ from state water limits. The total catch limit is generally divided as 49% recreational and 51% commercial.

How do you catch red snapper?

Red snapper will eat almost anything, but live or frozen bait is generally easier than lures, although jigs are definitely still successful. The tricky thing about red snapper is that they tend to nibble rather than swallow, so you need to have a light touch and know when to hook them. The common frustration of many an angler is putting bait after bait down and jigging it only to reel up empty hook after empty hook.

Bigger snapper like structure, so to target them you'll hit reefs, wrecks, and offshore rigs. Sometimes the snapper can be caught by freelining, but generally they will be on the bottom. It goes without saying that if you want to catch a big red snapper, you need to use a big bait, generally a whole squid.

If you are releasing fish, you are required by law to use circle hooks and dehooking devices.

Are red snapper good to eat? What are the best red snapper recipes?

Red snapper might be king of the white fish. It is a prized fish for anglers to catch and eat as well as a prized fish commercially. The texture is firm and slightly sweet and nutty that goes well a number of different ways with a number of different ingredients. Many people will cook it whole or grill it skin-on, which will protect the fish from the flames and help it retain some of its flavor.

Recent Reviews of Captain Experiences

  • ★★★★★
    Amazing trip.. Put us on the fish, and First Mate Kelly is the MAN!

    Gregg C. with Doug P. of Orange Beach, Alabama

  • ★★★★★
    We took a 10 hour charter with Mark and Chris and it was an excellent time. They made sure that both of our boys got to catch a shark and they each got several Mahi. I would definitely recommend them!

    Tammy G. with Mark B. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great time! Everyone that fished caught at least one. Kendall was a great help and kept bait on all the hooks and took the fish off quickly so fishing could continue!! We will definitely recommend Captain Experiences and Captain Dale!! Thanks for such a wonderful experience!!

    Debra G. with Dale W. of Orange Beach, Alabama

  • ★★★★★
    The fish hawk was an outstanding charter and Captain Brian and mate were very professional and worked hard to fill the fish box. As soon as the bite slowed on a spot, we packed up and headed to another spot. We caught fish all day long. We had 6 people fishing on the boat and I know that takes a lot of effort from the crew and they both helped all day long baiting hooks, taking fish off, and tying lines,,,,I highly recommend them and wil no doubt book again with these guys

    Tim H. with Ron F. of St. Petersburg, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great captain and crew. While weather didn’t cooperate the crew did a great job keeping us engaged. Boat was great and hightly recommend.

    Vee G. with Houston F. of Galveston, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    Capt Blake and deckhand Bryson were awesome. The Truly Blessed is a nice yacht disguised as a fishing boat. Nice accommodations with an excellent A/C even on the bridge. We picked up a load of snapper and a nice wahoo while trolling.

    William G. with Danny D. of Port Aransas, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    Had a redfish trip with Captain Rich on 7-17-24. We had some thunder storms in the area but he was able to navigate around the to get to the first spot. He could tell we were fairly experienced and offered us great advice on how to get on them. When the storms started moving in he took us to a different place. We slayed them! Rich was super knowledgeable and an outstanding guide. Can’t wait for next time.

    Logan B. with Rich M. of Boothville-Venice, Louisiana

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great time on the 8 hour trip. We caught snappers then went hunting for bonus fish. Communication with the business and our captain was great. We showed up later than planned but our captain was flexible. Danny's was a great choice.

    Tavares W. with Danny D. of Port Aransas, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    Went out with rich , 6 of us total and his boat fit us all well. Limits of red fish with a few other species mixed in . Great captain knew where the fish were , will definitely go with rich again. Tony

    Logan B. with Rich M. of Boothville-Venice, Louisiana

  • ★★★★★
    Capt rich was very communicative with pick up and knew exactly where the fish were! Only took us about 3-4 hours to get a 6 man red limit. Great company too to have on board as a capt. Will be back for sure!

    Logan B. with Rich M. of Boothville-Venice, Louisiana

  • ★★★★★
    These guys are top notch! We will book them again. They are professionals and communicate every move. Trey the first mate took care of our every need and worked well with Capt Addison. My wife and son enjoyed the trip too.

    Chris H. with Addison S. of Port Aransas, Texas

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

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

  • ★★★★★
    Great time with a great guide enjoyed the trip, the music and the captain very much. Fishing was a little slow but that’s because it’s fishing.

    Gary S. with Max W. of Panama City Beach, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had an amazing trip today! Captain Augustine put us right on the fish. Not only did we catch our limit but he was very patient and helped our two kids land some big snapper. This was definitely a trip of a lifetime thanks to a great Captain and good fishing!

    Vanessa P. with Augustin P. of Port Isabel, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    We had the most amazing trip of a lifetime! Captain Augustine was great! He put us right on the fish. Not only did we catch some big fish we saw dolphins and had a great time. He was especially patient and kind with my kids and helped them land some big snapper. This was definitely the trip of a lifetime thanks to a great Captain!!!

    Vanessa P. with Augustin P. of Port Isabel, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip, captain was very accommodating for me and my friends. He made the day fun even though the fishing wasn’t great. Kept trying to get us on the fish even though the bite was tough.

    Trent H. with Nathan S. of Panama City Beach, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Heather, we feel you are very fortunate to have people like DJ and Tyler working with you. They were absolutely amazing and instrumental in making this fishing trip with our granddaughters a "REEL SUCCESS"! These guys went about their business with true dedication and diligence, all while keeping things easy going and friendly for us. Cool, cool deal. Also, we were very happy to go out on the REEL DEAL. It worked well for us. Many thanks.

    Ricky M. with Heather H. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Heather sent my wife and I and our two granddaughters out for a 6 hour combination trolling and bottom fishing trip with Captain DJ and Tyler. We can't say enough about how enjoyable it was. Both DJ and Tyler were fantastic guys to be around and put us on plenty of fish, both trolling and bottom fishing. It was very impressive to watch them as a team work to keep our granddaughters busy reeling in fish. They made every aspect of the trip friendly, comfortable and fun. It was all we had hoped to experience. Many thanks to Heather, DJ, Tyler and Captain Experiences.

    Ricky M. with Heather H. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    This trip was so fun, we caught snapper, gafftop, and 2 stingrays, and one was a monster. Andrew knew where to go and his boat was very nice, he’s the best hype man too, always excited when a fish is on! Jeff was the bomb. He made sure we always had our lines ready and in the water and helped us pull up them Rays when our arms were wore out!

    Katelyn B. with Andrew N. of Corpus Christi, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Greg put us on the fish all day and we had a great time!

    Adrian W. with Greg M. of St. Petersburg, Florida

What's biting?

View Red Snapper Fishing Reports from our damn good guides.

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