Pensacola fishing offers a number of wonderful opportunities for angling enthusiasts to take advantage of. This Florida Panhandle city sits right on Pensacola Bay, which is part of the reason why it is a great place to go on a fishing vacation, and it only gets better when you consider the Gulf of Mexico and the other area waters. Pensacola fishing charters are available in good supply to help locals and visitors arrange outings, and you can always go it alone if you prefer, provided that you have the necessary license.

On Pensacola fishing trips, billfish, mackerel, and tuna are just some of the species that you can hope to catch. Grouper and red snapper are also abundant in number off the coast, and should you move inland to do your casting, you can hope to snag some bonita, lady fish, flounder, redfish, and speckled trout. Perdido Key is among the more popular inland fishing destinations, and you can also enjoy inshore fishing at parks such as Big Lagoon State Park.

Many of the Pensacola fishing charters take their guests out into the Gulf of Mexico for some deep sea fun. Mahi mahi, wahoo, red snapper, and amberjack, are among the species that you can expect to catch when deep sea fishing in the gulf waters near Pensacola, and since you can most often keep what you catch, a very rewarding dinner can cap the day off. Coolers full of ice are provided by most of the Pensacola fishing charters, and you can usually bring your own if you wish. Beverages and such can be stored in the coolers, as can fish. Regardless of whether you want to go deep sea fishing or you prefer to head inshore, the area fishing charters can also provide you with all the equipment that you will need, and better yet, you won't have to worry about getting a fishing license.

Pensacola Map

One of the best things about Pensacola fishing is the fact that there are a number of fishing piers found in the area. One such pier is the Pensacola Beach Gulf Fishing Pier. As its name would imply, this 1,471-foot pier calls Pensacola Beach home. It is open around the clock and throughout the year, and you are free to cast lines from its deck if you please. The fees are more than reasonable, and as is the case with the other fishing piers in the region, you won't need to worry about getting a fishing license. Also, bait and fishing equipment can be rented onsite.

Surf fishing, which involves casting your lines right off a beach, can also be enjoyed in the Pensacola area, with Perdido Key being among the top places to go. It should be noted, however, that you will need a state-issued fishing license to engage in this kind of fishing. Such licenses are also required if you wish to go out on your own in a boat, kayak, or canoe. Florida fishing licenses can be purchased at various tax collector offices in the Pensacola area and throughout Florida in general. You can also get one from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. A regional office can be found at 3911 Highway 2321 in Panama City.

Many of the Pensacola area charter companies offer fishing excursions that can include other activities as well. As such, you might look to mix some fishing with something like scuba diving or snorkeling. The options are extensive.