Capt. Don McPherson
September was an unusually hot, muggy month,. The hot weather did not stop the fish from biting off Orange and Gulf Shores, Alabama. The tropical storm pushed some pretty blue water our way and we are now catching some mahi mahi, wahoo, tuna, white marlin and blue marlin. The mahi mahi and white marlin bite has been good around the nipple area southeast of Perdido Pass. The yellowfin tuna bite has been tough with a few still being caught. The blackfin tuna have been biting jigs at some of the rigs. October should be a better month as the water temps fall a bit. Deep drop fishing for yellowedge and snowy grouper has been good. Golden tilefish have also been caught in 600 to 900 feet of water. There are more and more anglers trying their luck at day time and night time sword fishing. There have been some really nice ones caught.
As far as bottom fishing goes, the vermillion snapper bite has been excellent. These tasty fish are being caught in 90 to 300 feet of water. Scamp grouper are being caught beyond 180 feet of water with an occasional red grouper and gag grouper. This fishing will probably improve into October and November. Seems like the amberjack bite has just been really tough for most everyone. A few anglers are having good luck. Location, location, location. The fall triggerfish are biting but unfortunately they have to be released.
A few king mackerel have appeared within 7 miles. Spanish mackerel are also being caught on small spoons and mackerel trees. These fish are fun to catch especially if you just want to be on the water a few hours. We will hopefully see some larger kings appear in October.
Capt. Don McPherson
251-752-0235
Getaway Charters
www.getawaycharters.com