Within 9 Miles
Family-Friendly Fishing Just Minutes from Shore
If you are looking for a fun, productive, and easy offshore fishing experience, Red Eye Charters offers some of the best Alabama State Water fishing trips in Gulf Shores. These trips take place within 9 miles of the coastline, giving you access to excellent fishing without the long runs into deep offshore waters.
Perfect for families, beginners, and small groups, state water trips provide a balance of comfort, action, and accessibility. You can enjoy the excitement of deep sea fishing while staying closer to shore in calmer conditions.
Whether you are introducing kids to fishing or planning a relaxed day on the Gulf, these trips are designed to be enjoyable, stress-free, and productive.
The Vessel
Fish Aboard the Red Eye
Your trip takes place aboard the Red Eye, a proven 36-foot Topaz that has been part of the fleet since 2001. Known as the original workhorse, this boat is built for reliability, comfort, and consistent fishing performance.
The Red Eye is equipped with a comfortable cabin that includes air conditioning, bunks, and a restroom, giving you a place to relax between fishing spots. The spacious deck allows plenty of room to move around while staying connected to the action.
Operating under Alabama State Guide Boat Regulations, this vessel is permitted to fish within the 9-mile state water limit. This allows access to state-managed fishing seasons, including red snapper opportunities.
Why Choose State Water Fishing Trips
State water trips are one of the most popular options for anglers who want the offshore experience without committing to long travel times.
These trips are ideal for:
Families with kids
First-time anglers
Groups looking for shorter trips
Anyone wanting a relaxed fishing experience
Fishing closer to shore means less travel time and more time with lines in the water. It also provides more stable conditions, which is especially important for younger anglers or those new to boating.
What You Can Catch
Fishing within Alabama state waters still provides excellent opportunities to catch quality fish throughout the year.

Depending on the season, you may target:
Red Snapper
King Mackerel
Spanish Mackerel
Sheepshead
Redfish
Our captains adjust each trip based on current conditions and seasonal patterns to give you the best chance of success.
The Experience
Built for Comfort and Convenience
One of the biggest advantages of state water fishing is the ability to enjoy a full fishing experience without long offshore travel.
These trips allow you to:
More Time Fishing
Spend more time fishing and less time running.
Stay in Sight
Stay within sight of land throughout the trip.
Smoother Ride
Enjoy a smoother ride in calmer nearshore waters.
Relaxed Pace
Experience offshore fishing at a more relaxed pace.
It is the perfect balance between inshore and deep sea fishing.
Pricing
State Water Fishing Trip Options
All trips are designed for up to 6 people and are structured to provide flexibility based on your schedule and fishing goals.
Snapper Season
June to August | Up to 6 People
Snapper season is one of the most popular times of year for offshore fishing in Gulf Shores. These trips focus heavily on red snapper and other reef species, offering fast-paced action and excellent opportunities to bring home fish.
6 Hour Trip
$1600
Fishing up to 25 miles offshore
12 Hour Trip
$3200
Fishing up to 55 miles offshore
Opens in March
May includes trolling for mackerel
4 Hour Nearshore Trip
$900
Fishing around nearshore oil rigs
January to April focuses on sheepshead fishing
May includes trolling for mackerel
This trip is perfect for families and beginners looking for a shorter outing with steady action.
5 Hour State Water Red Snapper and Trolling Trip
$1100
Fishing up to 9 miles offshore

This trip targets red snapper along with trolling opportunities for mackerel. It offers a great mix of bottom fishing and active trolling.
6 Hour State Water Red Snapper and Trolling Trip
$1300
Fishing up to 9 miles offshore

This extended trip provides more fishing time and increased opportunities to target multiple species, including red snapper and mackerel.
State Highlight
Alabama State Water Red Snapper Season
One of the biggest advantages of state water trips is access to Alabama’s extended red snapper season.
The season typically:
Opens the Friday before Memorial Day
Runs seven days a week through June
Continues on weekends, including Friday through Monday, until the state quota is reached
This provides more opportunities to catch red snapper compared to federal offshore seasons.
Because these dates and limits can change, we recommend calling ahead for the most up-to-date information and availability.
What to Expect on Your Trip
We provide everything you need for a successful fishing trip, including:
Rods, reels, bait, and tackle
Fishing licenses
Expert instruction and guidance
What to bring
All you need to bring is
sunscreen, food, drinks, and comfortable clothing. We handle the rest so you can focus on enjoying your time on the water.
A Great Option for Families and First-Time Anglers
At Red Eye Charters, we designed these trips with accessibility in mind. State water fishing offers a great introduction to offshore fishing without the intensity of longer trips.
You can expect:
Shorter travel times
Calm and comfortable conditions
Easy-to-learn fishing techniques
A relaxed, family-friendly environment
Our crew provides hands-on guidance to ensure everyone feels comfortable and confident, whether it is your first time fishing or you have years of experience.
Book Your State Water Fishing Trip Today
Ready to enjoy one of the most accessible and family-friendly fishing charters in Gulf Shores?

Whether you are planning a quick trip, targeting red snapper, or just looking to enjoy a day on the water, Red Eye Charters is ready to take you fishing.
We are available 24/7 and ready to help you plan your trip.

Book today and experience Alabama state water fishing at its best with Red Eye Charters.