Whether you are fishing from the pier, renting a bay boat or chartering an offshore fishing trip, Pensacola offers die-hard fisherman and vacationers alike a chance to see a wide variety of Florida inshore and Gulf of Mexico species. From spotted seatrout in Escambia Bay to cobia and red snapper in the Gulf, the emerald waters surrounding Pensacola beckon anglers of all skill levels.

What Kind of Fish Can You Catch in Pensacola, Florida?

Redfish are the most popular species caught on inshore trips, and they are a staple in the diet of many locals and visitors to best fishing charter near me. They can be found throughout the year, but are best in the summer months. Speckled trout are a popular inshore target during the spring and fall, while pompano can be caught throughout the year.

Sheepshead are another abundant species found at the pier, and they are often targeted with a pair of bare hooks baited with live shrimp or small fiddler crabs. They can be found on the pilings at the pier, in the bay, around wrecks, and close to shore. They are a great eat, but be sure to remove all barnacles and scales before eating.

Bluefish are a fun species to catch, and they can be caught on fast moving lures, such as spoons. These fish are predominately sight feeders, and they can be aggressive fighters. They make excellent cut bait for larger species, and can be kept for this purpose. Be sure to use a short piece of leader that is stronger than your main line, as these fish have razor sharp teeth.