The best time to fish in Pensacola depends on a number of factors. The species that you want to target, the weather conditions, and fishing seasons are all important aspects that can impact your trip. The best time of year to fish in Pensacola also depends on whether you are planning on fishing catch and release or looking for some food to take home.
Best Time of Year to Fish in Pensacola
Winter in Pensacola is a great time to chase Redfish on the grass flats and inshore piers. Sheepshead and whiting are still around this time of year as well.
Spring brings warm water and good opportunities for a few different species. Speckled Trout are plentiful in the shallows and Flounder are active on the beaches and piers pensacola beach fishing charters. This is the best time of year to try to catch an “Inshore Slam” (a Redfish, a Trout, and a Flounder) in one outing.
Summer in Pensacola can be a little busy at the beaches, but it’s a great time to catch migratory species like Amberjack on local reefs such as Oriskany Memorial Reef. Also, the season opens for both Red and Gag Grouper in federal waters and if you are targeting trout, Johnson Beach is the place to be.
Fall in Pensacola is a kayaker’s paradise with calm, clear waters and abundant wildlife. It’s the perfect time to explore unspoiled marshes and reconnect with nature. Also, it’s a fantastic time to chase some of the area’s trophy-sized fish such as Redfish and Black Drum in the passes.