Nearshore Fishing Charters: Fort Morgan to Pensacola
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Nearshore trolling for Spanish and King Mackerel offshoreExpert guides provide equipment and local fishing knowledgeFourguest capacity trips available August through May
Looking for some serious action without burning a full tank of fuel getting to the fishing grounds? Our nearshore trolling charters from Fort Morgan Alabama to Pensacola Florida put you right in the sweet spot where the mackerel run thick and the bites come fast. We're talking about those productive waters just 3-8 miles off the beach where Spanish and King Mackerel patrol the drop-offs and structure. This isn't your typical inshore grind – we're targeting pelagic species that fight like freight trains and taste even better on the dinner table. With trips running from August through late May, you'll hit these waters during prime time when the mackerel are most active and hungry.
Your day starts with a quick ride out to the nearshore grounds where we'll set up our trolling spread. We keep our groups small – just 4 anglers max – so everyone gets plenty of rod time and personal attention from our crew. The beauty of this fishery is the consistent action; when we're on fish, multiple rods can go off simultaneously, turning the cockpit into controlled chaos. You'll be working with quality tackle designed for these hard-fighting species, and our crew handles all the rigging and boat positioning. The coastal views are a nice bonus, but trust me, once that first King Mackerel starts screaming drag, you won't be looking at the scenery. We fish these waters year-round during our season because they consistently produce, and the relatively short run means more time with lines in the water instead of burning fuel to reach distant offshore spots.
Nearshore trolling is all about presenting the right baits at the right speed over productive bottom. We run a spread of spoons, diving plugs, and rigged ballyhoo at speeds between 6-12 knots, adjusting based on conditions and what the fish are telling us. Our downriggers and planers help us cover different depths in the water column, from surface feeders down to fish hugging structure 40-60 feet down. The gear we use is built for the punishment these mackerel dish out – medium-heavy spinning and conventional setups with smooth drags that can handle those blistering initial runs. Wire leaders are essential since both Spanish and King Mackerel have razor-sharp teeth that'll slice through mono in a heartbeat. We monitor our fish finder constantly, looking for baitfish concentrations, temperature breaks, and bottom changes that typically hold feeding mackerel. When we mark fish or see surface activity, we'll often switch tactics and throw live bait or jigs to capitalize on the active bite.
King Mackerel are the heavyweight champions of our nearshore waters, with fish ranging from schoolie-sized "smokers" around 10-15 pounds up to genuine trophy kings pushing 40+ pounds. These fish are built for speed and endurance, with torpedo-shaped bodies and incredible stamina that'll test your arms and your drag system. Peak season runs from late summer through early winter when cooler water temperatures draw them closer to shore. Kings are ambush predators that patrol drop-offs and structure looking for schools of sardines, cigar minnows, and other baitfish. What makes them so exciting to catch is their explosive strike followed by multiple long runs that can strip hundreds of yards of line in seconds. They're also fantastic table fare when handled properly, with firm white meat that's perfect for grilling or smoking.
Spanish Mackerel might be smaller than their king cousins, but they make up for it with sheer numbers and acrobatic fights that include impressive jumps and surface thrashing. Most Spanish run between 2-5 pounds, though we see plenty of "bull" Spanish that push 6-7 pounds during peak season. They're incredibly aggressive feeders that'll hit just about anything moving through the water column at the right speed. Fall months are prime time for Spanish as they school up in massive numbers during their southward migration. These fish are perfect for anglers who want consistent action and great eating – their mild, flaky meat is excellent fried, grilled, or smoked. Spanish also make fantastic live bait for larger predators like cobia and sharks when the opportunity presents itself during the charter.
Our nearshore mackerel charters deliver exactly what serious anglers want: consistent action, quality fish, and a crew that knows these waters inside and out. Whether you're looking to put meat in the cooler, introduce kids to offshore-style fishing, or just enjoy a day of steady action without the expense and time commitment of a full offshore trip, this is your ticket. The seasonal nature of our fishery means the best dates fill up fast, especially during peak fall and winter months when the fishing is absolutely lights-out. We provide all the tackle, rigging, and local knowledge – you just need to bring your fishing license, sun protection, and cooler space for your catch. Don't sleep on booking your dates, particularly if you're planning a weekend trip during prime season. These mackerel won't wait around, and neither should you.
Meet our dependable 24-foot Sailfish center console, your ticket to productive nearshore waters between Fort Morgan and Pensacola. Built in 2019 and powered by twin 150HP Yamahas, this fishing machine cruises comfortably at 24 knots to get you on the fish fast. Perfect for groups up to four anglers targeting Spanish and King Mackerel just miles offshore. The boat comes fully rigged with everything serious fishermen need - GPS navigation keeps you on the productive spots, radar handles those foggy mornings, and the fish finder helps locate schools beneath the surface. The wireless trolling motor lets you work structure quietly without spooking fish. An onboard icebox keeps your catch fresh and drinks cold, while the head adds convenience for longer trips. Whether you're dragging baits for kings or casting to Spanish mackerel schools, this well-maintained vessel delivers reliable performance in the productive nearshore waters off Alabama and Florida's coast.
Scomberomorus CavallaKings are the trophy fish most anglers dream about out here. These silver bullets typically run 20-40 pounds, though we see 50+ pounders that'll test your arms. They cruise 40-150 feet deep around structure and temperature breaks, feeding heavily on blue runners and menhaden. August through May is prime time when they're migrating through our waters. What makes them special? Pure speed and power - they'll scream line off your reel faster than almost any fish in the Gulf. The meat's rich and flaky when grilled fresh. Pro tip: always use a wire leader and double-hook your live bait - kings love to bite the tail end first, so that stinger hook back there will save you from a lot of heartbreak.
Scomberomorus MaculatusSpanish mackerel are the perfect fish for getting kids and beginners hooked on fishing. These sleek, spotted speedsters average 1-3 pounds and swim in huge schools near the surface. You'll find them around structure, grass flats, and oyster bars in 20-60 feet of water. They're most active during our August-May season, especially on calm mornings. What guests love is the constant action - when you find a school, everyone catches fish. They fight hard for their size with quick runs and jumps. Plus, they're outstanding table fare with mild, flaky white meat that's perfect grilled or blackened. Local secret: when trolling, slow down to 3-4 knots and use small spoons or jigs - these fish are fast but they prefer an easy meal.
Orange Beach, AL