Daphne Fishing Charters & Guides

Daphne Fishing Charters

Daphne, Alabama, also known as the “Jubilee City,” is situated on the eastern shores of Mobile Bay. Its nickname comes from a natural phenomenon that occurs here, known as a “jubilee.” This is when thousands of crab and shrimp swarm from the deeper waters into the shallower, coastal waters of the bay. This event typically occurs in the early hours of a summer morning, during which beachfront residents will ring bells and shine lights to alert others of the bountiful, easy harvest. The spectacle takes on the appearance of a large celebration, or “jubilee.” Tokyo Bay is the only other place in the entire world that experiences a similar phenomenon. Given the town’s nickname, the Jubilee has been a long standing part of Daphne’s history. So what’s there to do here when the shoreline isn’t being swarmed by crustaceans? There are a number of local piers and boardwalks that present an opportunity to take in the local fauna and wildlife, while those looking to get closer to the action may opt for an airboat tour. Fairhope Avenue is another local attraction, home to parks, cafes, restaurants, and a sweeping view of the bay. Speaking of the bay, anglers will be delighted to learn that there are a variety of species that call it home.

Daphne Inshore Fishing

Inshore fishing out of Daphne means cruising Mobile Bay for some of the usual inshore Gulf suspects. Trout, redfish, and flounder are usually at the top of inshore anglers’ lists, while jack, Spanish mackerel, and black drum can be caught as well. Redfish may be the most sought-after inshore species in this area, and for good reason. These fish are strong and stubborn, with tackle-testing stamina. The real prize is a “bull” redfish. Although the exact size is often debated, this designation is typically earned once a redfish grows to be over 27 inches. Aside from their size and adrenaline-pumping battles, anglers also love redfish for their willingness to hit a number of different baits. Shrimp, crab, smaller fish, cut bait, and a variety of artificials can all produce a bite. Though redfish can be caught year round in Daphne, anglers will have their best shot at a bull in the fall. October, November, and December are all prime months to target big reds in the bay. It is not uncommon to come across a school of redfish feeding on a surrounded school of bait. This is typically marked by circling birds and disturbances on the water’s surface. If you see this occurring, you’re in for some action. Throw just about any bait or lure into the fray and hang on. Double and triple hookups can occur with multiple anglers on the same boat. Speckled seatrout, also referred to as “specks” or simply “trout,” are known for their aggressive nature and willingness to strike a variety of baits, both natural and artificial. Though not as big as redfish, trout still put up a scrappy battle on light tackle. They are also popular due to their abundance. During peak season, it is not uncommon for anglers to catch over a dozen trout in a single fishing spot. Your best bet at getting a larger trout, referred to as a “gator trout,” is in the summer and winter. Contact a local Daphne fishing guide to learn when and where the trout are biting.

Daphne Offshore Fishing

The bay offers great inshore fishing, however past the bay lies the open Gulf. Popular species in these open waters include snapper, cobia, kingfish, amberjack, tuna, mahi and more. When it comes to the variety of snapper that call the Gulf home, the red snapper is the most highly targeted. This fish is known to be outstanding table fare, and can grow to 20 pounds or more. Anglers will fish deeper water, typically around wrecks or reefs. Although this species is very desirable, it is also very heavily regulated. Be sure to check the latest regulations, limits, and seasons before heading out to harvest any red snapper. Cobia are a very strong fish that are also found around reefs, wrecks, floating debris, and buoys or markers. Cobia however typically cruise closer to the surface. They will hit a variety of natural and artificial baits, but eels and eel imitation lures are reported to be among the most effective. Another great cobia bait is hardhead catfish. Hardhead catfish are known as a nuisance fish inshore, often stealing your bait when targeting other species. Lucky for cobia enthusiasts, this just means that this prime bait is easier to catch. Cobia have a reputation for busting up tackle when gaffed “green,” or before they are truly tired. Some captains even intentionally scare a cobia into a final run prior to pulling it aboard to ensure that it is worn out and will not thrash around the deck. King mackerel, also known as Kingfish, are built for speed. Their battles are marked by several high speed, line stripping runs. They are often caught trolling, and can grow to be well over 50 pounds. The moniker “smoker” is designated for kingfish over 30 pounds, with the name stemming from the literal smoke that can be seen coming from the reel’s drag system on a run. The Kingfish prefers warmer waters, and as such, peak season for kingfish off of Daphne is in the middle of summer.

Book A Daphne Fishing Charter

Whether you want to chase down redfish in the bay or head to open water for some world class snapper fishing, Daphne is a prime Gulf fishing destination. Search local Daphne fishing charters, and reserve your next trip with a 10% deposit at FishAnywhere.com today!