Dauphin Island offers excellent year-round fishing with different species each season. Peak variety occurs in April-May and October when speckled trout, redfish, flounder, Spanish mackerel, cobia, and pompano are all active. Summer brings king mackerel, tarpon, and mangrove snapper, while winter features great sheepshead and speckled trout fishing in deeper waters.
Quick Seasonal Guide
- Spring (March-May): Cobia migration, pompano in surf, Spanish mackerel arrive, trout on flats
- Summer (June-August): King mackerel offshore, tarpon in Ship Channel, mangrove snapper at night, early morning trout
- Fall (September-November): Bull redfish in surf, flounder run at passes, excellent speckled trout, pompano return
- Winter (December-February): Sheepshead around structure, trout in deep holes, redfish on warm afternoons
Top Species by Month
Best Overall: April (cobia, pompano, mackerel, trout, redfish) Trophy Fish: October (bull redfish), April (cobia), July (king mackerel) Easy Catching: June-August (Spanish mackerel, mangrove snapper) Winter Best Bet: January-February (sheepshead)
📖 For complete fishing calendar and spots: Dauphin Island Fishing Calendar: What’s Biting Month by Month