Editor Pick
Zeke's Landing
- October 5, 2000
- Rated 4 of 5 by
Jim Rosenberg from Wausau, Wisconsin
Orange Beach and Gulf Shores share the Gulf of Mexico's larges sportfishing fleet, so vacationing anglers who prefer not to gear up for saltwater surf casting or pier fishing on their own, have plenty of options. Individuals charters are costly, but I've gone out several times using 'walk-on' chaters out of Zeke's Landing. You join a 'pick-up team' of 15 other people fishing from 40-52 foot boats on a six-hour trip. Twenty miles out in the gulf, we were cranking in red and vermillion snapper from 100 feet of water -- sometimes two at a time. Bottom fishing is not difficult. On two outings, it was no problem to bring in 35-45 lbs. of snapper and trigger fish. (At the price of quality ocean fish like this, it's actually possible to cost-justify your outing with your catch when things go well). This is a lot of fun and no license purchase is required on these types of charters. Plan on paying approximately $75 per person to fish this way. Even less costly is party boat fishing, which combines a boat ride on the Gulf with a bit of fishing for those who choose to take part and pay extra for the service. Some fish are invariably taken, but you get what you pay for with a more dedicated fishing junket. In either case, take your motion sickness pills. Well-protected, I was one of the last people still reeling in fish amidst 3-6 foot rollers while my compatriots were leaning over the rails and wishing for dry land. Fish are cleaned for a modest price per pound at the dock and ice is available. Be sure to tip the deck hand for the help on board and with fish cleaning.
From journal Gulf Shores: Fun on the Redneck Riveria