Tortuga Wreck: A Red Snapper Haven South of Pascagoula

The Tortuga Shipwreck is a hidden gem for red snapper fishing in the Gulf of Mexico. About 15 nautical miles south of Pascagoula, you will find this artificial reef marking a historic vessel. The structure sits in about 80-90 feet of water. Red snapper are the main attraction, but you will also hook into lane snapper, vermilion snapper, and the occasional amberjack. Bottom fishing with dead bait (squid, sardines) or fresh cut bait works best. A knocker rig with a 3-5 oz weight gets you to the bottom quickly in the current. Red snapper season varies, but the Tortuga produces year-round. Summer weekends can get crowded—weekday trips offer better fishing and fewer boats.