Fall Redfish, Triggerfish, and the Sardine Pass Cup — Alabama Saltwater Fishing Report

This week's Alabama Saltwater Fishing Report covers some outstanding late-fall fishing along the Alabama Gulf Coast, from redfish and speckled trout feeding under birds in the Mobile-Tensaw Delta to triggerfish, vermilion snapper, and Almaco jacks offshore. Capt. Tanner Deas of Dauphin Island Fishing Charters fills in for Butch Thierry, with Capt. Matt Swigum of Back Bay Charters joining as co-host.

Capt. Patric Garmeson of Ugly Fishing kicks things off with a detailed Causeway and lower Delta report, where unusually high salinity has brought excellent mixed-bag fishing opportunities. Patric explains how he's targeting schools of speckled trout, redfish, white trout, and occasional flounder using Slick Juniors, Z-Man paddletails, lipless crankbaits, and artificial shrimp under popping corks. He also shares practical advice on choosing jig-head weights, adjusting leader lengths, fishing around diving birds, and recognizing how fish behavior has changed with the recent full moon and falling water temperatures.

The episode also includes a special conversation between Butch Thierry and Will Cooksey about the Sardine Pass Cup fishing tournament on November 14. Will shares the story of his brother, Stewart Pendleton Cooksey, who died by suicide in 2020, and how his family created the tournament to honor Stewart's memory while raising awareness and support for men's mental health. The tournament benefits Movember and brings anglers together for a day of fishing, friendship, and conversations that can make a difference.

Capt. Spencer Kight of DI Reef Monster Fishing Charters follows with an offshore report covering an excellent gray triggerfish bite, quality vermilion snapper, and Almaco jacks. Spencer explains how he's using micro jigs, chicken rigs, and lighter-action rods to target these species around offshore reefs, and why adjusting bait depth and using a steady retrieve can dramatically improve results. He also shares tips on distinguishing Almaco jacks from greater amberjack and putting together a productive offshore trip when other seasons are closed.

Clifton Davis closes the show with a shore-fishing report from the Dauphin Island and Cedar Point area, where slot redfish, sheepshead, puppy drum, bull croakers, and occasional mangrove snapper have been providing excellent action. Clifton explains how he's using live shrimp, small pieces of fresh shrimp, marsh crabs, and short-leader Carolina rigs to target different species from the same general area. He also discusses how casting distance, current, hook selection, and drag settings can make a big difference when fishing around rocks and other structure.

Whether you're chasing fall trout in the Delta, filling the cooler offshore, or fishing from the bank, this episode offers plenty of practical tips for making the most of the season.