Fishing in Pensacola, Florida

Pensacola is known for its white sand beaches, but the city also has plenty of other activities to enjoy. The fishing in Pensacola is world-class, with both inshore and offshore options.

Inshore Fishing

The shallows around Pensacola are home to a variety of species including Redfish, Spotted Seatrout, and Flounder. These species are plentiful and a great introduction to saltwater fishing. You can catch them on any type of bait, and they’re tasty to eat too.

Pier Fishing

The pier at Pensacola Beach is over 1,500 feet long and provides a fun experience without needing to step aboard a boat. You’ll find a variety of species here, including Sheepshead, Flounder, Drum, and King Mackerel. You can even reel in Sailfish if you’re lucky!

During the summer months, the fishing is especially good for Red Snapper. These fish love to hang out on the rocky reefs and are easy to hook with a live bait or soft plastic.

In the fall, the fishing is still a bit slow but there’s always a chance to hook a big Spanish mackerel with a live shrimp on a Carolina rig. The trout and redfish bite is a bit tougher but you can catch them with suspending jerk-baits or plastics.

Gulf Intracoastal Waterway

The Gulf Intracoastal Waterway is a 3000-mile inland water route that runs from the Pensacola Bay area to Santa Rosa Sound. This strip of seawater is a popular location for charters and anglers alike because it allows them to get their bait and lures right up close to the fish.

There are a number of piers in Pensacola, but the one at Pensacola Beach is the most popular for anglers. It’s located right along the beach and offers plenty of parking to make it convenient for both land and water lovers.

A few things to keep in mind are that it can be quite busy during the summer and winter, so you may need to plan accordingly if you want to avoid the crowds. In addition, you’ll need a Florida fishing license.

On a Boat

If you’re looking for some serious action, head out on a charter to catch your limit of fish. This is the ultimate way to spend a day and has the added bonus of a professional guide who can help you hook your dream catch.

You’ll have a much more solid chance of catching that trophy bass or bluefish when you fish from a boat. Plus, you’ll be able to try some more advanced techniques that don’t work from shore.

The Gulf Intracoastal Waterway makes it possible for boats to get into the deep waters of Pensacola and explore its famous bottom and big game fisheries. On a charter, you’ll have a seasoned guide and quality gear to give you the edge.

The fishing in Pensacola is world-class, and it’s all thanks to the incredible marine ecosystem that surrounds us. The water here is clean, clear, and teeming with life. The locals are proud of their marine environment, and they’re constantly working to preserve it. The city is committed to reducing pollution and preserving wildlife, so there are plenty of ways you can help out and make the most of your time in Pensacola.