Fall is one of the most exciting and productive seasons for fishing in Navarre. As the summer heat fades and the Gulf waters begin to cool, fish become more active, migrations kick into gear, and anglers of all experience levels can enjoy some of the best action of the year. Whether you prefer casting from the surf, dropping a line from the pier, or heading out on a kayak or boat, fall in Navarre is full of opportunity.
Here’s what’s biting and when during the autumn months on Navarre Beach.
Why Fall Is a Prime Fishing Season in Navarre
Several factors make fall exceptional for fishing:
- Cooling water temperatures trigger feeding frenzies.
- Migratory species begin moving along the Gulf Coast.
- Reduced crowds mean more space on the pier and less pressure on fish.
- Stable weather patterns typically create calmer seas.
For many locals, fall marks the start of their favorite fishing window.
What’s Biting in September
As summer transitions into fall, water temperatures are still warm, but fish are becoming more active.
Species to target:
Spanish Mackerel
Plenty of fast-moving schools travel along the beach and pier. Great for artificial lures and shiny spoons.
King Mackerel
Early fall is prime time for kings from the pier and trolling boats.
Pompano
Feeding picks up again near the surf zone after slowing during peak heat.
Speckled Trout & Redfish (Inshore)
Grass flats and sound-side channels start to come alive as temperatures drop.
Best fishing styles:
- Pier fishing with Got-Cha plugs
- Surf fishing with sand fleas or shrimp
- Early morning inshore casting
What’s Biting in October
This is often considered the best month for fall fishing in Navarre.
Species to target:
Redfish (Red Drum)
Fall brings great numbers and sometimes trophy-sized bulls near the pier and in the surf.
Flounder
Migration peaks, making them common around structure, jetties, and drop-offs.
Pompano
Numbers increase as water cools, light tackle heaven.
Black Drum
Frequently caught near bridge pilings and deeper channels.
Sheepshead
Start showing up more consistently near structure.
Why October is special:
Water temps sit in the “sweet spot” for a wide range of species.
What’s Biting in November
Late fall offers cooler temps, fewer tourists, and surprisingly productive fishing.
Species to target:
Whiting
Reliable surf catch and great table fare.
Redfish
Still strong, especially on overcast days or around the pier.
Sheepshead
Increasing numbers as winter approaches.
Black Drum
Begin transitioning to their winter patterns but still active.
Speckled Trout
Excellent in the Sound and near grass flats on calm mornings.
What changes in November?
- Baitfish move out
- Winds shift
- Cooler fronts create new feeding activity
This is the time for patient anglers who appreciate a quieter shoreline.
Best Places to Fish in Navarre During Fall
Navarre Beach Fishing Pier
A can’t-miss spot year-round, but especially good in fall for kings, Spanish, reds, and the occasional tarpon earlier in the season.
Surf Fishing Along Navarre Beach
Look for deeper troughs, rips, and cuts. Fall surf often produces big reds and pompano.
Santa Rosa Sound
A fall favorite for trout, redfish, flounder, and sheepshead, especially around docks, grass flats, and bridges.
Gulf Islands National Seashore
Less pressure + long, quiet stretches = ideal for surf anglers targeting pompano, whiting, and reds.
Best Baits & Tackle for Fall Fishing
Natural Baits:
- Sand fleas
- Fresh shrimp
- Cut mullet
- Live finger mullet
- Fiddler crabs (for sheepshead)
Artificial Lures:
- Silver spoons (for mackerel)
- Got-Cha plugs (pier kings & Spanish)
- Soft plastics on jig heads (trout & reds)
- Pompano jigs
- Bucktail jigs near the pier
Light tackle works wonders, but keep heavier gear for kings or bull reds.
Tips for Successful Fall Fishing in Navarre
- Check the wind, east or northeast winds often bring cleaner surf.
- Fish at sunrise for the best bite windows.
- Bring a cast net to find live bait if you’re inshore.
- Watch for birds diving, a sure sign of baitfish and predator activity.
- Check weather and tides, fronts can change patterns quickly.
Fall is dynamic, so staying flexible pays off.
Final Thoughts: Fall Fishing Shines in Navarre
Whether you’re casting from the surf or testing your luck on the Navarre Beach Pier, fall brings some of the most rewarding fishing opportunities of the year. The combination of active species, pleasant weather, and fewer crowds creates perfect conditions for both seasoned anglers and beginners.
If you’re planning a trip to Navarre, autumn is one of the best times to bring your rod.
