Hey there, anglers and adventure-seekers! If you're looking for a perfect family day out on the water, you've just stumbled upon a real gem. Captain Richard's half-day fishing trip in Fort Morgan is the kind of experience that'll have the whole family talking for weeks. Whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time holding a rod, this trip's got something for everyone. We're talking about reeling in some of Alabama's most exciting inshore species while soaking up the beauty of Mobile Bay. And the best part? You might just spot a playful pod of dolphins along the way!
Alright, let's break it down for you. This isn't your average fishing charter – it's a full-on family adventure. Captain Richard's boat is like a floating living room, with plenty of space for up to 6 people to spread out and get comfortable. No need to worry about bringing any gear; we've got you covered from rods to reels to bait. And when the action heats up, you'll be targeting some of the Gulf Coast's most sought-after inshore species: Sea Trout, Redfish, and Spanish Mackerel. The waters around Fort Morgan are teeming with these guys, so get ready for some bent rods and screaming reels!
Now, let's talk fishing. If you're new to this, don't sweat it – Captain Richard's got the patience of a saint and the know-how to get you catching fish in no time. We'll likely be using a mix of techniques, from live bait fishing to artificial lures, depending on what the fish are biting that day. You might find yourself casting near grass flats for trout or working a popping cork for redfish. And when those Spanish Mackerel are running, hold onto your hat – these speedsters will give you a fight to remember. The best part? The waters here are usually calm, so you can focus on the fishing without worrying about your sea legs.
Let's dive into the stars of the show – the fish you'll be chasing. First up, we've got the Speckled Sea Trout. These guys are like the bread and butter of inshore fishing around here. They're known for their spotted backs and their willingness to bite – perfect for keeping the kids entertained. Then there's the Redfish, or Red Drum if you're feeling fancy. These copper-colored beauties can put up a serious fight, especially when you hook into a big bull red. Last but not least, the Spanish Mackerel – these are the speedsters of the bay. When they're around, it's non-stop action that'll have everyone's adrenaline pumping.
Look, I've been guiding these waters for years, and I can tell you, there's something special about fishing Fort Morgan. Maybe it's the way the sun rises over the bay, painting the sky in pinks and oranges. Or perhaps it's the thrill of watching a kid's face light up when they reel in their first fish. Whatever it is, it keeps families coming back year after year. And let's not forget – at the end of the trip, we'll clean your catch for you. Nothing beats the taste of fresh fish you caught yourself, grilled up for dinner that night.
Alright, let's get up close and personal with our target species. First, the Speckled Sea Trout – these guys are the chatterers of the bay. They make a distinctive 'drumming' sound underwater, which is pretty cool when you hear it. They love to hang around structure, so we'll be targeting grass flats, oyster beds, and drop-offs. The best time to catch them? Early morning or late evening when they're actively feeding.
Next up, Redfish. These copper-colored fighters are a favorite among anglers for good reason. They've got a distinctive black spot on their tail, which according to local legend, is there because the devil grabbed them by the tail. Redfish love shallow water and will often be found 'tailing' – their tails sticking out of the water as they root around for crabs on the bottom. Fall is prime time for big bull reds, but you can catch them year-round in Fort Morgan.
Last but not least, Spanish Mackerel. These guys are the speedsters of the bay, known for their blistering runs and acrobatic jumps. They're migratory fish, typically showing up in our waters from spring to fall. When they're around, the action is fast and furious. They travel in schools, so when you find one, you've usually found a bunch. Light tackle and fast retrieves are the name of the game with these silver bullets.
So there you have it, folks – a half-day of fishing that's guaranteed to create some lasting memories. Whether you're looking to introduce the kids to the joys of fishing, or you're just after a relaxing day on the water with a chance at some great catches, Captain Richard's got you covered. The boat's waiting, the fish are biting, and Fort Morgan's beautiful coastline is calling your name. Don't let this chance slip away – book your trip now and get ready for some serious family fun on the water. Trust me, the only thing you'll regret is not doing it sooner!
Redfish are a prized catch in our shallow coastal waters, typically weighing 8-40 pounds. Look for them in 1-4 feet of water, often so shallow their backs break the surface. They love hanging around oyster reefs, seagrass, and muddy bottoms. These copper-colored beauties put up an incredible fight and are known for their distinctive black tail spot. Spring and fall are prime seasons, but you can catch them year-round. They'll hit just about any bait that fits in their mouth, from inch-long flies to big topwater plugs. Redfish make great eating too, with a light, sweet flavor that's hard to beat. For best results, try sight-casting with a weedless jig or topwater lure in the shallows. A local tip: On sunny days, scan for their tails sticking up as they feed - it's an exciting way to spot and target these fish. Whether you're after a trophy catch or a delicious dinner, redfish won't disappoint.
Sea trout are a favorite catch in Mobile Bay, typically running 14-24 inches and 1-5 pounds. These silvery, spotted fish love hanging around grass flats and shallow waters, especially at night. In winter, they school up in deeper spots up to 164 feet down. They put up a great fight and make excellent table fare with their mild, flaky white meat. Spring and fall are prime seasons, but you can catch them year-round. Use artificial lures like jerk baits, topwater plugs, or plastic shrimp - sea trout are aggressive strikers. For best results, try trolling slowly along grass flats or casting near structure. Remember not to overcook them, or they'll get mushy fast. A local trick: On calm evenings, look for subtle surface disturbances. That's often sea trout feeding, and a well-placed lure can lead to an exciting bite. Whether you're after a tasty dinner or just want to feel that tug on the line, sea trout offer fun for anglers of all skill levels.
Spanish mackerel are speedy swimmers that'll test your skills. These sleek, silver fish with yellow spots typically run 1-2 feet long and 8-11 pounds. Look for them in large schools near the surface, often around structures in open water. They're most active in warmer months when they move closer to shore. That's when you can catch them from piers, jetties, or even the beach. Spanish mackerel are known for their fast runs and acrobatic jumps - it's a blast when one hits your line. These fish make great eating too, whether grilled, fried, or even as sushi. For best results, try trolling with shiny spoons or casting live bait like sardines or mullet. A local trick: If you see birds diving, there's likely a school of mackerel feeding below. Cast into the frenzy and hold on tight - you're in for some fast action. Whether you're after a fun fight or a tasty meal, Spanish mackerel deliver on both counts.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 30
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 150