From Gulf Shores, Alabama, to Destin, Florida, fishing is more than a pastime—it’s a way of life. If you’ve ever dreamed of reeling in a big one with the sound of soothing waves as your soundtrack, the Gulf Coast is your playground. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a first-time fisher with a borrowed rod, there are endless ways to cast a line and enjoy fun in the sun.
Here’s how you can hook your next adventure—no boat required (unless you want one!).
1. Surf Fishing: Reel It In Right From the Shore
If you’ve got two feet and a fishing rod, you’re ready to try surf fishing. Walk straight from your condo or beach house onto the sand and start casting. Popular surf fishing spots include Perdido Key and Navarre Beach, where early risers often land catches like Pompano, Red Drum, and Whiting.
What you’ll need: A sand spike, a medium-heavy rod, and fresh bait like shrimp or sand fleas.
Pro tip: Go at sunrise or sunset when fish are most active—and don’t forget your fishing license!
2. Pier Fishing: Social, Scenic, and Perfect for Beginners
Gulf Coast piers are made for memories. With panoramic views and a friendly atmosphere, places like the Gulf State Park Pier in Gulf Shores and the Navarre Beach Fishing Pier offer easy access to deeper waters without setting foot on a boat. Here, you might hook into Spanish Mackerel, Sheepshead, King Mackerel, or even Cobia during migration seasons.
What you’ll need: A pier pass, basic tackle, and a little patience.
Pro tip: Chat with locals—they often share what’s biting and the best bait to use.
3. Kayak and Paddleboard Fishing: Adventure Meets Angling
Want to combine your love for the water with a dose of adrenaline? Kayak or paddleboard fishing offers a peaceful yet thrilling way to explore the Gulf’s backwaters and shallow bays. In areas like Big Lagoon State Park near Pensacola or the calm waters around Fort Walton Beach, you can quietly sneak up on Speckled Trout, Flounder, and Redfish.
What you’ll need: A fishing kayak or sturdy paddleboard, a life vest, and a dry bag for gear.
Pro tip: Try topwater lures in the early morning hours for exciting strikes close to the surface.
4. Charter Boat Excursions: Go Deep for the Big Ones
If your idea of fun is chasing trophy fish like Mahi Mahi, Amberjack, Snapper, or even Tuna, you’ll want to book a charter out of Perdido Key, Pensacola Beach, or Destin, famously known as “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village.” Many charters offer half-day or full-day options.
What you’ll need: Just yourself! Most charters provide gear, bait, and fishing licenses.
Pro tip: Let the captain know your goals—whether it’s filling a cooler or going after a personal best.
5. Dock and Bay Fishing: Laid-Back and Always Rewarding
Sometimes the best fishing is the simplest kind. Bays, lagoons, and residential docks all offer a calm, easy-going fishing experience where you can unwind while catching Mangrove Snapper, Black Drum, or Catfish. Great spots include Old River in Orange Beach or Santa Rosa Sound near Navarre.
What you’ll need: A spinning rod, live or artificial bait, and a good pair of polarized sunglasses.
Pro tip: Fish around structures like pilings and rocks—many species love to hide there.
Soak Up the Sunshine, One Cast at a Time
Fishing on the Gulf Coast isn’t just about what you catch—it’s about the experience. The warm sun, the salty air, the stories shared over the one that got away… this is beach life at its finest. So grab your gear, head to the coast, and discover why fishing is one of the Gulf’s favorite sunny-day adventures.
Ready to cast off? Whether you’re wading in the surf, paddling out at dawn, or booking the trip of a lifetime—there’s always a line in the water waiting for you.
Live Where the Fishing Trips Never End
Imagine waking up just minutes from the shoreline, pouring a cup of coffee, and walking straight out to your favorite fishing spot—no vacation needed, no countdown to the weekend. That’s the reality of living along the Gulf Coast. With year-round sunshine, stunning coastal views, and endless opportunities for outdoor fun, it’s not just a destination—it’s a lifestyle.
When you make the Gulf Coast your home, you’re never far from a peaceful morning of surf fishing, a spontaneous paddleboard trip, or an impromptu sunset charter. Whether you prefer the laid-back pace of Perdido Key, the vibrant beach life of Pensacola Beach, or the charm of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, there’s a community here that fits your lifestyle—and your fishing style.
At Pointe South, we understand what makes coastal living so special. Many of our agents are lifelong locals or passionate Gulf Coast residents who know every hidden fishing hole, the best neighborhoods to watch the tides roll in, and the homes that offer those rare “steps-to-the-beach” moments. We don’t just sell properties—we help you find a place where your passions and your everyday life intersect.
Looking for a waterfront condo with a private dock? We know where to find it. Dreaming of a beach house with space to store your kayaks and rods? We’ve got you covered. Whether you’re relocating full-time, searching for a second home, or investing in a property where you can escape and cast a line whenever the mood strikes, Pointe South’s experienced real estate team is here to guide you.
From Baldwin County to Walton County and everywhere in between, we make the process of buying or selling along the Gulf Coast seamless and enjoyable. Our knowledge of the local market, paired with our commitment to personalized service, means you’re never just a number. You’re part of our community.
So, if you’ve ever said, “I wish I could live here,” consider this your sign. With Pointe South by your side, the dream of coastal living—and fishing whenever you please—can be your new everyday normal.
Let’s turn your Gulf Coast daydream into a permanent address. Your next cast could start right outside your door.