Gulfport, Mississippi, is a prime destination for fishing enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of opportunities to catch a variety of species. From inshore waters teeming with Redfish and Speckled Trout to the deep blue sea where Billfish and Tuna roam, Gulfport’s fishing scene caters to anglers of all skill levels. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best fishing spots, the types of fish you can catch, the local fishing charters, and the seasonal patterns to help you plan your ultimate fishing adventure in Gulfport.
Fishing Spots in Gulfport
- Biloxi Marsh: Known for its murky waters, this spot is ideal for catching Redfish, Speckled Trout, Flounder, and other inshore species.
- Cat Island: Located about 8 miles from Gulfport, this barrier island is perfect for fishing and offers a tranquil atmosphere. It is home to large Speckled Trout and various Shark species.
- Gulfport Small Craft Harbor: Also known as Gulfport Municipal Marina, this harbor has multiple fishing piers, boat launches, and a bait shop. It provides direct access to inshore waters where you can catch Redfish, Flounder, Sheepshead, and Tripletail.
- Bay St. Louis: This spot is ideal for kayaking and fishing, offering a chance to catch Specks and encounter Blacktip Sharks.
- The Nipple, the Elbow, and the Spur: These are nicknames for lucrative fishing spots in DeSoto Canyon, where you can catch a variety of species with the guidance of an experienced Gulfport captain.
Types of Fish in Gulfport
Gulfport’s waters are home to a diverse array of fish species, ranging from inshore to offshore. Here are the main categories and the species you can target:
- Inshore Species:
- Redfish
- Speckled Trout
- Flounder
- Black Drum
- Tripletail
-
Sheepshead
-
Nearshore Species:
- Cobia
- Kingfish
- Amberjack
-
Grouper
-
Offshore Species:
- Billfish
- Wahoo
- Mahi Mahi
- Tuna
Fishing Charters in Gulfport
Gulfport offers a variety of fishing charters to cater to the needs of anglers of all experience levels. Here are a few notable options:
- Gulfport Fishing Charters: These charters offer a variety of trips, including deep sea, nearshore, inshore, flats, and lake trips. They cater to different preferences and skill levels.
- Cost: Prices for charters vary, with some starting from US $88 per person. You can filter results by price, review score, and other criteria to find the best fit for your needs.
Fishing Seasons in Gulfport
Gulfport’s fishing seasons are diverse, with different species thriving at different times of the year. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect each month:
- January: Focus on inshore fishing in the marshes for Specks and Redfish due to unpredictable weather.
- February: Continue to target Trout and Redfish in the shallows, with Black Drum and Sheepshead also active.
- March: Enjoy more pleasant weather and target Red and Black Drum, Speckled Trout, and Sheepshead.
- April: Look for Cobia and Grouper on the reefs, with King Mackerel and Bonito also present.
- May: Amberjack are open for harvest, and the Cobia migration is in full swing.
- June: Participate in the Mississippi Gulf Coast Billfish Classic and Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo, or target Red Snapper.
- July: Catch Yellowfin Tuna, Mahi Mahi, White Marlin, and other deep-sea species.
- August: Amberjack are back on the menu, and the heat and humidity can be challenging.
- September: Focus on Tripletail and enjoy the cooler weather.
- October: Fish the oyster beds and shallow structure for Speckled Trout and Redfish.
- November: Catch your limits of Specks and Redfish in a couple of hours.
- December: Target Sheepshead and Black Drum in the bays.
Additional Information
- Gulfport Harbor Winter Lights Festival: This festival takes place in December and offers a festive atmosphere while you fish.
- Gigging for Flounder: This is a popular Mississippi tradition that offers a unique fishing experience.
References
- https://legendsofthelowermarsh.com/2023-guide-to-gulfport-ms-fishing/
- https://fishingbooker.com/blog/gulfport-ms-fishing/
- https://captainexperiences.com/locations/mississippi/gulfport-1
- https://legendsofthelowermarsh.com/gulfport-fishing-charters/
- https://fishingbooker.com/destinations/location/us/MS/gulfport.