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Gulf Shores Beginner Inshore Fishing | Tidewater
Gulf Shores Beginner Inshore Fishing | Tidewater
A photo of two people fishing for sheepshead in the Gulf Shores
8 black drum fish caught while fishing in AL
6 fish caught in Gulf Shores
Sheepshead fish caught while fishing in Gulf Shores
Sheepshead fish caught in Gulf Shores
Two sheepshead fish caught in Gulf Shores
A beautiful coastal landscape in Gulf Shores
5 sheepshead and black drum fish caught in AL
Best fishing trip in AL
8 huge black drum fish caught while fishing in Gulf Shores
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Gulf Shores Beginner Inshore Fishing | Tidewater

locationGulf Shores

What you will be catching:

  • Black DrumBlack Drum
  • RedfishRedfish
  • SheepsheadSheepshead
  • 3-hour beginner-friendly fishing trip for up to 6 guests
  • Target Redfish, Sheepshead, and Black Drum with provided equipment
  • Learn light tackle techniques while enjoying Gulf Coast waters

Trip Pricing and Availabilities :

Trip pricing information is temporarily unavailable.

Quick & Easy Gulf Shores Fishing Adventure

Looking for a laid-back way to wet a line in Gulf Shores? This 3-hour inshore trip is perfect for newcomers and families wanting to try their hand at fishing without committing to a full day. You'll be targeting some of Alabama's most popular inshore species like redfish, sheepshead, and black drum - all while learning the ropes from a pro captain who knows these waters like the back of their hand.

What to Expect on the Water

This trip is all about keeping things simple and fun. Your captain will get you set up with light tackle gear that's easy to handle, even if you've never held a rod before. The inshore waters around Gulf Shores are typically calm, so you don't have to worry about rough seas. With room for up to 6 people, it's ideal for small groups or families to spend some quality time together. Your captain will show you the basics of casting, setting the hook, and reeling in your catch. Don't be surprised if you end up with a scrappy redfish or hefty black drum on the end of your line!

Fishing 101: Gear & Techniques

One of the great things about this trip is that all the gear is provided, so you don't need to stress about what to bring. Your captain will set you up with light spinning rods and reels that are perfect for beginners. You'll likely be using live bait like shrimp or cut bait to entice the fish. The captain will show you how to cast your line, feel for bites, and set the hook when a fish strikes. Inshore fishing often involves techniques like bottom fishing near structures or drifting with the current. It's a relaxed style of fishing that's easy to pick up, making it perfect for first-timers and kids.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Redfish are one of the stars of Gulf Shores inshore fishing. These copper-colored beauties are known for their strong fights and distinctive black spot near the tail. They hang out near oyster beds and grass flats, often in schools. Redfish can range from a couple of pounds up to over 20 pounds for the big bulls. They're great eating fish too, so if you catch a keeper, you might have dinner sorted!

Sheepshead are another local favorite. Don't let their funny-looking teeth fool you - these striped fish put up a great fight for their size. They love to hang around pilings and jetties, munching on barnacles and crabs. Sheepshead are tricky to hook because they're expert bait stealers, but when you do get one, you're in for some of the tastiest fish tacos you've ever had.

Black drum are the gentle giants of inshore waters. These silvery-gray fish can grow to over 50 pounds, though you're more likely to catch ones in the 5-15 pound range on this trip. They love to root around on the bottom for crabs and shrimp, so your captain might have you fishing near the seafloor. Black drum fight hard but steady, making them a great catch for beginners who want to feel some real pulling power.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Gulf Shores is a fishing paradise, and this quick trip gives you a perfect taste of what it's all about. The waters here are teeming with fish year-round, so there's always something biting. Plus, the scenery can't be beat - you might spot dolphins, pelicans, and other wildlife while you're out there. It's a chance to unplug, relax, and maybe discover a new hobby. Many folks who try this beginner trip end up coming back for longer charters once they get hooked on fishing!

Top Catches This Season

While redfish, sheepshead, and black drum are the main targets, don't be surprised if you hook into some other local species. Speckled trout are often caught in the same areas, especially around grass flats and deeper holes. In the warmer months, you might even tangle with a hard-fighting jack crevalle or a feisty bluefish. Your captain will know what's biting best and where to find them, so you're in for a real Gulf Coast sampler platter of fishing action.

Time to Book Your Spot

This 3-hour trip is the perfect way to dip your toes into the world of Gulf Shores fishing. It's long enough to get a real taste of the action, but short enough that even the kids won't get bored. Remember, all the gear is provided, so you just need to show up with some snacks, drinks, and sunscreen. The experienced captain will take care of the rest, making sure you have a safe and fun time on the water. Whether you're a complete beginner or just looking for a quick fishing fix, this trip delivers big time. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait to book your adventure. Get ready to make some awesome memories and maybe even catch dinner while you're at it!

Learn more about the species

Black Drum

Black Drum are the big boys of the drum family, often weighing 5-30 pounds but sometimes hitting 90. They're known for making croaking sounds and having strong teeth perfect for crushing shellfish. You'll find them in brackish waters and estuaries, especially around oyster beds. Spring's the prime time to catch 'em when they school up to spawn. After that, they scatter and get trickier to target. For bait, nothing beats live crabs or clams – Black Drum are bottom feeders and love that stuff. When fly fishing, go for a 9-weight rod and weighted flies like Clouser Minnows. One local tip: if you're keeping them for dinner, stick to the smaller ones under 15 pounds. The big guys can be tough and not as tasty. Remember to check regulations, but usually you can keep 5 per day between 14-24 inches.

Black Drum

Redfish

Redfish, or Red Drum, are shallow water hunters with a telltale spot near their tail. They love cruising in 1-4 feet of water, often in bays, around oyster reefs, and near seagrass. Look for 'em in super skinny water – sometimes their backs are even out of the water! Most redfish we catch inshore run 20-30 inches, but they can grow much bigger offshore. They're great fighters and tasty too, with a light, sweet flavor. To catch 'em, work topwater lures or shrimp imitations in the shallows. They'll hit just about anything when they're hungry. Spring and fall are usually best, but you can find 'em year-round here. Pro tip: if you see their backs or tails out of water, try sight casting with a weedless jig or fly. There's nothing quite like watching a redfish chase down your lure in clear, shallow water.

Redfish

Sheepshead

Sheepshead are the convicts of the sea, sporting distinctive black and white stripes. These tough fighters usually run 1-8 pounds, but can hit 20 if you're lucky. You'll find them hugging structure – docks, bridges, reefs – anywhere covered in barnacles. They're sneaky bait stealers with human-like teeth, so set the hook hard when you feel a nibble. Spring's prime time, February to April, when they school up to spawn. To catch 'em, get as close to structure as you can without spooking them. Use light tackle and natural bait like fiddler crabs or shrimp. Work your bait slowly from bottom to top to find where they're hanging. Local trick: if it's legal, try scraping some barnacles off pilings to create a chum slick. Sheepshead's white, flaky meat is delicious, but they're a pain to clean. Still, many anglers say it's worth the effort for a tasty dinner.

Sheepshead

About the Teresa D

Company vehicle

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6

Manufacturer Name: Yamaha

Maximum Cruising Speed: 32

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 115

Hop aboard our comfortable fishing boat for a relaxing 3-hour trip on the calm inshore waters of Gulf Shores. Perfect for newcomers and families, this beginner-friendly charter welcomes up to 6 guests to try their hand at light tackle fishing. Your experienced captain will show you the ropes as you cast for popular catches like redfish, sheepshead, and black drum. We provide all the gear you need – just bring some snacks, drinks, and sun protection. It's an easygoing way to get a taste of Gulf Coast fishing without committing to a full day on the water. Whether you're looking to introduce the kids to angling or just want a laid-back morning out on the bay, this short trip offers a fun glimpse into the local fishing scene. Make some memories and maybe even catch dinner while enjoying the beautiful Alabama coastline.
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Experience the excitement of Gulf Shores fishing with Tidewater Fishing! Book your adventure today and join Captain Erik aboard his expertly guided charters. Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to fishing, Tidewater Fishing promises an unforgettable fishing experience for all.

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A beautiful coastal landscape in Gulf Shores

Kids enjoying their first fishing trip with Captai

5 sheepshead and black drum fish caught in AL

Sheepshead fight keeps anglers on their toes.

Best fishing trip in AL

Lively fishing action in the heart of Gulf Shores.

8 huge black drum fish caught while fishing in Gulf Shores

Fishing licenses included—just show up and fish!

A photo of two people fishing for sheepshead in the Gulf Shores

null

8 black drum fish caught while fishing in AL

null

6 fish caught in Gulf Shores

null

Sheepshead fish caught while fishing in Gulf Shores

Reeling in big catches on Gulf Shores waters.

Sheepshead fish caught in Gulf Shores

Light tackle fishing for Sheepshead.

Two sheepshead fish caught in Gulf Shores

Calm waters, great company, and plenty of fish.

A beautiful coastal landscape in Gulf Shores

Kids enjoying their first fishing trip with Captai

5 sheepshead and black drum fish caught in AL

Sheepshead fight keeps anglers on their toes.

Best fishing trip in AL

Lively fishing action in the heart of Gulf Shores.

8 huge black drum fish caught while fishing in Gulf Shores

Fishing licenses included—just show up and fish!

A photo of two people fishing for sheepshead in the Gulf Shores

null

8 black drum fish caught while fishing in AL

null

6 fish caught in Gulf Shores

null

Sheepshead fish caught while fishing in Gulf Shores

Reeling in big catches on Gulf Shores waters.

Sheepshead fish caught in Gulf Shores

Light tackle fishing for Sheepshead.

Two sheepshead fish caught in Gulf Shores

Calm waters, great company, and plenty of fish.

A beautiful coastal landscape in Gulf Shores

Kids enjoying their first fishing trip with Captai

5 sheepshead and black drum fish caught in AL

Sheepshead fight keeps anglers on their toes.

Best fishing trip in AL

Lively fishing action in the heart of Gulf Shores.

8 huge black drum fish caught while fishing in Gulf Shores

Fishing licenses included—just show up and fish!

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