Orange Beach Fishing Report September 2024
Welcome back, Gulf Coast Sportsmen, to the September 2024 fishing report for beautiful Orange Beach, AL! It was another outstanding Red Snapper season this summer, but as we transition into fall, Red Snapper season is now closed in Alabama waters. Not to worry—Amberjack and Triggerfish seasons are still open throughout September, and there’s plenty of action in the bays, nearshore, and offshore. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just visiting, this is a great time to book a charter and experience the variety of fish Orange Beach has to offer.
Inshore
September is an excellent time for inshore fishing in Orange Beach, with plenty of activity from Trout, Sheepshead, and Flounder. Speckled Trout are being caught around grass flats using live shrimp on a popping cork or under the dock lights at night. Artificial lures like swim and twitch baits are also proving effective. For the best results, focus on the early morning and late afternoon bites.
Flounder are abundant around grass beds and dock structures. Gulp! Alive soft plastics are a solid choice thanks to their strong scent. For a different kind of flounder experience, try gigging at night—either wading or using a boat equipped with lights—an exciting and productive way to fish.
Sheepshead can be tricky to hook but are worth the effort. These fish are hanging around dock and bridge pilings, taking small shrimp and fiddler crabs. Patience is key when targeting Sheepshead, as their unique teeth make them a challenge to catch.
Nearshore and Offshore
Though Red Snapper is off the table this month, the excitement doesn’t stop. Amberjack and Triggerfish seasons remain open in September, with a bag limit of one fish per person for each species. Triggerfish are still hitting cut squid and cigar minnows on two-hook drop rigs. Expect to reach your limit quickly, so plan to switch targets once you’ve landed your Triggerfish.
Amberjack continue to bite well, especially around reefs and wrecks. Heavy-duty tackle is essential, with 100 lb. leaders giving you the best shot at landing these tough fighters. Live or frozen bait is the way to go when fishing for Amberjack, but be on alert for sharks, which love to swoop in on struggling fish. If sharks become a problem, move to a new location to avoid losing your catch.
Additionally, Vermillion Snapper and Black Snapper can be found near the same reefs where Triggerfish are present, offering great variety for offshore anglers.
Beaches and Piers
Surf and pier fishing continues to be strong this September. With cleaner water conditions and less grass, anglers have easy access to productive fishing zones. Pompano are still around but will start moving out as October approaches. Use Pompano rigs baited with shrimp or sand fleas, and aim to cast between the sandbars. There’s also a good chance of catching Whiting and the occasional Bull Redfish cruising the sandbars.
On the piers, Spanish Mackerel and Hardtails are showing up in greater numbers, providing fast-paced action for anglers looking for a fun fight.
September 2024 offers a great mix of inshore and offshore opportunities in Orange Beach. Whether you prefer casting from the shore, gigging at night, or heading out to the reefs, this month’s fishing action promises to deliver!
