Fish stories fly in Alabama

Editor’s note: Today’s story is one in a series of monthly contributions from freelance journalists, supported by sponsors who share The Food Section’s goal of showcasing a range of experiences and perspectives. Learn more here about available sponsorship opportunities.

Dustin Bedgood maneuvered his 31-foot vessel into a small marina on Week’s Bay in Fairhope, Alabama after 24 hours off shore. A couple dozen fishing rods stuck out of consoles like porcupine quills and, soon, he piled enormous red snappers and almaco jacks into sorted piles on the floor. Without any gloves, Bedgood and a helper cut through the snappers’ spiky bellies, scooping out their guts.