Fishing at Perdido Pass in April, Orange Beach, Alabama
"Have you ever felt the thrill of reeling in a big catch while standing on a picturesque beach with the sound of crashing waves in the background? If not, then you're missing out on one of the most popular fishing spots in the Gulf Coast - Perdido Pass in Orange Beach, Alabama. With crystal clear waters and a diverse range of fish, this hidden gem attracts anglers from all over the country. But what makes this spot truly special? In this article, we'll dive into the exciting world of fishing at Perdido Pass and discover why it's a must-visit for any avid fisherman. From the best time to visit to the types of fish you can expect to catch, get ready to learn everything you need to know for a successful and unforgettable fishing trip."
Perdido Pass in Orange Beach, Alabama, offers a variety of fishing opportunities, especially during the month of April. While the west jetty may not always have favorable conditions, the east jetty and beach can provide a different story. Early morning incoming tides with east-southeast winds set up well on "the spit" inside the east side of the pass.
For those looking to target Spanish and bluefish, bring along spoons, jigs, Gotcha lures, or small diving plugs. After the action fades, bottom fishing with live shrimp can yield redfish, flounder, and pompano on the flats to the west. Bouncing jigs off the bottom along the sandy drop-offs around the deep hole is also a successful technique for targeting pompano, flounder, redfish, and bluefish.
It's important to note that high winds from the southeast can lead to large waves, making fishing on the jetties challenging and dangerous. However, the other side might offer better opportunities. Mangroves, sheepshead, black grouper, porgy, specks, pompano, Spanish mackerel, and more can be caught along the sandy stretch if you're willing to make the walk.
The sea wall may seem appealing, but keep in mind that you may battle pinfish throughout the day. Still, you might be rewarded with a flounder or a Spanish mackerel. Fishing close to the wall for mangroves under the bridge can also yield some nice catches, although competition for space may arise.
On the Florida side, though there is a long walk, a board path makes it cart-friendly. Setting up on the FL side of the tiny jetty can be productive, with blues and reds being more prevalent in this area. There is typically less competition for space, allowing for more room to fish or explore the beach with spoons at sunrise.
Spanish Mackerel
When it comes to catching Spanish Mackerel, fresh fried is hard to beat. Bleeding them out and quickly icing them down is essential for maintaining quality and taste. Some anglers use a mixture of ice, seawater, and a little salt as a super cold brine. Freezing Spanish mackerel after skinning, filleting, and removing red meat is also an option.
For targeting pompano, fish bites and sand fleas are popular baits, while white swimbaits or soft plastic jigs with eyes on a jig head can be effective in the surf. Fishing on an incoming or outgoing tide is generally advised.
Neap Tides
Neap tides are often misunderstood but can offer great shrimp-catching days or excellent fishing opportunities. While the catching may be trickier during this tide phase, being patient and observant of changing conditions can lead to success.
If you're looking to target flounder at Perdido Pass, using bull minnows is recommended. Alternatively, using a predator-to-prey jig with a bull minnow can entice bites from mangrove snapper as well.
Fishing at Perdido Pass is an experience like no other. From the stunning views to the abundance of fish, it is a destination that should not be missed by any angler. As we've explored in this article, there are several key tips and tricks that can help make your fishing trip a success, from using the right bait to understanding the tides. So next time you find yourself in Orange Beach, Alabama, be sure to pack your fishing gear and head to Perdido Pass for a day of adventure on the water.
As the saying goes, "Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime."
Before we wrap up, here's a quote to leave you with: "Fishing is much more than fish. It is the great occasion when we may return to the fine simplicity of our forefathers." - Herbert Hoover.
Remember to check local regulations and licenses before heading out, and always prioritize safety when fishing on the jetties or in challenging conditions. Enjoy your fishing adventure at Perdido Pass!
(Note: The information provided in this blog post is based on the provided text and may not reflect the most current fishing conditions at Perdido Pass. It is always advisable to check with local resources or experienced anglers for up-to-date information.)
Posted by Meredith Amon on
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