Alabama Saltwater Fishing Report

The Alabama Saltwater Fishing Report is the Gulf Coast's first and only podcast that brings you the REAL fishing report whether it's good, bad, or ugly. Come along with Butch Thierry and Joe Baya as they interview the best fisherman in the area, covering every saltwater species whether you are pier and shore fisherman or you chase pelagics in bluewater. Every episode is packed with the weekly report and forecast as well as pearls of wisdom shared by our expert contributors. All of this comes to you in 60 minutes or less, and is available 24/7, so it's perfect for the ride home or that early morning trip to the dock.

The Everything Bite: Flounder, Reds, Trout, and Swords 05/08/2026

Speckled Trout, Flounder, Redfish, and a Hot Offshore Bite 05/01/2026

Deep Drops, Orange Pompano Rigs, and the Return of Good Scamp Fishing 04/30/2026

Wahoo Fishing Demystified: Where They Are and How to Catch Them 04/23/2026

Pompano on Fire, Surf Bite Steady, and the Coast Heating Up 04/17/2026

Pompano on Fire, Surf Bite Steady, and the Coast Heating Up This episode of the Alabama Saltwater Fishing Report covers the full spring transition across the Alabama coast, from boat fishing the jetties to working the surf and even what’s happening off the water. kicks things off with one of the hottest bites on the coast right now—pompano stacked up around the jetties. He walks through exactly how he’s targeting them from a boat, from dialing in tide direction and current seams to using smaller live shrimp on Carolina rigs to match their bite. It’s a really practical breakdown of how to fish moving schools, how to adjust between incoming and outgoing tides, and why this might be one of the best pompano runs he’s seen in years. He also touches on flounder showing up as quality bycatch and trout starting to stage up in the grass, giving a pretty complete picture of what’s happening in the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach zone. Then the perspective shifts to the beach with , who gives a boots-on-the-sand report from Fort Morgan. The surf bite has been steady, with whiting leading the charge and a mix of trout, flounder, and even Spanish mackerel mixed in. What stands out here is how simple the approach is—basic bottom rigs tipped with shrimp and Fishbites, fishing the trough for numbers and reaching past the sandbar for bigger fish. It’s a good reminder that you don’t need anything complicated to have a really productive day from the beach right now. The episode wraps with Jim Cox, who talks through the upcoming and what it says about the Gulf Coast boating scene right now. From hybrid boats that can run offshore to sandbar-friendly setups, the conversation highlights just how versatile the fishery—and the lifestyle—has become, and why this region continues to grow as a boating and fishing destination. Taken together, it’s a snapshot of a coast that’s heating up in a big way. Whether you’re fishing jetties, soaking baits in the surf, or just thinking about getting on the water, there’s a lot happening—and it’s only getting better. SPONSORS /episode/index/show/alabamasaltwaterfishingreport/id/40905745

From Rivers to the Sound: Cracking the Spring Pattern on the Gulf Coast 04/16/2026

Trout, Reds, and Flounder Are Heating Up—If You Can Fish the Wind 04/10/2026

Spring Patterns and a Surprise Snook: What’s Happening on the Alabama Coast 04/02/2026

Spring Patterns and a Surprise Snook: What’s Happening on the Alabama Coast Spring is starting to take hold along the Alabama Gulf Coast, and this week’s report shows a fishery that’s waking up but still shifting day to day. reports that the sheepshead bite is tapering after a strong run, with noticeable pressure on larger fish. At the same time, speckled trout are beginning their spring transition out of the rivers and onto the flats, but they’re moving with the bait and changing preferences throughout the day. Matching profile and presentation has been more important than color, and staying mobile has been the difference between slow days and steady action. Off Dauphin Island, is still putting together solid mixed bags by combining sheepshead limits with offshore runs for triggerfish and vermilion snapper. The bite has been consistent when conditions allow, though wind is starting to limit opportunities. His approach has been to avoid high-pressure structure, dial in depth carefully, and maximize efficiency with rigs that keep bait in the strike zone longer. From the beach and pier, reports that pompano season is underway with strong early tournament weights, but conditions are a factor. Algae has been a constant challenge in the surf, and timing has mattered, with morning bites producing the best results. East-end beaches and Perdido Pass have been leading the way, with fish holding close in the troughs and even in the wash. The episode closes with a local listener story that highlights just how much the fishery is changing. A rare snook catch along the Alabama coast underscores what more anglers have been noticing in recent years. Fish that were once considered outliers are starting to show up more often, adding another layer of intrigue to an already dynamic system. Across the board, the common thread is adjustment. Fish are feeding, but they’re not locked into a single pattern yet. Anglers who are willing to move, experiment, and pay attention to bait, depth, and conditions are finding success, while those staying static are getting left behind. SPONSORS /episode/index/show/alabamasaltwaterfishingreport/id/40718285

From Dauphin Island Sheepshead to Backwater Stripers: This Week’s Report 03/26/2026

How the Spring Transition Is Setting Up Across the Alabama Gulf Coast 03/20/2026

Spring Transition: Trout Moving, Sheepshead Spawning, and Redfish After Dark 03/13/2026

Spring Transition: Trout Moving, Sheepshead Spawning, and Redfish After Dark Spring is starting to show up along the Alabama Gulf Coast, and with it comes some of the most exciting seasonal fishing patterns of the year. In this week’s Alabama Saltwater Fishing Report, host Butch Thierry checks in with guides and anglers across the region to break down what’s happening on the water right now. Captain Bobby Abruscato of A-Team Fishing reports that speckled trout are beginning their seasonal transition out of the rivers as water temperatures climb into the low 60s. While many fish are staging near the mouths of tidal rivers, some of the biggest trout are still holding farther up the system on shallow flats and channel edges. Over on the beach and pier scene, Sean Lawless of The Lawless Tide shares a strong sheepshead report from Gulf State Park Pier, where anglers are catching fish from shallow sections all the way to the end of the pier. Ghost shrimp on small jigheads have been especially effective, often outperforming traditional baits like fiddler crabs and live shrimp. Captain Ben Knight with Great Southern Fishing Charters adds that the sheepshead spawn is firing up around passes, bridges, and jetties along the coast, with big fish staging on nearshore structure. He also discusses nighttime redfish opportunities around dock lights and bridges, along with a few important reminders about fishing etiquette and responsible harvest during these seasonal congregations. If you’re planning a trip to the Alabama coast this week, this episode will help you understand where the fish are moving, what they’re eating, and how to take advantage of one of the most dynamic fishing periods of the year. SPONSORS CCA Alabama AL DCNR Dixie Supply and Baker Metalworks Killerdock Foster Contracting Gulf Coast Shows Black Buffalo Slipski Coastal Connection Fiber Plastic Hilton's Realtime Nativator McCoy Outdoor Co. Ricciardone Dentistry Coastal Brew Baits /episode/index/show/alabamasaltwaterfishingreport/id/40420800

I Was Thrown From My Boat at 40 MPH 03/05/2026

Late Winter, Early Spring: Adapting to a Fishery in Transition 02/25/2026

Late Winter, Early Spring: Adapting to a Fishery in Transition This week’s Alabama Saltwater Fishing Report covers a fishery that’s in full transition mode. After wild swings in weather, from 80-degree afternoons to freezing mornings, Captain Patric Garmeson reports that the fishing has actually been better than you’d expect for late February. On warming trends, fish are sliding shallow and acting more like it’s spring already, with redfish, trout, flounder, drum, and sheepshead all showing up in the mix. When conditions turn windy and cold, the rivers and protected water are still producing, especially around docks, rocks, and pilings. One of the biggest takeaways from the conversation is the importance of being reactionary. The fish are simply responding to water temperature, clarity, and pressure, so anglers need to do the same. Patric shares a tactic he picked up from the Lower Chesapeake Bay report that’s made a real difference locally: downsizing tackle. By switching to lighter braid, lighter leaders, and small jig heads paired with subtle plastics like the Slick Junior and Little Slick, he’s been able to get more bites in clear, pressured water. When trout are suspended in deeper systems like canals and the Mobile River, a slow-sinking presentation—whether it’s a free-lined shrimp or a lightly weighted artificial—has been key. Bait-wise, live shrimp are still effective, but fresh dead shrimp have been surprisingly productive, especially for redfish, drum, and flounder. With flounder showing up consistently across multiple systems since January, there’s growing optimism about what the spring flounder bite might look like. As sheepshead season ramps up, the conversation shifts toward conservation. Patric emphasizes the value of releasing fish over 20 inches, not just during the spawn but year-round. Those larger fish represent significantly greater egg production and long-term genetic strength in the fishery. The “Release Over 20” mindset isn’t about shaming anyone; it’s about keeping a strong population for the future while still enjoying a fish fry with mid-sized fish. Offshore, Tom Hilton breaks down what to look for when targeting wahoo and tuna. Ideal wahoo water ranges from the upper 60s to mid-70s, with clean blue water, defined temperature breaks, structure, and current all stacking together. Areas near the Destin fads, the Oriskany, and along the shelf edge show promising conditions when those factors overlap. Tuna, as always, remain harder to pin down, but temperature, bait presence, and current remain central to the search. The episode wraps with a reminder about the upcoming Mobile Boat Show and opportunities to get involved in fish tagging through CCA Alabama. A cool tagging story highlights just how much growth and movement can happen over 500 days in the life of a redfish, reinforcing how valuable long-term data can be. Overall, this report is about adaptability. Whether you’re inshore chasing trout and sheepshead or offshore hunting wahoo, the anglers who pay attention to environmental shifts and adjust accordingly are the ones finding success right now. SPONSORS /episode/index/show/alabamasaltwaterfishingreport/id/40229655

Depth Over Structure Around Dauphin Island 02/20/2026

Depth Over Structure Around Dauphin Island This week on the Alabama Saltwater Fishing Report, Butch Thierry kicks things off with Clifton Davis, who shares how a low-tide adjustment turned into a productive inshore bite. Instead of sticking tight to the bank for redfish, Clifton freelined live shrimp in a dead-end canal with a gradual drop into deeper water and found speckled trout popping on top, leading to a strong trout box along with quality white trout and slot reds. He also explains how lighter weights, smaller hooks, and even letting mangrove snapper run with the bait before engaging the reel helped increase keeper ratios around pilings and structure. Midway through the show, co-host Joe Baya joins Butch to talk with Jim Cox about the upcoming Emerald Coast Boat and Lifestyle Show. Jim breaks down what makes the Panama City event unique, how it differs from the Wharf show in Orange Beach, and why having hundreds of boats in one place—sometimes even in the water for sea trials—can completely change the buying process. They discuss early-spring boat show incentives, the wide range of boats on display from bay boats and center consoles to pontoons, and why getting your whole family physically on a boat matters more than anything you’ll read in a brochure. The episode wraps up with Captain Tanner Deas, who talks through the grind of late-winter fishing around Dauphin Island. After high winds dirtied up the surf and slowed the whiting bite, Tanner shifted to the sound side, covering ground and keying in on fish holding in five to six feet of water around seawalls and wood structure. He explains why depth has been more important than structure alone lately, how downsizing to a small, stout hook has improved hook-up ratios on sheepshead and drum, and why a little chop on the water can make all the difference when slick conditions shut everything down. SPONSORS /episode/index/show/alabamasaltwaterfishingreport/id/40176930

Winter Weirdness: Small Baits, Big Reds, and Scattered Trout 02/13/2026

Winter Curveballs on the Gulf Coast: Tuna Runs, Bull Reds, and the Trout That Won’t Commit 02/06/2026

Winter Curveballs on the Gulf Coast: Tuna Runs, Bull Reds, and the Trout That Won’t Commit In this episode of the Alabama Saltwater Fishing Report, host Butch Thierry delivers a wide-ranging look at winter fishing conditions along the northern Gulf Coast, touching on everything from offshore tuna runs to inshore redfish, sheepshead, and the ongoing struggle to pattern speckled trout. The show opens with a candid offshore report from , who details a long run on the Blackjack in pursuit of yellowfin tuna that turned into a battle with heavy boat pressure and overwhelming numbers of sharks. Although tuna were clearly present and feeding early, Collier explains how timing, crowding, and shark activity made landing a fish nearly impossible, forcing a pivot to bottom fishing on natural structure. That plan B paid off with lane snapper, porgies, and tilefish, along with a useful breakdown of how to identify productive bottom using electronics, zoom settings, and life marks before ever dropping bait. The conversation shifts inshore as Collier shares a bright spot in an otherwise tough winter, describing memorable sight-fishing trips for bull redfish and black drum along shallow flats and barrier island shorelines. Using clear water, sunshine, and elevation from kayaks, towers, or even drones, he explains how spotting dark shapes and schools is often more important than worrying about tide or temperature. He also breaks down finesse presentations with buoyant soft plastics that can be dead-sticked in shallow water, triggering bites even when anglers aren’t actively working the lure. At the same time, he doesn’t sugarcoat the current speckled trout bite, describing a frustrating pattern of short strikes, slaps, and non-committal fish that seem more reactive than hungry, often forcing anglers to rely on jerkbaits and treble-hook lures to convert bites. Later in the episode, checks in with a detailed sheepshead report, focusing on how persistent wind, low tides, and dirty water have pushed anglers to adapt. Giles explains why clean water remains the key ingredient, even if it means fishing outside the Delta or tucking in tight to protected structure near shore. He walks through subtle but important rigging adjustments, like switching from heavy jig heads to split shots and mosquito hooks to reduce hang-ups on oyster bottoms and submerged timber, while still keeping baits in the strike zone. The discussion highlights how current movement, even more than temperature, drives sheepshead feeding behavior, and why anglers should be willing to move frequently rather than grind unproductive spots. The episode wraps with offering a deep dive into how he’s leaning on electronics to stay effective during one of the most confusing trout seasons in recent memory. Trailer explains how side scan and down imaging help him locate bait, structure, and tightly packed “football-shaped” fish marks before making a cast, especially when trout slide into deeper channels during prolonged cold snaps. He breaks down jig weights, fall rates, and bottom-oriented presentations that keep lures in front of lethargic fish, along with how he transitions from trout to redfish and sheepshead around docks, cut banks, and barnacle-covered pilings when trout refuse to cooperate. Altogether, the episode delivers an honest, boots-on-the-deck snapshot of winter fishing on the Gulf Coast, emphasizing adaptability, observation, and having a solid plan B when conditions or fish refuse to play along. SPONSORS /episode/index/show/alabamasaltwaterfishingreport/id/40020200

Winter Classic Lessons: Adapting to Wind, Water Swings, and Tough Trout 01/29/2026

Winter Classic Lessons: Adapting to Wind, Water Swings, and Tough Trout In this episode of the Alabama Saltwater Fishing Report, host Butch Thierry is joined in the studio by and welcomes and for a deep dive into the recent Winter Classic tournament and the challenging winter conditions along Alabama’s coast. The conversation centers on how rapidly changing weather, strong winds, and dramatic water level swings reshaped fish positioning from one day to the next, forcing anglers to constantly adapt their game plans. Much of the discussion focuses on how trout and redfish behaved during the event, why bites were often subtle or resulted in short strikes, and how pressure and unstable conditions made even well-scouted areas difficult to fish consistently. The group breaks down practical lessons learned on the water, including the importance of slowing presentations, adjusting cadence, and experimenting with lure profiles when fish refuse to fully commit. They compare notes on what worked across different parts of the system, from deeper 10–12 foot holding areas to shallow structure affected by wind-driven current. Lure selection, color confidence, and profile changes all come into play, with anglers explaining how they rotated baits to trigger reaction strikes while avoiding overworking schools during scouting and tournament hours. A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to tournament strategy, including managing five-fish bags, knowing when to stay put versus when to move, and how the Winter Classic’s staggered flight system added an extra layer of planning to each day. The anglers also share hard-earned insights on electronics use, reading bait behavior, and recognizing when fish are present but simply not feeding. The show wraps with a detailed discussion on fish care and livewell management, highlighting how proper salinity, aeration, and additives can make the difference between losing fish and earning valuable live-fish bonuses. Overall, the episode delivers a candid, experience-driven look at winter tournament fishing and offers plenty of actionable takeaways for anglers dealing with cold fronts, high winds, and finicky coastal fish. SPONSORS /episode/index/show/alabamasaltwaterfishingreport/id/39929050

Winter Tactics, Trophy Fish & Fly Fishing Deep Dive 01/22/2026

Sheepshead & Speckled Trout, Tournament Tips & Scamp Closure 01/15/2026

Winter Speckled Trout & Redfish Tactics with Captains Bobby Abruscato and Patric Garmeson 01/08/2026

Cold Water Tactics: Science and Strategy for Winter Inshore Fishing 12/24/2025

Christmas Special Top Fishing Gifts & Gear Guide 2025 12/22/2025

Cold Snaps, Hot Bites: Winter Inshore Fishing Across Alabama 12/19/2025

Cold Snaps, Hot Bites: Winter Inshore Fishing Across Alabama This week on the Alabama Saltwater Fishing Report, steps in as host to break down a strong inshore and onshore bite across the Mobile-Tensaw Delta and Alabama’s beaches. With offshore opportunities limited by weather, the focus turns to what’s been some of the most consistent winter fishing anglers have seen in years. We start in the Delta with , who says this season is shaping up to be one of the best he can remember. After a recent cold snap, speckled trout have piled into deeper river bends and channels, creating incredible numbers and quality fish for anglers willing to slow down and fish methodically. Richard explains how drifting with the current and reading a traditional bottom machine has been the key to finding fish, even without obvious surface activity or diving birds. Quarter- to three-eighth-ounce jig heads, paired with Slick Juniors and Down South Lures Supermodels, have been producing nonstop action, with presentation mattering far more than color. Richard also breaks down how recent freshwater runoff has affected the system, explaining why local rain impacts tidal rivers differently than upstate rainfall feeding the Delta. With saltier water holding deep and freshwater skimming the surface, the Delta has remained remarkably stable. As temperatures warm, he expects trout and redfish to slide back onto nearby flats and points, opening the door for shallower patterns—and even some surprising winter topwater opportunities. Next, we head to the beaches and backwaters with . Tony reports a much-improved December compared to last year, with whiting, redfish, and even the occasional flounder showing up along sandbars, points, and nearshore structure. He emphasizes mobility this time of year, often covering miles of beach to find productive water. While he prefers artificials, Tony explains why bait has been the best tool for client trips lately, with single-drop rattle rigs producing steady action right up close to the beach. in Gulf Shores, Alabama gives us a great saltwater fly fishing segment. Sam has been dialing in the Speckled Trout on the fly. Pompano has been a welcome "bycatch" while targeting trout. Listen in for tips and techniques to catch these fins on the fly! The Alabama Saltwater Fishing Report is brought to you by Great Days Outdoors. Please subscribe, rate, and review wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to text ALSFR to (779) 345-2918 to join our email list and receive a promo code for a free AFTCO sun protection mask with any purchase. SPONSORS /episode/index/show/alabamasaltwaterfishingreport/id/39465980

Inshore Tournament Tactics, Speckled Trout Strategies, and Coastal Conservation 12/12/2025

Winter Wahoo, Sheepshead Tactics, CCA Auction & Pro Charter Guides 12/04/2025

Speckled Trout, Redfish, Tuna & Expert Fly Fishing Tips 11/28/2025

Gulf Coast Inshore & Offshore Action, Barrier Island Wade Fishing, Coastal Real Estate Trends 11/20/2025

Fall Fishing Tips for Speckled Trout, Redfish & Surf Species | Gulf Coast Tactics 11/14/2025

Speckled Trout, Redfish & Gulf Tuna Action 11/07/2025

Flounder, Redfish, Trout & Gulf Coast Action 10/31/2025

Alabama Saltwater Fishing Report

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