Pensacola fishing report for the week of October 22, 2026. Cooling water is moving fish toward the pass and the bays, and the fall flounder run is picking up steam as the full moon approaches.
What’s Hitting
Bull reds are in Pensacola Pass and along the beach, flounder are staging near the pass and bridges ahead of their offshore run, and pompano and whiting are in the surf. Speckled trout are on the grass in the bays, and Spanish and king mackerel are nearshore.
Looking ahead, the flounder run should peak over the next few weeks, with the best action on the outgoing tide at the pass.
Where to Find Them
Fish Pensacola Pass and the Fort Pickens jetties on the outgoing tide for bull reds and flounder. Walk the surf at Pensacola Beach for pompano, and drift the grass flats of Santa Rosa Sound and Escambia Bay for trout.
Tides & Conditions
With the moon building toward full, tides are strengthening and pass currents are stronger. The outgoing tide at the pass is the best window, morning and evening strongest. Check a current tide chart and wind forecast.
Tackle & Tactics
Cut mullet or menhaden on a heavy circle hook for bull reds, mud minnows or finger mullet for flounder, and a pompano jig or sand flea rig for the surf.
Use a heavier weight in the stronger pass currents, and keep a good drag for the reds.
Local Intel This Week
Public access includes the Pensacola Beach fishing pier, the Fort Pickens area, and Navarre Beach Marine Park. Check current FWC regulations and seasons before keeping any fish, especially redfish and flounder.
This Week’s Tip
Time the tide. The pass fishes best on moving water, so be there an hour before the outgoing tide peaks.
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