Pensacola Fishing Report – Red Snapper, Vermilion Snapper, Lane Snapper, Red Porgy, Sand Tilefish, Almaco Jack & Triggerfish | Week Ending 07/05/2026 – State and Federal Waters
Deep Sea and Offshore Fishing Charter Pensacola
What a difference a few days can make offshore. We were able to get offshore six times this week, taking everyone from a single angler to a family of four. The Gulf rewarded us with some outstanding weather, especially on July 4th and 5th. Sea conditions were about as good as they get, allowing us to comfortably cruise at more than 30 mph both offshore and back to the pass. A little current was present, but not enough to require dramatically heavier tackle to keep our baits and jigs on the bottom.
Our most productive trip of the week was a 6-hour federal waters charter that took us approximately 32 miles offshore from Pensacola Pass. Fishing beyond state waters continues to pay off, and this trip was a perfect example.
We caught fish using both natural bait and slow pitch jigs. About halfway through the trip our customer made the switch to slow pitch jigging exclusively, and the fish certainly approved. The variety of species we landed made for an outstanding day on the water.
Our catch included:
- Amberjack (largest measured 35 inches)
- Red Snapper
- Vermilion Snapper
- Lane Snapper
- Triggerfish
- Almaco Jack
- Sand Tilefish
- Red Porgy
- Atlantic Bonito
- Four Bobos (Little Tunny / False Albacore)
Of course, it wouldn’t be Gulf fishing without a few interruptions. We lost a couple of fish to sharks, and a pod of dolphins reminded us why fishermen have a love-hate relationship with them. They were beautiful to watch—but they also helped themselves to a few of our hooked fish before we could get them to the boat.
The Red Snapper bite continues to be challenging, something we’re hearing from just about every charter captain we talk with along the Gulf Coast. Fortunately, Vermilion Snapper have remained dependable, Triggerfish continue to provide plenty of action, and Amberjack have been consistently willing to bite.
One trend we’ve continued to see is that fishing pressure drops significantly once you cross into federal waters. While state waters receive heavy fishing pressure throughout the season, many of our best catches have come from areas farther offshore where the fish simply don’t see as many boats.
If you’re deciding between trip lengths, this week’s fishing reinforced what we’ve believed all season: if your schedule allows, book the 6-hour charter. That extra time lets us reach less-pressured federal waters, target a wider variety of species, and consistently gives our customers the best opportunity for an exceptional day of offshore fishing.
We look forward to seeing you on the water!
– Captain Paul & Captain Eric
Double D Fishing Charters
Inshore Fishing Charter Pensacola
Nothing to report inshore for the week as we made no trips.
To see pictures of some of our catches, visit our social media pages:
