Mobile Bay Fishing Piers

The state of Alabama may only have a small slice of the Gulf Coast compared to the other Gulf States (such as Texas, Louisiana, and Florida). But what it lacks in shoreline, it makes up for with the abundant fishery of Mobile Bay. Mobile Bay is formed by the Fort Morgan Peninsula to the east, and a barrier island, Dauphin Island, to the west. Several freshwater rivers empty into the bay at the northern end, including the Mobile River and Tensaw River. The rivers mix with saltwater from the Gulf of Mexico and create the 4th largest estuary in the United States. Mobile Bay is 31 miles long and at its widest runs 24 miles wide; the average depth of the bay is 10ft, but can reach depths of 75ft. When Alabamians decide to head to the gulf, they undoubtedly end up at Mobile Bay. Beachgoers, boaters, swimmers, and anglers each find something special here. For those looking to cast a few rods, you’re sure to see gator trout, flounder, and bull reds aplenty. And if you don’t happen to have a boat, there’s no need to worry. You can either fish from the shoreline, or check out these local piers:

Meaher State Park

Visitors to Meaher State Park will definitely have a great day. The 1,327 acre state park is located in Spanish Fort, Alabama at the north-end of Mobile Bay. Access the park from Battleship Parkway (or the “Causeway” as locals refer to it) and spend a day exploring the wetlands and brackish waters. Among the activities available at Meaher State Park is of course fishing. Anglers can either launch a boat from the nearby boat ramp, or visit the pier to cast your line. The 300-foot pier has an additional 200-foot cross-section for anglers to access the bay and, more specifically, the Mobile Delta. The Mobile Delta is the largest river delta and wetland in Alabama. Here anglers will find over 20,000 acres of water, formed by the junction of the Alabama and Tombigbee Rivers. The many creeks, rivers, and lakes that make up the Mobile Delta produce a healthy fish population, full of highly-sought after spotted trout, redfish, black drum, flounder, sheepshead and more. For those in the family who may want to do something other than fishing, there is a second boardwalk at Meaher State Park for walking only. This location offers visitors a fantastic view of the park and local wildlife. Bring some binoculars and a camera to capture it all! The park is open from 7am to sunset, or plan to stay a few days in a campsite. For day use only, the fee is $2 per person. If you’re launching your boat, there is a $4 boat entry fee.

Fairhope Municipal Pier

Fairhope, Alabama is located on the east side of Mobile Bay. It’s a quaint town with great shops and family-owned restaurants. When you visit the Fairhope “town square” you’ll have access to walking trails, a landscaped rose garden, picnic areas, and the 1,448 foot pier. The is located at the west end of Fairhope Avenue. The original pier was destroyed by Hurricane Katrina in August of 2005; the newly rebuilt pier opened in November 2006. It’s designed for strolling and fishing, and features covered areas, restrooms, benches, and a local restaurant. There is no entry fee at the pier, but anglers will need a saltwater license when fishing. The fishing is best in the early morning or late hours of the day. White trout and spotted trout are caught regularly here, as are flounder. Flounder are flatfish that lay along the bottom of the bay; cast live shrimp and you’re sure to feel a strike. You can also check around the pilings for sheepshead; a great species for first-time anglers to get the hang of things. Other fish available here include redfish, black drum, gafftop catfish and more.

Cedar Point Fishing Pier

The most southern pier in Mobile Bay is the Cedar Point Fishing Pier. It’s located at the tip of Cedar Point, a barrier island near Dauphin Island. Access the pier from the Dauphin Island Parkway, it’s located on the westside of Cedar Point. This is a privately owned pier, so there is a cost of $6 for each adult and $3 for children 6-10 years old. If you are an Alabama resident you don’t need a fishing license to fish from the pier. Flounder and spotted trout are the top species at Cedar Point Fishing Pier. Fish for spotted trout during late summer or early fall for best results. Use live shrimp under a slip cork for a successful catch. Other species found here include bull minnows, redfish, black drum, and white trout. Just across the bay is Dauphin Island with tons of shoreline and jetties. Many anglers will also check out this nearby fishery when near Cedar Point; it’s like two great fishing spots in one!

Fishing Mobile Bay

Anglers are sure to be singing “Sweet Home Alabama” when fishing Mobile Bay. Or quoting Forrest Gump. There are so many things to love about this great state, and fishing Mobile Bay is definitely one of them! If you’re not sure where to start, hire a professional charter captain to help you out. They will have everything you need for a great day on the water. Start your next adventure with a and get ready to enjoy your Mobile Bay fishing day!