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BOA : Weekly Fishing Report 4/17 to 4/22



Welcome back to your first weekly fishing report for 2026 from Bedsole Outdoor Adventures. Spring patterns are settling in across the Gulf, and the bite is heating up from Destin to Panama City Beach to Orange Beach. Captains along the coast are reporting solid action last week as the Spring season starts heating up. Here’s everything you need to know before heading out this week.




Weather & Conditions

This week brings improving conditions and warmer water:

  • Wind: 8–15 knots through Saturday, calming early next week

  • Waves: 2–4 ft through the weekend, dropping to 1–2 ft by Monday

  • Water Temp: Mid‑70s and rising

  • Clarity: Improving daily along the beaches

Overall: A very fishable week ahead, especially offshore once seas settle.

What’s Biting (4/17–4/22)

Offshore

  • Vermilion Snapper (Mingo)

  • Scamp Grouper

  • Blackfin Tuna

  • King Mackerel

  • Triggerfish

Nearshore

  • Spanish Mackerel

  • Cobia

  • Pompano

Inshore

  • Speckled Trout

  • Redfish

  • Sheepshead


Special Notices for Anglers


2026 Red Snapper Season Dates

Federal For‑Hire (Charter Boats – Alabama, Destin, PCB)

June 1 – October 26, 2026   This applies to all federally permitted charter/headboat vessels.

Alabama Private Anglers (Gulf Shores / Orange Beach)

  • 2026 private angler season not yet announced

  • Expected limits: 2 per person, 16" minimum

Florida Private Anglers (Destin / Panama City Beach)

  • 2026 private angler season not yet announced

Other Notices

  • Greater Amberjack: Closed in federal Gulf waters

  • Cobia: Check updated size limits before keeping fish

Upcoming Events

Destin

  • Destin Cobia Tournament – Ongoing

  • Spring King Mackerel Shootout – Late April

Panama City Beach

  • Cobia Run Classic – April 19–27

  • Bay Point Billfish Open Prep Week – Teams scouting now

Orange Beach / Gulf Shores

  • Mud Marlin Classic – April 25–26

  • Outboard Challenge – Ongoing through October

Book Your Fishing Trip

With calmer seas returning and spring migrations in full swing, this is one of the best weeks of April to get on the water. Local charters are filling quickly — secure your spot now and chase the hot bite while it lasts.



Visit Our Website

For exclusive offers, product reviews, and weekly fishing intel, visit www,boadventures.com and join the BOA community.

 
 
 

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