Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama Fishing Report for May 2025
Welcome back, Gulf Coast Sportsman!
May is here, and with it comes a mixed bag of weather — but that hasn’t slowed down the action in Orange Beach or Gulf Shores, Alabama. Whether you’re looking to fish inshore structures, troll offshore, drop bait on deep reefs, or test your luck at the oil rigs, there’s no shortage of opportunities this month. From surf to structure, May 2025 delivers tight lines and memorable catches.
Inshore Bite
Inshore fishing remains a solid choice around docks, bridges, and protected bay waters. Anglers are still seeing success targeting Redfish, Speckled Trout, and the occasional Flounder, especially when using live shrimp or reliable artificial lures like twitch baits, topwaters, and golden spoons.
Although Sheepshead season has wrapped up, the inshore game is heating up as Trout and Bull Reds begin transitioning out to grass flats and ledge drop-offs near the islands throughout the bays and the intracoastal waterway. Focus your efforts right on the edges of those drop-offs, and consider booking a knowledgeable local guide to help put you on Gator Trout and Bull Reds.
Nearshore & Offshore Report
The spotlight offshore remains on the Mackerel bite. Spanish Mackerel have shown up in good numbers, and King Mackerel are just about to hit their stride. Anglers are finding success trolling with Yo-Zuri hard baits nearshore and offshore, with extra action around the oil rigs scattered across the Gulf.
There’s still a chance to spot Cobia, especially around Perdido Key, where numbers have been better. If you’re looking for them, scan for grass mats, sea turtles, and floating debris. Bonus: Cobia can also show up while you’re bottom fishing.
Bottom fishing itself is a strong option this month with Black Snapper, Vermilion Snapper (Mingo), Grouper, and Triggerfish all in the mix. There have even been occasional Sailfish sightings closer to shore and around the rigs.
While Red Snapper season officially opens in the coming weeks, all eyes are currently on Amberjack, and the bite has been excellent. If you’re chasing big pulls, now’s the time to get out and enjoy it.
Beaches & Piers
The surf and piers around Orange Beach are alive with action. Pompano, Whiting, and Redfish are all active along the beach, especially during the early morning and evening runs. While Pompano showed up later this year, they’re still expected to hang around through mid-May.
Use pompano rigs tipped with Fish Gum, live sand fleas, or shrimp, and focus your casts between the sandbars to target the larger Redfish cruising the deeper cuts.
On the piers, anglers are still catching Spanish Mackerel, Hardtails, Whiting, and Ladyfish. And for the thrill-seekers, shark fishing is in full swing in the evenings and at night, both from the surf and piers.
If sharks are your goal, come prepared: bring heavy tackle and cut bonita for bait. Bonita can be caught offshore or purchased frozen at most local bait and tackle shops.
Plan Ahead
With warm weather, active fish, and summer coming soon, now is the perfect time to start booking your summer fishing adventures. Availability won’t last long, so don’t wait, give us a call at 850-375-2223 — Orange Beach is calling.
