The Gulf of Mexico is known for its excellent deep sea fishing, bottom fishing and trolling, but do fishing charters in Biloxi offer year-round fishing? The short answer is yes.
As with most things in life, though, the real answer isn’t so simple. Read on to find out about fishing seasons, weather and other factors to consider when planning a Biloxi charter fishing trip.
Fishing Seasons
Federal and state governments have regulations in place regarding open season on different species of fish alongside size and bag limits for recreational fishermen (1). Biloxi’s captains who offer year-round charter fishing know what they’re doing when it comes to recreational regulations, but those who want to get a jump- start on planning may still want to familiarize themselves with the basics.
Here are seasons for specific fish:
Snapper Season
Most types of snapper can be caught all year, and recreational fishermen can bring home a combined total of up to 10 of them. The exception is Red Snapper. The Red Snapper season doesn’t open until June 1.
Grouper Season
When heading out Grouper fishing, Biloxi visitors should know the regulations are a little different. Captains who offer year-round charter fishing can only catch Gag Grouper from June through December, but other types of Grouper can be fished recreationally year-round except when fishing beyond the 20 fathom break, when the season is closed from February through March for Red, Black, Yellowfin, Scamp and Yellowmouth Grouper. Harvesting Goliath and Nassau Grouper is always prohibited.
Reef Fish Season
Recreational fishermen can bring home a combined total of 20 reef fish, including one Greater Amberjack and up to five Hogfish. It’s fine to catch Golden, Blueline, and Goldface Tilefish, Hogfish, Lesser Amberjack, Banded Rudderfish and Almaco Jack fish year-round. The season on Greater Amberjack is August through October, but Biloxi charter fishing boats can also catch them in May. Gray Triggerfish can only be caught from March to May or from August to December.
Coastal Migratory Peagics Season
Cobia, Spanish Mackerel, and King Mackerel can all be fished year-round. There are strict limits on how many of each species those who plan fishing charters can take, though.
What Is the Best Time to Charter a Fishing Trip in the Gulf of Mexico?
The best time to charter a fishing trip in the Gulf of Mexico depends on factors like experience level, what types of fish the customer wants to catch, and how willing they are to brave choppy seas or cold weather. While fishing charters offer fishing year-round, it’s better for those who have never been out on the water to make plans for the summer months. August is an especially good month for novice fishermen, as the water is typically calm and the weather is fine.
Those who prioritize affordability may want to plan a trip out on the water with a captain that offers year- round fishing. Heading out on the open seas in the winter may not be as pleasant of an experience, but it’s easier to find good deals. Plus, there will be less competition for sports fish like Tuna, which typically migrate back into the region in February.
As Brett Falterman points out in his discussion of recent research into Gulf Yellowfin populations, “The data suggests that some yellowfin tuna might spend a whole lifetime in the Gulf of Mexico” (2). That’s why many boat owners offer year-round charter fishing.
Charter Trips We Offer at Side Bet Sport Fishing Charters
Not everyone wants to spend 12 hours or more on the water around Biloxi, especially in the off season when the weather is less than balmy. That’s why Biloxi fishing charters offer other options. They include bottom fishing or trolling for fish like Red Drum, Spanish Mackerel, King Mackerel, Cobia, and others closer to the shore.
What Are the Best Deep Sea Fishing Areas out of Biloxi?
The best deep sea fishing areas out of Biloxi are usually the areas around oil rigs and rock formations, but there are also plenty of fish to be found closer to shore. Our trips range from 6 hours to 12 hours in length. Experienced fishermen might prefer fishing around the oil rigs where sports fish tend to congregate, while those heading out on their first family fishing trips with the kids may want to schedule a shorter trip.
Are Family Fishing Charters Available Out of Biloxi?
Family fishing charters are available out of Biloxi. Even younger kids often enjoy short fishing trips and most fishing charters can accommodate children, but make sure to do some research into how to prepare before heading out for a day out on the water (3). With adequate preparation, family fishing trips can offer a ton of fun for kids of all ages.
Biloxi, MS Fishing
The waters off of Biloxi’s shores are teeming with fish. While fish charters don’t offer a guarantee that anyone will make a catch, those heading out on the water for their first trips can always expect to have a good time.
The best part about year-round fishing is that those planning vacations to the Mississippi shore during the off- season can still schedule tours and enjoy themselves. There’s plenty to do on shore, as well, and planning a winter trip to the shore can help visitors save some money (4).
When they book fishing charters Biloxi visitors can expect to get access to all the gear they need. That makes packing light a breeze. Just make sure to bring weather appropriate clothes and find a charter capable of offering comprehensive tackle, gear, and safety equipment.
Looking for an Awesome Biloxi Fishing Trip?
Those looking for an awesome Biloxi fishing trip have come to the right place. Crew members at Side Bet Sport Fishing Charters of Biloxi have all the knowledge, skills, experience and equipment required to help sports fishermen land their first tunas, ensure that families with kids have a fun and relaxing trip, and make it easy to enjoy fishing charters all year.
Browse our website for more information or get in touch to book a trip today.
References
- Gulf Council gulfcouncil.org/fishing-regulations/federal/
- Sport Fishing Magazine www.sportfishingmag.com/gulf-mexico-yellowfin-tuna-research/
- Pinterest www.pinterest.com/pin/161637074096870904/
- Trip Advisor www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g43686-Activities-Biloxi_Mississippi.html