Escambia Bay

13 Fishing Charters

Top Fishing Charters in Escambia Bay

Fishing in Escambia Bay

Fishing in Escambia Bay is just what the doctor ordered if you’re looking for a relaxing trip. Tucked away between Pensacola and Avalon Beach, the bay is secluded from the wild waves of the Gulf and the waters are calm even when bad weather hits. Choppy waves can’t spoil your adventure here!

If you’re new to fishing, inshore trips are a great choice. This is where you’ll be able to target species like Redfish, Speckled Trout, Flounder, or Sheepshead in the bay. As you head out to the Gulf, you won’t just find more fish to choose from – you’ll also find bigger specimens. This is where you get to target King Mackerel, Amberjack, Cobia, and Grouper.

Fishing in this area wouldn’t be complete without Red Snapper. Tasty, fast, and prestigious, this fish is on every angler’s bucket list. If you’re after Red Snapper, visit during June or July when the season is open.

The best place to start your trip is in Pensacola or across the bay bridge, in Pensacola Beach. Only a few miles away from both Escambia Bay and the Gulf, you’ll be on your fishing spot in no time, whatever trip you decide to take.

Rules & Regulations

If you’re fishing the bay or Gulf with a local charter, a saltwater fishing license will be provided for you. If you decide to visit the Escambia River, you’ll need to purchase a freshwater fishing license for everyone over 16.

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Escambia Bay Fishing Seasons

January

The beginning of the year is a great time to target different types of Groupers nearshore. If you decide to stay in the bay, go after Flounder or Spotted Seatrout.

February

Did someone say Snapper?! February is great if you’re after Vermilion or Mangrove Snapper. Fishing is better in the bay than the Gulf.

March

Stay inshore, especially if you’re a novice, and target Black Drum, Redfish, or Spotted Seatrout. They’re fun to catch and even tastier to eat.

April

With spring, you can expect better chances for nearshore fishing – go after Mackerel or Cobia! Fishing in the bay is as good as ever.

May

As the weather gets warmer, more fish are coming your way. Head out to the Gulf and target Mahi Mahi, Jack Crevalle, or Wahoo.

June

There are a number of species available in June, but the main reason you should be here is Red Snapper. Make sure to book your trip ahead of time, they go very quickly.

July

The Red Snapper season is still on, so hurry up before it closes. If you’re more into big game fishing, you’ll find great offshore trips.

August

August is the peak season for big game fishing. You can go after Marlin, Sailfish, Wahoo, Mahi Mahi, and Tuna any day and, with some luck, catch a trophy!

September

The end of summer still offers great big game fishing, but the nearshore waters hold plenty of table fare like Snapper and Grouper.

October

The main fishing action slowly moves to more shallow water. You can target lots of Snappers and Groupers nearshore, or stay inshore for an easier catch.

November

Groupers rule during November! Whether you’re after Red, Black, or Gag Grouper, you’ll go bottom fishing for these heavy trophies.

December

End the year by fishing the Bay, targeting inshore fish. Redfish, Sheepshead, Black Drum, or Flounder are yours to keep.