Fishing Q&A - What is the best type of fish to fish for in Pensecola Bay, Florida? And what type of bait to use?

What is the best type of fish to fish for in Pensecola Bay, Florida? And what type of bait to use?

I am taking a trip to Pensecola, Florida for a fishing trip. I have been to Pensecola, but never fishing there. I just purchased a 21ft center console pro master boat with a 15 hp yamaha outboard moter. I do not have fishing equipment yet. I need to know what is the best type of fish for fishing in Pensecola bay, and what type of fishing equipment (preferably combos at this point) and what type of bait. Any partial help on this issue would be greatly appriciated

Public Comments

I have fished the Pensacola area many times. Your "best bet" would be to fish the lower section of the Black Water river for Redfish, Trout, Flounder, Sheephead, and Sand Trout. Fort Pickens is great for fishing. The "ruins" of the Fishing Bridge can be productive, (esp for Sand Trout, Spec Trout, & Sheephead). Use Med/Med-heavy spinning tackle with braided 6/20 Power Pro "main line" and a 15"-20" Flurocarbon leader rating at 12-17 LB's. 1/4-1/2 OZ Jig & Live Shrimp, Jig & Mud-Minnow OR Jig & Berkley Power Bait or "Gulp" Saltwater Grubs in Pogey, Mullet, Chartruese, White/Pink, Clear, & Rootbeer/ Electric Chicken(for the Tribs of the Black Water). Another great rig is floating Pogey's under corks. Catch Pogey's with a cast net and keep them with constant fresh/new saltwater because they tend to die quickly. Using Topwater baits "Dog-walked" across the grass-flats are DEADLY for Spec Trout, Jacks, Spanish, & Reds. There are TONS of area's to fish in that region. I envy you! Fish "the tide's" and you will do fine. Hope this helps ya? Good luck! UPDATE: BEST durable long-lasting Reels- Daiwa "Black Gold" series BG15 or BG20. An inexpensive fishing rod would be an Ugly Stik "Tiger" Series Rod in 1 piece 7'. Either go to a local Tackle store to gather "info" and then buy at Sports Authority or Bass Pro Shops in Destin Florida (about 1 1/2 hours from P-cola). You will need TONS of info, might as well hit Bass Pro, they are expert's with great prices.