Half Day Snapper And Mackerel Fishing Trip
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Halfday offshore fishing targeting red snapper and Spanish mackerelAll equipment, bait, and fishing licenses included with tripCatch cleaning and filleting service provided at trip conclusion
Picture this: you're standing on the deck of Charter Boat Dorado as the Alabama sun hits the Gulf waters, and you're about to drop lines on some of the best fishing grounds around Dauphin Island. This half-day offshore adventure puts you right where the red snapper and Spanish mackerel are biting, plus you never know when a shark or jack might crash the party. Whether you're bringing the family for their first taste of offshore fishing or you're a seasoned angler looking for a solid day on the water, this trip delivers exactly what you're after. Captain and crew handle all the details - gear, bait, licenses, even cleaning your catch - so you can focus on what matters: getting fish in the boat.
Your day starts with a choice between two departure times that work around your schedule - early birds can catch the 7:00 AM trip, while those who prefer a slower morning can opt for the 1:30 PM departure. Either way, you're looking at four solid hours of fishing time in prime Gulf waters. The boat accommodates up to six anglers, making it perfect for groups who want the whole vessel to themselves without paying charter rates for a bigger crowd. Once you're on the fishing grounds, expect to see plenty of action. The waters off Dauphin Island are known for holding fish year-round, and the captain knows exactly where to position the boat based on current conditions, bait movement, and seasonal patterns. You'll be fishing structure and drop-offs where these species love to hang out, and the crew will keep you in the fish all day long.
This is classic bottom fishing and trolling action, depending on what's biting best that day. For red snapper, you'll be dropping baits to the bottom around structure - think chicken rigs with circle hooks loaded with fresh cut bait or live baitfish. The crew provides all the tackle, from the heavy conventional reels that can handle big snapper to the lighter spinning gear perfect for mackerel. When the Spanish mackerel are running, expect to troll with spoons, small plugs, or live bait to cover water and find the schools. The boat comes equipped with quality rods and reels that can handle anything from 2-pound mackerel to 20-pound snapper, plus all the terminal tackle, weights, and bait you'll need. Circle hooks are standard for snapper fishing - they're required by law and they work better anyway, hooking fish in the corner of the mouth for better survival rates on releases. The crew will rig everything and show first-timers how to feel the bite and set the hook properly.
Red snapper are the crown jewel of Gulf fishing, and Dauphin Island waters hold some beauties. These fish are structure-oriented, hanging around reefs, wrecks, and hard bottom in 60-100 feet of water. They're aggressive biters when you find them, but they're also smart - you need fresh bait and the right presentation to consistently boat keeper-size fish. Snapper season typically runs from June through July, with some fall dates added in recent years as the population has rebounded. What makes them so exciting to catch is that fight - they'll make strong runs toward the bottom, trying to cut your line on the structure, and they've got the weight to really load up your rod. Plus, there's nothing better than a fresh snapper fillet on the dinner table.
Spanish mackerel are the speed demons of this fishery, and they're a blast on lighter tackle. These fish are constantly on the move, following bait schools through the area from spring through fall. They hit hard and fast, often jumping and making screaming runs that'll have you grinning from ear to ear. Mackerel are perfect for kids and new anglers because they bite aggressively and fight well for their size. They typically run 1-4 pounds in these waters, though bigger ones show up during peak season in late summer and early fall. What's great about targeting mackerel is the non-stop action - when you find a school, you can catch them as fast as you can get baits in the water. They're also excellent table fare when prepared fresh, with firm white meat that's perfect for the grill.
At $1,150 for up to six anglers, this trip offers serious value for a private charter experience. You're getting a top-rated captain who knows these waters inside and out, all the gear and bait you need, fishing licenses covered, and your catch cleaned and filleted at the end of the day. That's everything handled so you can just show up ready to fish. The half-day format is perfect for families with kids, visitors who want to experience Gulf fishing without committing a full day, or local anglers looking for a quick fix when the fish are biting. With morning and afternoon departure options, you can easily work this around other vacation plans or weekend activities. Don't wait too long to secure your dates - good charter captains book up fast, especially during prime fishing season when the snapper are biting and the mackerel schools are thick.
Get ready to hit the productive waters off Dauphin Island aboard this well-equipped motorboat designed for serious angling. Twin 300HP Suzuki four-stroke engines deliver the power you need to reach those offshore honey holes where red snapper, Spanish mackerel, sharks, and jacks are waiting. The spacious layout comfortably accommodates up to 6 anglers, giving everyone plenty of room to work their lines without getting tangled up. Modern GPS navigation keeps you on course to the best fishing grounds, while the onboard fish finder helps locate schools and structure where the action heats up. Whether you're dropping bottom rigs for snapper or trolling for mackerel, this boat handles Gulf conditions with confidence. The reliable twin outboards mean you'll spend more time with lines in the water and less time worrying about getting back to the dock. Perfect for both seasoned anglers looking to fill the cooler and newcomers wanting to experience what Gulf fishing is all about.
Lutjanus CampechanusRed snapper are the prize catch around here, growing 1-3 feet and weighing up to 35 pounds - though most we see run 5-10 pounds. These bottom dwellers love structure in 30-200 feet of water, hanging around reefs, wrecks, and rocky ledges. They're bright red with that classic snapper profile and white belly. Spring through fall gives you the best action when they're most active. What makes them special? They fight hard, diving straight for cover when hooked, and the meat is top-notch - mild, flaky, and perfect for the dinner table. My tip: use circle hooks with live pinfish or cut squid, drop it right to the bottom, and be ready to muscle them up quick before they wrap you around structure.
Scomberomorus MaculatusSpanish mackerel are speed demons that'll test your reflexes. These silver bullets with yellow spots typically run 1-2 feet and 2-8 pounds, swimming in schools near the surface. They love open water around structure but also cruise the flats and nearshore areas. Spring through fall is prime time when water warms up - that's when they're most active and aggressive. What draws people to them? They're lightning fast, make blistering runs, and put up a scrappy fight on light tackle. Plus they're excellent eating with that mild, not-too-fishy taste. Here's the trick: when you see birds diving or bait jumping, get there fast but don't motor right through the school. Cast shiny spoons or live shrimp ahead of the school and let them come to you.
Dauphin Island, AL