Ready to tangle with some serious Gulf bruisers? Our 8-hour private wreck and reef fishing trip is your ticket to hooking into the big boys that call Dauphin Island's offshore waters home. We're talking monster Amberjack that'll make your arms burn, Red Snapper so big they look like submarine conning towers, and sharks that'll have you questioning whether you need a bigger boat. With room for up to 6 anglers, this full-day adventure gives you the time and flexibility to really work those prime spots where the big fish hang out. At $2,000 for the whole boat, it's a sweet deal for groups looking to get after some quality Gulf action.
We'll be shoving off at the crack of dawn - 6 AM sharp. Trust me, you'll want every minute out there once you see what these waters can produce. We're not messing around with the inshore stuff on this trip. We're heading to the deep blue, where the real monsters lurk. We'll hit productive wreck sites that are basically fish condos, and explore reef zones teeming with life. And here's a pro tip - we've got electric reels on board. If you've never used one, you're in for a treat. They're a game-changer when you're fishing deep or battling big fish all day. No need to wear yourself out cranking - save that energy for the fight at the surface!
Alright, let's talk fish. We're not out here chasing bait-stealers. Our targets are the cream of the Gulf crop. Amberjack are like freight trains with fins - hook into one of these and you'll know why we call 'em "reef donkeys". Red Snapper are always a crowd-pleaser, with their gorgeous color and excellent table fare. Cobia, or "ling" as the old-timers call 'em, are sneaky strong fighters that'll test your stamina. King Mackerel are speed demons - when they hit, hold on tight! For the shark enthusiasts, we've got opportunities for Bull and Tiger Sharks that'll get your heart racing. And don't sleep on the Vermilion Snapper, Scamp Grouper, and Tilefish - they might not be the biggest, but they're delicious and fun to catch.
Flexibility is the name of the game on this trip. With 8 full hours, we can adapt to what's biting and what you want to target. Maybe you want to focus on filling the cooler with tasty reef fish. Or perhaps you're after that trophy photo with a shark. We can do it all. And hey, if something comes up, no sweat - we offer free cancellation up to 3 days before the trip. It's all about making sure you have the best day possible on the water. Our customers dig that laid-back Gulf Coast vibe combined with the serious fishing action we deliver.
"Fishing 🎣 Great guys to fish with" - Jimmy
King Mackerel: These sleek torpedoes are the speedsters of the Gulf. They'll smoke a reel faster than you can say "fish on!" Kingfish, as we often call 'em, typically range from 10 to 30 pounds, but 40-pounders aren't unheard of. They're a blast to catch on lighter tackle, and their smoking-hot runs will have you grinning from ear to ear. Best time to target them is late spring through fall when they're chasing bait schools near the surface.
Cobia: Also known as ling or lemonfish, these brown bruisers are like the linebackers of the sea. They're curious fish, often swimming right up to the boat to check things out. That's when you want to be ready with a live bait or a well-placed jig. Cobia average 20 to 40 pounds, but 60-pounders are trophy class. They're hard fighters, known for powerful runs and acrobatic jumps. Spring and early summer are prime time for cobia as they migrate along the coast.
Tiger Shark: Now we're talking serious apex predators. Tiger sharks are the garbage disposals of the ocean - they'll eat just about anything. These beasts can grow over 14 feet long and weigh north of 1,400 pounds. They're not as common as some other shark species, which makes landing one a real notch in your belt. We typically encounter them in the warmer months when they move into shallower waters. Fighting a tiger shark is an endurance test - be ready for a long, arm-burning battle.
Bull Shark: Don't let the name fool you - these aren't no rodeo clowns. Bull sharks are stocky, aggressive, and pound-for-pound some of the strongest fish in the sea. They average 200 to 290 pounds but can get much bigger. What makes them unique is their ability to tolerate freshwater, sometimes venturing miles upriver. We can target them year-round, but summer is usually best. When a bull shark takes your bait, hang on tight - they're known for explosive runs and dogged determination.
Red Snapper: The poster child of Gulf fishing, Red Snapper are as beautiful as they are delicious. Their bright red color makes for great photos, and their flaky white meat is top-notch table fare. They typically range from 5 to 20 pounds, but 30-pounders are possible. Red Snapper love structure, so we'll be dropping baits near wrecks and reefs. The fight is all about power - they'll try to dive back to their hideyholes, so you've got to turn their heads quick. The season is tightly regulated, but when it's open, it's game on!
Look, if you're serious about putting some bend in your rod and some fish in the box, this 8-hour trip is the way to go. We've got the local know-how, the right gear, and access to the hottest spots off Dauphin Island. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to tangle with some Gulf giants or a group of friends wanting to experience the thrill of offshore fishing, we've got you covered. Remember, we can only take 6 anglers max, so don't wait too long to lock in your date. The big ones are out there waiting - let's go get 'em!
June 1, 2023
Bull Sharks are the bruisers of our local waters, packing a punch at 8-12 feet long and up to 300 pounds. These adaptable predators thrive in both salt and freshwater, often hanging out in shallow coastal areas and even rivers. Summer's your best shot at hooking one around here. Bulls are known for their aggressive nature and powerful runs - expect a real workout when you tie into one of these tanks. While we catch and release, the adrenaline rush of battling a bull shark is hard to beat. To up your chances, try using fresh-cut bait like mackerel or mullet. Freshwater eel is a top-secret weapon - bulls can't resist that oily scent. When you're hooked up, keep steady pressure and be ready for sudden, powerful surges.
Cobia are like the bulldogs of the Gulf - stocky, powerful, and ready to brawl. Most run 30-50 pounds, but 100-pounders aren't unheard of. You'll find them hanging around structure in 30-70 feet of water, often near the surface. Spring and early summer are prime, when they're migrating and spawning. Cobia put up a mean fight, with long runs and stubborn tactics near the boat. Their firm, white meat is delicious any way you cook it. These fish are curious, so sometimes they'll swim right up to the boat. When that happens, toss a live eel or a big jig their way. Let it sink a bit, then start a slow retrieve. Be ready though - when they hit, it's like a freight train!
King Mackerel are speed demons of the Gulf, giving anglers a real rush when hooked. These silver missiles typically run 20-30 pounds but can top 90. Look for them in depths of 40-150 feet, often near structure. They're most active in warmer months when water temps hit the upper 60s. Kings are prized for their blistering runs and aerial acrobatics - be ready for some serious drag-screaming action. Their flesh is rich and oily, great for smoking. To boost your odds, try slow-trolling live bait like blue runners or menhaden. Keep an eye out for birds working bait schools, that's often where the kings are hunting. When you hook up, be patient and let them run. These fish have soft mouths, so a steady pressure works better than horsing them in.
Red Snapper are the crimson kings of the Gulf, usually running 5-10 pounds but capable of hitting 35+. You'll find them hugging structure in 30-300 feet of water. The season's short but sweet, typically opening in June. Anglers love targeting these fish for their hard-fighting nature and absolutely stellar table fare. When you hook a big one, be ready for a battle - they'll try to dive back to their rocky homes. For best results, use fresh cut bait or live pinfish. Here's a local trick: once you find a good spot, drop a weighted chum bag to keep the snappers interested. When you feel that telltale thump, reel fast and pull hard to get them away from the structure. There's nothing quite like seeing that flash of red coming up from the deep!
Tiger Sharks are the striped behemoths of our waters, often stretching 11-14 feet and weighing up to 1,400 pounds. You'll find them cruising coastal areas, reefs, and occasionally venturing into surprisingly shallow water. These nomads follow warm currents, so late spring through fall is your best bet. Anglers love targeting tigers for the sheer power and endurance they bring to a fight - it's not uncommon for battles to last hours. While we practice catch and release, the thrill of bringing one alongside is unforgettable. If you're serious about landing a tiger, patience is key. Set up a solid chum slick and use fresh, oily bait like mackerel or tuna. When you hook up, be ready for a long, grueling fight. These sharks don't give up easy.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 50
Number of Engines: 3
Horsepower per Engine: 300
Fishing 🎣 Great guys to fish with