Thread: New to the area

Me and my dad will be coming to gulf shores in a couple weeks. We can't afford a guided trip and from this awesome forum looks like we don't need to anyways. Just curious if you all could lend a hand on how to rig our poles, bait, etc. Just basic stuff no need to give out secrets. Also, were just looking to catch a few fish for the grill. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

C'mon down. Some of the regulars will be glad to help, and if you need any help with tackle, just go to J&M Tackle---see the link at the top of the page. Just bring good weather with you.

Alright thanks I'm pretty excited about it never caught any saltwater fish. And hoping to hook into something

Welcome!
Check the existing threads on the forum, a lot of good advice.
When you get out to the pier, dont be afraid to ask questions.

I can attest to good help by the regulars. My first time out it was only a matter of minutes (when they saw how unfamiliar I was with pier fishing) before a guy gave me a sabiki and another showed me the live bait rig everybody uses in the octi. Fine group of fishermen down there!

Welcome aboard wranglerman!
Here is a link to a thread that has a lot of basics:
http://www.gulfshorespierfishing.com...-members-3182/

See, you've started already ;-)
+1 to go to J&M to get outfitted!
And most folks on the pier are glad to help out and answer questions for you.

It's all about fishing. Not who's catching. That is why this Forum is so unique. Welcome aboard; read the various threads so you will feel familiar to the language, ask questions, and CATCH SOMETHING! Don't have to get a trophy, just have a good time.

The easiest "eatin fish" to catch this time of year is probably Spanish mackerel. Buy a few bubble rigs and looney jigs and fish them from just past the mid section to the octi. Just kind of watch how the other folks are fishing and imitate. +2 on the trip to J&M. A really cool place to just go look around. Bring an aerated minnow bucket if you have one. I live out of town and will be down the last week of the month. Hoping the fish gods will clear up the water by then.

Thanks for the info everyone. If everyone down there are as helpful and friendly as you guys, I'm sure it'll be an enjoyable time. One last question I just saw this word a couple times. What is the octi? Don't want to look like a total newbie down there lol