Get ready for the fishing trip of a lifetime with Pier Pressure Charters in Ocean Springs, MS! We're talking a full 12 hours of non-stop action in the rich federal waters of the Gulf. Whether you're after the hard-fighting amberjack or the prized red snapper, this extended day trip gives you the time and space to really get into the groove. With room for up to 6 anglers, it's perfect for a group of buddies or the whole family. Just remember to pack your lunch - we'll be too busy reeling in the big ones to worry about cooking!
As soon as we clear the harbor, you'll feel the excitement building. Our seasoned crew knows these waters like the back of their hand, and they're itching to put you on the fish. We'll be heading out to some prime spots where the big boys hang out - we're talking deep-water reefs, underwater structures, and secret honey holes that consistently produce trophy catches. You'll be using top-notch gear, and our team will be right there to help you land that monster you've been dreaming about. From the first drop to the last cast, it's all about maximizing your time on the water and filling the fish box.
On this trip, we'll be employing a variety of techniques to target different species. For red snapper and grouper, we'll likely be bottom fishing with heavy tackle and live bait. When we're after amberjack or cobia, get ready for some serious workouts as we vertical jig or use live bait near structure. For the pelagics like mahi-mahi or king mackerel, we might switch to trolling with rigged ballyhoo or artificial lures. Our crew will walk you through each method, ensuring you're comfortable and ready to hook into some serious fish. Don't worry if you're new to offshore fishing - we'll have you jigging and dropping like a pro in no time!
Let's talk about some of the heavy hitters you might encounter on this trip. First up, the greater amberjack - these bruisers are known as "reef donkeys" for good reason. They're strong, stubborn, and can easily top 50 pounds. Amberjack season typically runs from May to July, and again from September to October. When you hook one, hold on tight - it's going to be a battle!
Next, we've got the cobia, often called "lemonfish" around here. These curious fish can grow over 100 pounds and are known for their excellent table fare. They're usually cruising our waters from April through September. Sight-casting to a big cobia is an angler's dream - they're known to follow the boat, giving you a shot at a truly epic catch.
Red snapper is the crown jewel of Gulf fishing. With their bright red color and delicious white meat, they're always a crowd-pleaser. The federal season is short, usually in June and July, so booking during this time can lead to some incredible action. These fish can grow up to 40 pounds and put up a great fight on the way up from the deep.
Gag grouper are another prized catch. These hard-fighting bottom dwellers can reach sizes of 50 pounds or more. They love structure and will test your arms and your gear as they try to dive back to their rocky homes. The season for gag grouper typically runs from June through December.
Last but not least, the scamp grouper. While they don't get as big as their gag cousins, what they lack in size they make up for in flavor. Many consider scamp to be the best-tasting of all the groupers. They're available year-round in federal waters, but you'll have the best luck finding them in the cooler months.
Fishing with Pier Pressure Charters isn't just about the catch - it's about the experience. Our customers rave about the knowledge of our crew, the quality of our equipment, and the sheer variety of fish they encounter. Many of our repeat anglers tell us this trip ruined them for anything less than a full day on the water. There's something special about being out there as the sun rises, feeling that first bite, and coming back with a cooler full of fish and a camera full of memories.
Listen, if you're serious about offshore fishing, this is the trip for you. Twelve hours might sound like a long day, but trust me, when you're out there hauling in one big fish after another, time flies. We've got the knowledge, the gear, and the spots to make this a fishing trip you'll be talking about for years to come. Spaces fill up fast, especially during peak seasons for red snapper and amberjack. So don't wait - grab your fishing buddies, clear your schedule, and let's get out there and put some serious bend in those rods. Book now with Pier Pressure Charters and get ready for an offshore adventure that'll have you hooked for life!
Cobia are some of the most exciting fish to catch in our waters. These sleek predators can top 100 pounds, though 30-50 pounders are more common. Look for them around buoys, wrecks, and floating debris in 30-70 feet of water. Spring and early summer are prime time as they migrate along the coast. Cobia put up a heck of a fight, often making long runs and jumping clear out of the water. They're also fantastic eating - firm, white meat that's great on the grill. To hook one, sight-fishing is the way to go. Keep your eyes peeled for their distinctive shark-like profile near the surface. When you spot one, toss a live eel or large jig in front of it. Be ready for an explosive strike and a battle you won't soon forget.
Gag Grouper are bottom-dwelling brutes that'll test your strength and tackle. These fish can grow over 50 pounds, but 10-30 pounders are more common. You'll find them lurking around rocky bottoms, ledges, and wrecks in 60-250 feet of water. Fall and winter are prime seasons when they move closer to shore. Gags are prized for their hard-fighting nature and excellent table fare. When you hook one, be ready for a tug-of-war as they try to dive back into their rocky lairs. Live bait like pinfish or squid works well, but large jigs can also entice a strike. Here's a tip: when you feel that telltale thump, reel fast and pull hard to get them away from the bottom. If you can win that initial battle, you've got a good shot at landing a trophy gag.
Greater Amberjacks are powerhouses of the ocean, often reaching 6 feet and 100 pounds. You'll find these bruisers hanging around reefs, wrecks, and other structures in waters 30 to 300 feet deep. They're most active in spring and fall, when they make seasonal migrations. Anglers love targeting AJs for their incredible strength - they'll give you an arm-burning fight that'll test your gear and stamina. To land one, use heavy tackle and drop live bait like blue runners or pinfish near structure. Once hooked, get 'em up fast or they'll dive for cover. The meat is firm and tasty, but be aware of size and bag limits. Pro tip: when you spot a school, get a live bait down quick - they can be finicky, so your first shot might be your best.
Red Snapper are the rockstars of Gulf bottom fishing. These beautiful red fish typically run 5-20 pounds, but monsters over 30 are out there. You'll find them hanging around reefs, wrecks, and hard bottom areas in 60-300 feet of water. Summer is prime time when the season's open. Snapper are known for their hard-pulling fight and delicious white meat. They're crafty, often making a beeline for structure once hooked, so you've got to turn them quick. For bait, fresh cut fish or live pinfish are hard to beat. Here's a local trick: when you find a good spot, drop a chum bag to get them fired up. Then send down a live bait on a circle hook. Hold on tight - when a big snapper hits, it's game on!
Scamp Grouper might not be the biggest fish in the sea, but they're one of the tastiest. These bronze-colored beauties usually run 3-8 pounds, though they can reach up to 30. You'll find them hanging around rocky bottoms and ledges in 150-300 feet of water. They're most active in spring and fall. Scamp are known for their sweet, white meat - some say it's the best in the grouper family. They put up a solid fight for their size, often trying to dive back to their rocky homes. Live bait like pinfish or squid works well, but they'll also hit jigs and cut bait. Here's a local secret: if you're having trouble getting bites, try downsizing your tackle. Scamp can be finicky, and sometimes a more subtle presentation is the key to success.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 47
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 300