More than a hot spot on the Alabama Bass Trail, the more than 20,000 acres of the Mobile-Tensaw River Delta are known as one of the most diverse biospheres in the country. In fact, it was named a national Landmark in 1974. Second in size only to the Mississippi River Delta, this delta is also known far and wide for the fertile fishing grounds it holds amid its acres of rivers, streams, swamps and marshlands. While it may get chilly in winter, the fishing stays hot all year long.

In the winter months, saltwater fish swim up into the salt water at the southern tip of Alabama. Speckled trout, redfish, flounder and sheepshead are known to be pushing up from Mobile Bay into the delta. This a prime opportunity for anglers who want to try a bit of saltwater fishing.

Fishing the delta doesn’t require a saltwater boat or big gear. Bass boats or canoes and kayaks work just fine. Fishing from docks and bridges is also a popular way to go. For gear, all you need is live shrimp and a spinning reel with light tackle. Finding the fish is the challenge, but locals know to look for jumping mullet. Gamefish tend to be in the same spots.

Experts say the fish move up into the delta as rains dwindle in autumn, which allows salinity to rise in the rivers. The baitfish and shrimp follow the rising salinity up the rivers, and the trout, reds, flounder and sheepshead follow the bait. When cold fronts come in and chill the open waters of Mobile Bay, the deep holes in the protected rivers are even more appealing. These fish remain in the rivers until March, when spring temperatures ease back in.

Of course, this delta is heaven for fishermen all year long, but winter brings more variety than at any other time of year. Why wait ‘til spring? It’s a fine time to head south on the Alabama Bass Trail and enjoy the diversity of the amazing Mobile-Tensaw River Delta.