Spring Transition: Trout Moving, Sheepshead Spawning, and Redfish After Dark

Spring is starting to show up along the Alabama Gulf Coast, and with it comes some of the most exciting seasonal fishing patterns of the year. In this week's Alabama Saltwater Fishing Report, host Butch Thierry checks in with guides and anglers across the region to break down what's happening on the water right now. Captain Bobby Abruscato of A-Team Fishing reports that speckled trout are beginning their seasonal transition out of the rivers as water temperatures climb into the low 60s. While many fish are staging near the mouths of tidal rivers, some of the biggest trout are still holding farther up the system on shallow flats and channel edges. Over on the beach and pier scene, Sean Lawless of The Lawless Tide shares a strong sheepshead report from Gulf State Park Pier, where anglers are catching fish from shallow sections all the way to the end of the pier. Ghost shrimp on small jigheads have been especially effective, often outperforming traditional baits like fiddler crabs and live shrimp. Captain Ben Knight with Great Southern Fishing Charters adds that the sheepshead spawn is firing up around passes, bridges, and jetties along the coast, with big fish staging on nearshore structure. He also discusses nighttime redfish opportunities around dock lights and bridges, along with a few important reminders about fishing etiquette and responsible harvest during these seasonal congregations. If you're planning a trip to the Alabama coast this week, this episode will help you understand where the fish are moving, what they're eating, and how to take advantage of one of the most dynamic fishing periods of the year. SPONSORS CCA Alabama AL DCNR Dixie Supply and Baker Metalworks Killerdock Foster Contracting Gulf Coast Shows Black Buffalo Slipski Coastal Connection Fiber Plastic Hilton's Realtime Nativator McCoy Outdoor Co. Ricciardone Dentistry Coastal Brew Baits