5.0(1 Reviews)Full Day Deep Drop Fishing Charter Fort Morgan
5.0(1 reviews)
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Fourteenhour deep drop charter targeting snowy grouper and snapperElectric reels provided for fishing 4001,200 foot depths offshoreAll tackle, bait, and professional guidance included for six guests
When you're ready to get serious about deep water fishing, this fourteen-hour charter out of Fort Morgan takes you where the big fish live. We're talking 40 to 60 miles offshore, hitting depths of 400 to 1,200 feet where the bottom structure holds some of Alabama's best eating fish. This isn't your typical half-day trip - we stay out there long enough to work multiple spots and put you on the fish that make it all worthwhile. Captain Seth and his crew know these waters like the back of their hand, and they've got the electric reels and tackle to handle whatever comes up from the deep.
This charter is all about maximizing your time in productive water. We leave Fort Morgan well before sunrise to make that long run out to the deep drop zones. The boat's equipped with everything you need - electric reels that do the heavy lifting when you're pulling fish up from 800 feet, all the terminal tackle, and fresh bait. The captain reads the bottom structure and current to position over the best spots, and when the bite slows down, we move. That's the beauty of having fourteen hours - no rushing, no settling for slow action. You've got an air-conditioned cabin to cool off between drops, which makes a huge difference on those hot Alabama summer days. With only six anglers max, everyone gets plenty of rod time and personal attention from the crew.
Deep drop fishing is a whole different game than shallow water bottom fishing. We're using electric reels because hand-cranking from 600+ feet would wear you out fast, especially when you're fighting a chunky grouper or snapper. The tackle setup includes heavy sinkers to get down quick and stay put in the current, circle hooks to improve hookup ratios, and wire leaders to handle the sharp-toothed critters down there. Bait presentation is key at these depths - we use fresh cut bait and whole baits that stay on the hook during the long drop. The captain uses his electronics to mark fish and structure, then positions the boat to drift over the most productive bottom. When fish are feeding, you'll know it - that electric reel will start screaming as something big loads up on the other end.
"what a great time! Seth asked us what we wanted out if this trip before we left the dock and gave us options for the day. It turned out great with many fish to bring home and a bunch we threw back. Seth and John were both helpful with ideas to keep us in the ideal fish depth and would move to another spot if the action slowed. I don't know how many fish we caught total but it was allot! We all kept busy to whole trip. I would highly recomend this trip for anyone. Bonus, large air conditioned cabin to get out of the heat if needed!" - Doug
Snowy Grouper are the crown jewel of deep drop fishing around Fort Morgan. These white and black spotted beauties live in 300 to 1,000 feet of water and can weigh anywhere from 8 to 30 pounds. They're year-round residents on the hard bottom and structure, making them reliable targets when you put in the time to reach their habitat. Snowies are prized for their firm white meat and mild flavor - many consider them the best eating grouper species. They fight hard on the way up, using their broad body to pull against you in the current.
Red Snapper remain one of the most sought-after species in Gulf waters, and the deep drop zones hold some real quality fish. These crimson beauties range from keeper-size up to trophy class specimens in the 15+ pound range. Red snapper are structure-oriented and aggressive feeders, often hitting baits as soon as they reach the bottom. Federal season dates vary, but when they're open, this deep water fishing puts you on less pressured fish than the shallower inshore reefs. Their sweet, flaky meat makes them a top choice for the dinner table.
Gag Grouper frequent the same deep water structure as the other bottom dwellers, offering another premium eating fish for the cooler. These gray and brown mottled grouper average 5 to 15 pounds in the deep drop zones, with larger specimens always possible. Gags are known for their initial strong run when hooked, often heading straight for the nearest ledge or cave. They're excellent table fare with white, flaky meat that's perfect for grilling or frying.
Mahi Mahi add some variety to the deep water action, often found around floating debris or temperature breaks during the warmer months. These colorful fighters put on a spectacular aerial show and grow quickly, with fish ranging from smaller schoolies up to bull dolphins pushing 40+ pounds. Their firm, pinkish meat is highly prized by restaurants and home cooks alike. While not always present in the deep drop zones, when conditions are right, they provide some of the most exciting action of the day.
Wahoo are the speed demons of the deep water, capable of scorching runs that will test your drag system and reflexes. These torpedo-shaped fish with razor-sharp teeth are typically found around structure in 200+ feet of water. A wahoo bite often comes without warning - one second you're dropping for grouper, the next your reel is smoking as a 30-pound fish makes a blistering run. Their white meat has a texture similar to tuna and is outstanding when prepared fresh.
This full day deep drop charter offers the kind of fishing that separates the weekend warriors from the serious anglers. You're investing in a full day of targeting the Gulf's premier eating fish with experienced guides who know how to put you on them. The combination of quality tackle, knowledgeable crew, and productive deep water grounds makes this a top-rated choice for groups looking to fill the cooler with restaurant-quality fish
Your deep drop fishing adventure starts aboard this classic 46' Hatteras, a proven offshore workhorse that's been putting anglers on fish for years. Twin 550HP Detroit engines push this reliable charter boat through Gulf waters at a steady 15 knots, getting your crew of up to 6 fishermen out to those productive deep-water spots 40-60 miles offshore. When you're grinding it out in 400-1,200 feet targeting snowy grouper and monster snappers, you'll appreciate the onboard amenities - AC keeps everyone cool between drops, there's a head and shower for the long haul, plus entertainment system and fridge stocked for the 14-hour grind. The electric reels do the heavy lifting while you focus on boat-loads of premium table fare. This boat handles the technical stuff so you can concentrate on filling the fish box with quality deep-water species that make the long run worthwhile.
Mycteroperca MicrolepisGag grouper are smart, structure-loving fish that'll test both your patience and your tackle. They typically run 20-30 inches and 5-15 pounds, though the big males can hit 40+ pounds. You'll find them around reefs, wrecks, and rocky bottom, usually in 60-120 feet of water. They're most active during cooler months and love live bait like pinfish or mullet. What makes them fun is they're ambush predators - they'll slam your bait hard then immediately try to get back to their hole. The fight is all about power and endurance, and the meat is top-shelf eating. My trick: once you feel that thump, lock down your drag and don't give them an inch. They'll try to wrap you around structure, so muscle them up and away from cover immediately.
Coryphaena HippurusMahi are some of the most beautiful fish you'll encounter out here, with those brilliant gold sides and electric blue backs that put on a light show when they come to the boat. These fast-growing fish typically run 15-30 pounds, though we see some pushing 50+ pounds. They love hanging around floating debris and weed lines in the warmer surface waters. Peak season runs May through September when water temps climb. What makes them special is that amazing fight - they'll jump, run, and give you everything they've got. Plus, the meat is outstanding - firm, white, and mild. Pro tip: when you hook one, keep your eyes peeled for others nearby since they often travel in small schools around the same structure.
Lutjanus CampechanusRed snapper are the Gulf's most sought-after fish, and for good reason - they fight hard and taste even better. Most of what we catch runs 15-25 inches and 3-8 pounds, though the big breeders can hit 20+ pounds. They live around structure in 80-200 feet, hugging reefs, wrecks, and rocky bottom. Season typically opens in summer, and they're aggressive feeders that'll hit live bait, cut bait, or jigs. What guests love is that classic snapper fight - they'll make strong runs for cover and test your drag. The meat is legendary - mild, sweet, and flaky. Here's my advice: once you hook one, don't give them slack. They'll head straight for the structure to cut you off, so keep that rod bent and pressure on.
Epinephelus Snowies are the prize of our deep drop trips - big, beautiful fish that live way down on rocky bottom in 400-800 feet of water. These copper-colored bruisers average 20-30 pounds but can push 50+ pounds, covered in those distinctive white spots that give them their name. Season runs May through August, and they're aggressive biters once you find them on the right structure. What makes them special is the combination of that bulldogging fight and premium table fare - sweet, flaky white meat that's hard to beat. The challenge is getting them up from those depths without their air bladder expanding too much. My tip: use whole squid or bonito strips on a chicken rig, and once you hook up, keep steady pressure coming up.
Acanthocybium SolandriWahoo are the speed demons of the Gulf, capable of hitting 60 mph when they take off with your bait. Most run 20-40 pounds and stretch 3-5 feet, with that distinctive torpedo shape and razor-sharp teeth. You'll find them cruising the blue water from spring through fall, often around the same areas we target other pelagics. They're loners mostly, but what they lack in numbers they make up for in pure adrenaline. The fight is lightning fast and the meat rivals the best - white, flaky, and perfect for the grill. Here's the key: use wire leaders because those teeth will slice through anything else like butter. When trolling, keep your speed up around 12-15 knots - slow down and you'll miss them completely.
5.0 out of 5.0what a great time! Seth asked us what we wanted out if this trip before we left the dock and gave us options for the day. It turne...
Fort Morgan