Pensacola Fishing Report for July 2024*
July has been a busy month for fishermen in Pensacola, Florida. From the vast inshore waters to the offshore depths, there have been plenty of opportunities to land a variety of catches. Here’s your comprehensive fishing report to help you navigate the waters and maximize your fishing success this month.
Inshore
The inshore fishing scene in Pensacola is almost always good as long as you can dodge the summertime boat traffic and afternoon thunderstorms. Redfish and speckled trout have been the stars of the show, particularly around the grass flats and estuaries. If you’re planning on fishing in the morning, make it early. For those of you that would rather fish later in the day, consider a dock lights trip targeting speckled trout with live shrimp and topwater lures. These dock light trips are the best way to avoid the heat. Additionally, flounder have been active around sandy bottoms and near docks, with live minnows and soft plastic baits being the top choices. Stick to the northern side of the bays for the best flounder results.
Nearshore
Nearshore fishing, starting mid-month is expected to provide plenty of action, especially for those targeting king mackerel and Spanish mackerel. The king mackerel bite has been most consistent during the early hours of the day, with live bait and trolling spoons being the preferred methods. Spanish mackerel have been abundant as well, with flashy lures and small spoons yielding great results. Obviously, the Spanish are most prevalent closer to shore. Look for these fish around the Pensacola Pass and nearshore reefs. Cobia sightings have been reported sporadically, so keep a lookout around buoys and nearshore structures. Along the beaches on the gulf side lots (a freaking ton) of sharks have been spotted within 100 yards of the beach. Lots of anglers report success sight fishing for these this year.
Offshore
Offshore fishing has been the highlight for Pensacola anglers this month. With red snapper season in full swing and moving quickly towards the end of the season, it’s the deeper waters where the big ones are hiding out. With this being the case, be prepared for a bit longer ride to the 150 – 200-foot-deep reefs. This is not an entirely bad thing because the king mackerel, barracuda and wahoo can be caught trolling on the way out. In fact, if I were to be booking an offshore trip this time of year, it’s a trolling trip out of Pensacola that would be towards the top of my list. These trolling trips are great in the late summer months. Additionally, reef fishing for amberjack and grouper has been a thrilling challenge for those willing to venture further offshore. Mahi-mahi have also made appearances around floating debris and weed lines, so keep your eyes peeled for these colorful fighters.
Piers and Beaches
For those fishing from the shore, the piers and beaches of Pensacola have been offering their own set of rewards. The surf has been producing pompano, whiting, and the occasional redfish, with sand fleas and shrimp being the baits of choice. Pensacola Beach and the Fort Pickens area have been hotspots for surf fishing. On the piers, Spanish mackerel and bluefish have been active, especially during the early mornings. Gotcha lures and small jigs have been particularly effective in attracting these fast-moving fish. Additionally, keep an eye out for schools of baitfish, as they often attract larger predators. If you’re looking for a bit of a challenge, try a nighttime shark fishing trip. This year has seen lots of big sharks very close to shore. If you get a chance to fish any of the passes in the area don’t be surprised if you land a Jack Cravell.
Tips for Success
- Monitor the Weather: July weather can be unpredictable, so always check the forecast before heading out. Early mornings and late afternoons are typically the best times for calm conditions and active fish.
- Use Live Bait: Whether you’re fishing inshore, nearshore, or offshore, live bait often yields the best results. Consider using a cast net to gather bait or purchase it from a local bait shop.
- Be Ready to Move: If the fish aren’t biting in one spot, don’t hesitate to try another. Covering more water increases your chances of finding active fish.
- Work the Tides: Pay attention to tide charts. Moving water often triggers feeding activity, so plan your trips around incoming or outgoing tides.
We hope this report helps you plan your fishing adventures in Pensacola. As always, Intercoastal Safaris is here to provide guided trips and expert advice to make your fishing experience unforgettable. Tight lines, and happy fishing!
