Pier Fishing in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach

Fort Morgan Fishing Pier

silhouette of an angler pier fishing at sunset in Gulf Shores

When the Gulf is too rough for beach fishing, anglers head to Fort Morgan Pier for some fun pier fishing. It's a go-to spot for anglers seeking calmer waters and various inshore species.

Hand holding a white trout caught inshore fishing in the Gulf

Common Fish Species at Fort Morgan Fishing Pier

Don't be surprised if you reel in plenty of white trout, ground mullet, and other inshore species. While the old Fort Morgan Pier was known for its great flounder fishing, today anglers can enjoy a wider variety of catches at the mouth of Mobile Bay, including red drum (redfish), speckled trout, and flounder.

Basket of trout and flounder caught while inshore fishing in Orange Beach

Seasonal Flounder Migration

The Fort Morgan Pier sits along the flounder migration path, where shallow water and sandy bottoms create ideal conditions. Flounder migrate through that area to go out into the Gulf in the fall, typically appearing anytime from October through December.

The Alabama Marine Resources Division's new regulations close flounder season, both commercially and recreationally, through November to protect the fish on their way to spawn.

Gulf State Park Pier

Sightseers and anglers along the Gulf State Park Fishing Pier in Gulf Shores

The Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier in Gulf Shores is another fantastic spot for pier fishing. The pier is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with covered seating areas, comfort stations at the midpoint, and wheelchair-accessible rail fishing. Informational signs along the pier highlight native fish, birds, and other wildlife, adding an educational touch to your visit.

woman holding a large redfish caught while inshore fishing in gulf shores

Popular Catches at Gulf Shores Fishing Pier

Anglers can catch a variety of species here throughout the year, such as sheepshead, redfish, Spanish mackerel, flounder, and whiting. No matter the season, there's always a chance to reel in something worth bragging about.

People walking down the Gulf State Park Fishing pier in Gulf Shores

Pier Fishing Day Pass

A valid Alabama saltwater fishing license and a pier permit are required to fish the pier. Fishing permits at the Gulf State Park Pier cost $10 per adult daily, or $7 for veterans and campground/lodge guests—children 11 and under fish for free. The daily parking fee of $10 per vehicle includes one daily pier fishing permit for the driver. Weekly, monthly, semi-annual, and annual permits are also available for those planning an extended stay.

Fishing carts along the Gulf State Park Fishing Pier in Gulf Shores

On-Site Bait, Tackle, and Gear Rentals

The pier has a bait and tackle shop with rod and reel rentals, so you can get all the gear you need for a day of fishing. Large aluminum fishing carts are also available for rent, making it easy to haul your gear along the pier. With everything available on-site, you can arrive empty-handed and still enjoy a full day of pier fishing.

people attending Gulf State Park Pier Angler Academy

Learn at Angler Academy

For those new to saltwater fishing, the pier's Angler Academy offers a fun, hands-on introduction to the sport. This beginner-friendly program covers the basics of equipment, bait, and Gulf fishing regulations, making it a fantastic activity for families and kids eager to learn.

Orange Beach Fishing Pier

Fishing pier on Wolf Bay at scenic Waterfront Park in Orange Beach

The Orange Beach Waterfront Park public pier offers visitors 400 feet of space to cast off from. Covered pavilions and seating offer sightseers and anglers a comfortable experience while looking out over Wolf Bay. Parking is free, and bathrooms are located just near the pier's entrance. The pier is lighted and open 24/7, making it a great, quiet spot for night fishing.

Common Fish Species at Waterfront Park Pier

The pier features 24 disk reefs surrounding it and lighting underneath the end to help attract fish. The combination of the deepened water and reefs brings in white trout, flounder, and redfish. Anglers can typically fill an ice chest with white trout during warm nights thanks to the bottom structures. While targeting these species, you're likely to encounter hardhead and gaff-topsail catfish as well. Hardheads are usually only kept for bait, but gaff-top catfish are delicious when fried.

Sunset over Wolf Bay at Orange Beach Waterfront Park

Family Friendly Pier Fishing

The location of the Waterfront Park Pier makes it an ideal spot for fishing with the family. The shallow waters, easy parking, and nearby playground allow for a seamless outing. The pier and park are also dog-friendly, so you can bring your furry friends along.

Plan Your Fishing Trip to Alabama's Beaches

Fishing rods laying on a pier in Gulf Shores

With year-round pier fishing, scenic views, and plenty of fish species, Alabama's Beaches are a must-visit for anglers. Stay a few days or a few weeks and enjoy easy access to our fishing piers, welcoming communities, and plenty of things to do between casts. If you want to try something different, you can also book a local fishing charter and head out on the Gulf for a day you won't forget.

Pier Fishing FAQs

What is the best bait for pier fishing in Alabama's Beaches?

For targeting most inshore species, live bait such as shrimp, fiddler crabs, sand fleas, and bull minnows is recommended when pier fishing.

Do you need a fishing license to fish off a pier in Alabama?

Yes. An Alabama Saltwater Fishing License is required to fish at the Fort Morgan, Gulf State Park, and Orange Beach Waterfront Park pier. You can purchase a license online at Outdoor Alabama.

What is the best time for pier fishing?

The public fishing piers on Alabama's Beaches are open year-round. Summer is a popular time to pier fish for larger species like Spanish mackerel, cobia, and tripletail; however, fall is an excellent time to target migratory species.

What fish can I catch while fishing off the piers in Alabama's Beaches?

When pier fishing on Alabama's Beaches, you can expect to find inshore species like redfish, white trout, speckled trout, catfish, and flounder. Other common fish include sheepshead, whiting, and Spanish mackerel.