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7 Fascinating Facts About the Redfish

Thu, 23 Sep 2021 15:02:07 GMT

If you’ve ever spent a sweltering summer day testing your tackle in the emerald waters of Alabama’s coast, then you’ve probably heard the word “redfish”.

More than any other gulf species, redfish (also called a red drum, puppy drum, channel bass, red bass, or spottail) is synonymous with Alabama angling, and is known for biting the hook year-round. Today, on the Reel Gyspy Fishing blog , we share some fish-friendly facts about this flaky, feisty, and perennial favorite so you can impress your angler friends with more than just the size of your catch.

Redfish Facts

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1. Common Fish

Redfish are native to the eastern and southern Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico coasts of Louisiana, as well as:

Texas
Alabama
Mississippi
Florida
Georgia
The Carolinas
And Virginia

These fish are often recognized for having a reddish, coppery sheen that fades into white as it nears the belly. They have characteristic eyespots that can run from the base of the caudal fin to the back half of the body.

2. Long Lifespan

Redfish can live up to 40 years and are considered mature at around 6. The average adult ranges in size from 10-35 inches. Anglers commonly differentiate between sizes, calling small ones “rats”, medium ones “slots”, and large ones “bulls”. The world-record redfish , caught in 1984, weighed in at just over 94-pounds.

3. Various Habitats

Like most shallow-water species, they spawn in and inhabit marshes, bays, and grassy sand flats, where they submerge themselves in the soft warm mud. Redfish love the rocky outcroppings beneath piers and around jetties, and will swim along rivers and tidal creeks when the weather cools. Redfish can also be spotted slinking along shorelines.

4. They Know How to Feast!

Redfish are a ravenous species that feed quickly and aggressively. They are most active at dawn and dusk. They locate food by sight, touch, and through vacuuming sea-bottom substrate. Depending on the season, they will forage for mud minnows, shrimp, mullet, crabs, croaker, and more.

5. Weird Noises

Male redfish make a knocking or drumming sound during spawning by vibrating their swim bladders.

6. They Taste Great!

They are known for their light-flavored and flaky flesh, making them an ideal fish to try and spice up with various cajun flavorings. A rule of thumb when it comes to the catch: the larger the redfish, the tougher its meat.

7. They’re Common During Fall

While redfish can be caught year-round, Fall is widely considered the best season for redfish, with sport fishing championships held annually in October and November throughout the regions they are found.

Angle For Redfish With Reel Gypsy Fishing

Tasty redfish can be yours for the taking when you book your next fishing adventure with Reel Gypsy Fishing. If you’d like to experience a fishing trip with the help of experienced fishermen and captains alike, don’t hesitate at all to contact us. Book your trip online today or call us at 251-533-1439 .

Why You Should Consider Fishing in Dauphin Island if You Haven’t Already

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 14:56:57 GMT

Nestled just three miles off the coast of the mainland is Dauphin (not “dolphin”) Island, also known as the sunset capital of Alabama.

More than just its sunsets, though, this dreamy little barrier island offers unrivaled access to some of the hottest fishing spots in the Gulf of Mexico. Home to a variety of piers, jetties, undeveloped sandy shores, and charter companies like Reel Gypsy Fishing, Whether a fledgling newcomer or a seasoned sportfishing extraordinaire, every type of angler is welcomed when they want to go fishing in Dauphin Island.

Dauphin Island is Perfectly Located

Accessed by a 3-mile long bridge, Dauphin island sits just off the Alabama shoreline and divides Mobile Bay from Mississippi Sound, with the mighty Gulf at its mouth. It is in close proximity to a diverse range of different marine habitats, from inshore estuaries and shallows, to offshore pelagic layers. Though the island itself is fairly small, it is home to an impressive number of fishing spots accessible right from the shore, such as Cedar Point Pier, The Shoals, and Dog River. In addition, just off the coast are thousands of artificial reefs installations and shipwrecks that provide shelter and sustenance for gamefish of all kinds. Due to its location, the trawling action offered on Dauphin Island is hard to beat.

What You Can Catch From Dauphin Island

Any local will tell you that what really makes fishing in Dauphin Island an angler’s paradise is its year-round diversity of gamefish. Winter, Summer, Spring, or Fall, there’s a kind of tackle and bait for them all. From gargantuan offshore beasts lurking in the reefs to inshore juveniles darting around the bay and sound, there are enough species off the surf of Dauphin Island to fill an encyclopedia. Perennial favorites include redfish , speckled trout, and flounder. Though, for many diehards, the real action lies farther out in the gulf, where red snappers, king mackerel, wahoo, amberjack, and other trophy-worthy species are the targets.

How To Fish Around Dauphin Island

Now you know Dauphin Island is well-situated and teeming with fish to catch, so the question is, how do you do it? There are two main methods of fishing in Dauphin Island, which we’ll highlight below.

On Shore

Just by setting foot on the island, you’ve opened your proverbial tackle box. Dauphin has loads of piers, bridges, pilings, and miles of shoreline to fish the surf from. If you’re lucky, you might even find some locals milling about willing to share tips and tricks.

By Boat

No matter if you’re looking to spend the day lipping trout in Mobile Bay’s prolific shallows or vying for a record-setting snapper offshore, hopping aboard one of Dauphin Island’s local fishing charters is the best way to get your rod in the water. Hiring a charter will give you access to a local captain who knows these waters like the back of their hand, so you’ll be searching less and casting more.

Angle Dauphin Island With Reel Gypsy Fishing If you want a REEL good time, then book a trip with the experts over at Reel Gypsy Fishing. Through our professional services, you can trust that we will provide the ultimate fishing experience during your trip to Dauphin Island. Book your trip online today, call 251-533-1439 .

Techniques for Improving Your Fishing

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 14:54:56 GMT

Maybe you’ve recently gone on your first fishing charter and are absolutely hooked.

Or perhaps you’ve spent the past week along the shimmering shores of Alabama’s emerald coast, bare feet in the sand and line out in the surf, and you can’t get enough.

Whatever it is, along with all the fun you’re having, you’re probably hoping to better your skills as a fisherman. If so, you’ve come to the right blog. Today, Reel Gypsy Fishing shares our top fishing techniques for increasing your chances of getting a fish on, every time.

Work on Your Knots

Bar none, the first of many fishing techniques you can use to refine your skills is by practicing your knots . As soon as a formidable fish is set on the other end of your line, a poorly tied knot is almost guaranteed to break. In general, it’s important to be able to tie together two lines of approximately equal diameter, as well as tie lines of unequal diameter. Lastly, learn how to attach a hook, lure, swivel, and sinker to your line.

Change Your Fishing Line

Even seasoned anglers can forget to replace their line. When your fishing line becomes worn and roughened, it’s more likely to break off with the fish. Beyond simply losing the catch, a broken line will be towed around by the fish and can trap it or other fish, since the time it takes to deteriorate is quite long. To that end, it’s vital to keep your fishing line new and strong.

Learn The Tides

Beyond maintenance of your gear, one of the most crucial fishing techniques is to learn about the strength and direction of the tide you are fishing. While especially critical when fishing inshore and nearshore, the height of the tide also matters offshore, since fish in all areas tend to feed in moving water.

Match Your Lure With The Water And Weather

One of the most overlooked fishing techniques is to choose the right lure for the right water. Murky waters on a cloudy day may necessitate a brightly contrasted lure, while clear and sunny waters will fish better with flashy and silvery lures.

Get Hooked! Charter With Reel Gypsy Fishing

Grab your reel and rod and come discover why Reel Gypsy Fishing is coastal Alabama’s premier fishing charter. Our family of experienced anglers and captains bring decades of combined knowledge and skill to every trip to ensure the most bang for your buck and the most fish in your bucket. We are conveniently located in the Mobile Bay area, next to a variety of world-class vacation destinations and fishing grounds off the Alabama coast. Book your trip online today by calling us at 251-533-1439 .

Why is Fort Morgan, Alabama a Prime Fishing Spot?

Wed, 15 Sep 2021 14:49:39 GMT

Located on the western-most tip of the Mobile Point peninsula, Fort Morgan is an ideal gateway to the lush waters and shimmering sands of Alabama’s emerald coast.

Even better, thanks to its proximity to the larger bay area and a range of shallow, sandy, and estuarine inshore habitats, Fort Morgan is one of the gulf’s premier fishing destinations. Not hooked yet? Let’s dive in a bit further to see why you should go fishing in Fort Morgan, Alabama.

Fish Species in Fort Morgan

Like many of the small towns that line the gulf coast of Alabama, Fort Morgan has been blessed by the addition of artificial reefs zones that have been installed along shorelines and offshore all over the region. These artificial reefs are fashioned by using decommissioned man-made structures and materials, and are meant to help restore and refurbish marine habitats through sustainable means. As of today, some 15,000 reef installations have been placed along the gulf coastal line, which in total encompass nearly 1,200 square miles. These reefs have done wonders for local fish populations and provided a boon for anglers, whether local or visiting. On a given cast in a given location, you’ll have the chance to land one of a variety of different prized game fish, including King Mackerel, Cobia, Red Snapper, Speckled Trout, Flounder, and much more.

How to go About Fishing in Fort Morgan, Alabama

Beyond harboring a rich diversity of game, Fort Morgan offers a range of different options for anglers of all shapes, sizes, and skill levels.

By Boat

Without a doubt, the ultimate way to cast your line is on board a local charter. While on a boat, you’ll have access to the Alabama gulf’s fish-filled waters entirely, from its sandy shallows to its deepest hotspots, with your preferred species as the target. In addition, you’ll have access to state of the art angling gear as well as invaluable advice and locals-only knowledge that only a charter captain can provide.

By Shore

Fort Morgan has an abundance of fishing opportunities on foot. While waiting for your charter to begin, or just after it ends, you can practice up and spend the day in good old southern comfort relaxation by casting a line out from the shore. In particular, the town’s western tip, called Dixey Bar, is a premier onshore fishing location , with some expert anglers known to land monster redfish without even stepping foot into the surf.

Get Hooked On Fort Morgan. Choose Reel Gypsy Fishing

Grab your reel and rod and come discover why Reel Gypsy Fishing is Fort Morgan’s premier fishing charter. Our family of experienced anglers and captains bring decades of combined knowledge and skill to every trip to ensure the most bang for your buck and the most fish in your bucket. We are conveniently located in the Mobile Bay area, next to a variety of world-class vacation destinations and fishing grounds off the Alabama coast. Book your trip online today or call us at 251-299-9081 to learn more about fishing in Fort Morgan, Alabama.

What You Should Know About Fishing on The Alabama Coast

Thu, 12 Aug 2021 15:52:00 GMT

While Alabama’s borders stretch far north into the heart of America’s south, it’s along the Yellowhammer State’s 53 miles of coastline that the magic really happens.

Home to both a breadth of fishing destination beach towns and some of the nations most productive seafood companies, Alabama’s coast offers world-class angling on every tide. Before you cast your line, however, here are a few important things Reel Gypsy Fishing wants you to know about fishing off our coast.

Alabama Coast Fishing License

To begin, fishing in Alabama’s waters requires a license for those between the ages of 16 and 65. Depending on whether you plan to fish in freshwater or saltwater, or whether you are an Alabama resident or not, the type of license and its price tag will vary. Check the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources website for exact requirements for fishing on the coast. But if you go on a trip in Alabama with a fishing guide, then you do not need a fishing license.

Alabama Coast Fishing Locations

Alabama’s coastline is dotted with a number of world-class fishing and beach destinations, such as Orange Beach, Fort Morgan at Gulf Shores, and our very own Dauphin Island, a small barrier island accessible by bridge that sits just three miles off the coastline and is bordered by both Mobile Bay and Mississippi Sound. Locations like the Gulf State Park and Cedar Point piers offer great angling from the shoreline. Every town offers miles of sanded coastline to explore and cast from, as well as options for fishing inshore, nearshore, and even offshore.

Alabama Coast Fish Species

Thanks to the hundreds of square miles of artificial reef that lines the coast, Alabama’s emerald waters are teeming with wildlife. Depending on the season you are fishing, you’ll have the chance to haul in redfish, king and spanish mackerel, sheepshead, snappers, cobia, amberjack, speckled trout, and much more.

Alabama Coast Fishing Charters

Undoubtedly the best way to fish the coast of Alabama is by charter boat. Hiring a captain to guide you will ensure that you have access to all water habitats off the coast, from the inshore shallows to the offshore deeps, bays, estuaries, coves, and everything in between. A charter like Reel Gypsy Fishing will also provide the necessary maritime equipment and the right tackle and gear for any species you might be targeting.

Reel Gypsy Fishing: The Alabama Coasts Top Fishing Charter.

A short 30 minute drive from Mobile is all it takes to ride with Reel Gypsy Fishing, the Alabama coast’s premier fishing charter for all fishing skill levels. With our team, you can rest assured knowing that your fishing trip will be in the good hands of experienced fishermen and captains. Book your trip online today by calling us at 251-533-1439 .

What You Might Not Know About Speckled Trout

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 16:10:38 GMT

When it comes to inshore fishing off the coast of Alabama, there are few light tackle catches more prized than the aptly named speckled trout.

While not the most ferocious fish you’ll ever find at the other end of the line, this estuarine staple has stood the test of time as a saltwater angler favorite throughout the southeastern United States. If you’re curious to learn more, Reel Gypsy Fishing has gathered some interesting facts below to help school you on this popular commercial and recreational game fish.

What Are Speckled Trout?

Well, the obvious answer is fish. But are they really trout? Surprisingly, the answer is no. Contrary to its name, the speckled species belongs not to the trout family, but rather the drum family . Like all members of this family, the speckled trout has an air bladder that it uses to generate a croaking sound that is reminiscent of a small drum and meant to attract potential mates. The body of a speckled trout is silvery with a purple sheen and has eponymous black dots (or speckles) that pockmark along with its fins and back. Though with an exception, many have two canine teeth that protrude from the front of their mouths.

Location And Range

Speckled trout live almost exclusively inshore at the top of the water column and along the coast of the southeastern United States, such as:

Texas
Louisiana
Alabama
Mississippi
Georgia
And Florida

Though less common, speckled trout can be found in the Carolinas and Virginia, as well as in Delaware and even as far north as Cape Cod. Estuarine by nature (meaning they are native to estuaries), speckled trout thrive in both freshwater and saltwater, and tend to stay in close distance to the area in which they are born.

Size And Life-Cycle

The life of a speckled trout begins in the marshy shallows of estuaries that line the coast. Small eggs, hardly larger than a grain of sand, float along the waters’ surface, where they hatch between spring and fall of each year. Once hatched, speckled trout eat rapidly and nonstop in order to increase their size and minimize chances of being eaten themselves. They feast on shrimp and other small crustaceans. On average, speckled trout range from 8-10 inches in length but there are also speckled trout that are 18-23 inches available in specific areas. Once having reached maturity, approximately two years from when they hatch. At their maximum, speckled trout have been known to reach nearly 40 inches and weigh almost 18 pounds!

Fishing

Because they are such prolific breeders and relatively easy to hook, speckled trout are routinely considered one of the best and most sustainable fish to catch in the United States. It’s estimated that nearly half a million are brought boat-side each year. State regulations often change annually, depending on the size of the hatch and other factors, so be sure you are privy to the latest updates.

World-Class Angling is Only a Click Away With Reel Gypsy Fishing

If you are looking for a quality fishing charter, regardless of your experience, look no further than Reel Gypsy Fishing. Our fishing charter possesses a team of experienced anglers and captains that bring with them decades of combined knowledge and skill to every trip. If you’re interested, book your trip online through our contact page or call us at 251-533-1439 .

5 Interesting Facts About Dauphin Island Alabama

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 16:07:53 GMT

Nestled just three miles south of the western edge of Mobile Bay is Dauphin Island.

Also known as the sunset capital of Alabama, this small barrier island is a premier vacation destination that’s famous for its endless stretches of white sand beaches, shimmering emerald waters, and abundant marine wildlife. Of course, like most small towns that skirt the hustle and bustle of urban life, there’s more to Dauphin Island than meets the eye. Take a look below at Reel Gypsy Fishing’s five favorite facts about our little slice of paradise that are sure to keep you coming back to go fishing in Dauphin Island Alabama.

1. The Name is French

Commonly mispronounced as “œdolphin”, our island actually gets its name from the French word for the aquatic animal. Historically, the term dauphin was used as a title for the heir to the French throne, and the island was named for the great-grandson of Louis XIV.

2. It is a Barrier Island

Dauphin Island is unique in that it is a barrier island, a constantly morphing deposit of sand that aligns along shallow coastal waters. Due to their geography, barrier islands create natural microclimates like bays, lagoons, tidal flats, maritime forests, and estuaries, all of which are critical habitats for a range of marine wildlife species.

3. It is a Hub For Migrating Birds

For many neotropical birds migrating to and from South America, Dauphin Island is the first landmass encountered when heading north. Accordingly, the island has several bird sanctuaries, including the Audubon Bird Sanctuary, which spans 164 acres and is a temporary home to hundreds of different species year-round.

4. It is Reachable by Both a Bridge and a Ferry

That’s right. To get to Dauphin Island, you have a couple of options. First, you can drive across a massive, three-mile-long bridge that separates Mobile Bay from Mississippi Sound. Initially built in 1955, the bridge was destroyed by Hurricane Frederic in 1979 and rebuilt three years later. Alternatively, you can take the ferry from Fort Morgan in Gulf Shores and cross the mouth of Mobile Bay. Either way, both entrances to Dauphin Island offer scenic and panoramic views of the gulf coast.

5. It Has World-Class Fishing

For obvious reasons, we couldn’t resist adding this one. Just off the coast of dauphin islands are some of the largest and most productive artificial reef systems on the planet. This allows for a richness of marine biolife year-round that is perfectly suited for anglers of all skill sets. Speckled Trout, Redfish, Cobia, Tripletail, Red Snapper, Sheepshead, Mackerel, and more are all hooked regularly, making fishing in Dauphin Island Alabama one of the most premier fishing locations in the US.

Reel Gypsy Fishing: Dauphin Island’s Top Fishing Charter

You can go fishing in Dauphin Island Alabama right now when you book a trip with Reel Gypsy Fishing. Reel Gypsy Fishing boasts a team of experienced anglers and captains that always bring decades of combined experience and knowledge to every trip. We are conveniently located next to a variety of world-class vacation destinations and fishing grounds off the Alabama coast. Book your trip online today, call 251-533-1439 .

Why is Orange Beach, Alabama a Premier Fishing Destination

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 16:04:44 GMT

We’ll admit it. For many, the thought of Alabama doesn’t exactly bring world-class fishing to mind.

Of course, if you’ve spent any time along the emerald coast of Alabama, you know that it boasts some of the best fishing in the continental United States. Still unconvinced? Here’s Reel Gyspy Fishing’s take on why fishing in Orange Beach Alabama and its surrounding areas are premier fishing destinations for novice and seasoned anglers alike.

Orange Beach is Near The Most Productive Artificial Reef Program in The United States

That’s right. Just off Alabama’s gulf coast are some of the most expansive and biologically diverse artificial reefs on the planet. Because hard substrate is scarce at the ocean bottom along with modern coastal Alabama, these artificial reefs help to provide sub-aquatic features to an otherwise featureless oceanscape. Over the past several decades, The Alabama Marine Resources Division (AMRD) has dedicated large sums of money and energy to repurposing decommissioned bridges, limestone aggregate, culverts, manholes, ships, drydocks, barges, and other man-made materials to fabricate reef modules that imitate naturally occurring habitats for marine wildlife. Reefs of this sort are found all through the nearshore and inshore waters of Alabama, with certain installations reaching up to 55 nautical miles offshore and others placed in less than 200 feet of water near shorelines. Overall, there are some 15,000 artificial reefs off the coast of Alabama that, in aggregate, span nearly 1,100 square miles. The result of these reefs has been a dramatic increase in biodiversity that has seen species such as:

Snapper
Triggerfish
Flounder
Grouper
Mackerel
Barracuda
Sharks
And Sheepshead

These species have greatly increased their numbers and resilience to ecological hardships. Pretty impressive, no?

Orange Beach Offers Inshore, Nearshore, And Offshore Fishing

Fishing in Orange Beach Alabama is legendary in part because of the abundance of options for every skill level. Both trolling and bottom fishing are available at a range of different distances to the shoreline. Inshore charters will keep you within a few miles of the shore, often at a depth of 30 ft or less, and have you reeling in speckled trout, sheepshead, and tripletail. Nearshore takes place between 3-30 miles off the coast, often in slightly greater depths, and fishing action will comprise of species like mackerel, snapper, and jacks. Finally, fishing offshore of Orange beach (usually 30+ miles) can give anglers an opportunity to hook yellowfin, Bonito, Wahoo, Marlin, and more.

Reel Gypsy Fishing: Orange Beach’™s Top Fishing Charter

Fishing in Orange Beach Alabama can be done to the most exciting extent when you book with Reel Gypsy Fishing. We are conveniently located next to a variety of world-class vacation destinations and fishing grounds off the Alabama coast and we can provide you an experience like no other. Book your trip online today by calling us at 251-533-1439 .

3 Best Tips For Prepping And Cooking Fish You Caught

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 16:01:38 GMT

So you’ve landed your first fish. Or maybe it’s your 2nd, or 3rd, or 40th. However many you bring into shore with you, to properly plate and eat your fish requires certain prepping steps beyond just getting your catch into the boat.

If you’ve lipped it, got the hook out of its mouth, and are wondering what’s next, take a look below at Reel Gypsy Fishing’s pro tips for prepping and cooking fish.

1. Bonk, Bleed, And Store

The first step to proper fish care after your catch has been brought into the boat (after you’ve snapped a few pics, of course) is to bonk, bleed, and store it. Doing so helps to both humanely minimize the suffering of the fish and to preserve its meat. To bonk a fish, it’s best to land a single blow with a heavy stick or specialized bonking tool right between the eyes. Next, using a sharp knife, cut into and through both gills, starting from one end of the neck and reaching the other. Dipping the fish back into the water and massaging it along its spine will help blood flow. Once the fish has been drained of blood, place it in a cooler to keep it chilled while you close out the day.

2. Fillet

Once the fishing is done and you’ve landed back onshore, the next step is to fillet the fish to prepare for cooking. This involves removing the skin, scales, innards, and separating the meat steaks from the fish’s skeleton. To accomplish this, follow the following:

Make sure the fillet knife you are using is sharp and properly sized.
Run the back of the knife along the scales, working from the tail to the head, until fully removed.
De-skin the fish by carefully running the knife between the skin and meat.
While holding the fish firmly against the cutting board, slice gently along the underbelly from neck to tail, and remove the innards by hand, being careful not to puncture organs or damage meat.
Rinse out the fish’s belly cavity thoroughly and run the rest of it under the water as well.
Depending on the size of the fish, you can either use the knife to remove each size and leave them whole, or section out each side into smaller steaks.

3. Cook: Fry, Bake, Sear

While most fish fillets will keep for a few days if properly stored in a sealed cooler with ice or a refrigerator, we suggest you eat yours as soon as possible for the freshest flavors and textures. There’s no single best way to cook a fish, but certain species are especially ideal for certain cooking methods. Red snapper, for example, is considered to be one of the best fishes to fry , worldwide. Cobia is perfect when massaged with butter or oil, then seared in a pan with a sprig of thyme, and finished off with a lemon wedge.

Reel Gypsy Fishing: Fish Like a Pro

Reel Gypsy Fishing is coastal Alabama’s premier fishing charter for all fishing skills levels, from beginners to masters. When you’re in the mood for cooking fish with your own fresh catch, book your trip online today or call us at 251-533-1439 to learn more.

6 Tips for Beginners in Fishing

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 15:57:50 GMT

Maybe you’ve recently wet a line on your first ocean outing off the coast of Alabama and the excitement has you wanting more.

Or perhaps a gulf-side saltwater charter is still sitting right there at the top of your wishlist. Whatever the case, if you’re new to the world of fishing, there are some basic pointers that every angler, whether seasoned or newly hooked, needs to know. Today, on the Reel Gypsy Fishing blog , we share six tips for fishing beginners.

Fishing Beginners Tips

1. Choose The Right Lure

A key ingredient to beginner fishing is ensuring that what’s on the end of your line entices what you’re fishing for. To find the right lure, you’ll want to consider a variety of different traits and test them out since each day can be different, depending on factors like weather and season. Generally speaking, matching the color of your lure to the water is a good place to start, as is selecting a lure that is similar in size and shape to whatever bait your targets are feeding on.

2. Match Your Rod And Reel to Your Catch

Whether you’re casting to a speckled trout or dropping to a monster red snapper, it’s critical to use rods and reels that are sized for the species you’re targeting. Using gear that is too heavy-duty will decrease your chances of landing a fish while using ultralight gear on the wrong catch will all but guarantee that you’ll be heading back to shore with a broken rod.

3. Keep Your Hook Sharp

This tip might seem obvious, but given how many anglers lose fish every day due to old, dull hooks, we think it’s worth sharing. New hooks are much more likely to hold a fish after the hook has been set.

4. Practice Your Casts, Knots, And Baiting

The bread and butter of fishing, casts, knot tying, and properly hooking your bait all factor into how many fish you’ll bring to the boat. These are skills that are easily practiced without stepping off the dock, and having a basic handle on them will make your next fishing trip more successful, guaranteed.

5. Consider Tides, Weather, Season

Choosing where and when to fish can make or break how many you haul into shore. Differences in currents, tides, depth, and wind can dramatically affect fish migration and consumption patterns, as can the presence or absence of the sun and the moon.

6. Practice With a Guided Charter

Last but by no means least, as a first step towards sharpening your fishing skills, try setting out on the seas with an experienced angler, who can guide you through the basics, from baiting to casting, reeling, lipping, navigating, and much more. Hiring a charter like Reel Gypsy Fishing is a perfect way to ensure that you return to shore more knowledgeable and more skilled than when you left.

Your Lifelong Love of Fishing Begins With Reel Gypsy Fishing

Reel Gypsy Fishing is coastal Alabama’s premier fishing charter for all fishing skills levels, from fishing beginners to masters. Our family of experienced anglers and captains bring decades of combined knowledge and skill to every trip. We are conveniently located next to a variety of world-class vacation destinations and fishing grounds in the Mobile Bay Area. Book your trip online today, or call us at 251-533-1439 to learn more.