14 Best Fishing Charters in Destin (Complete Breakdown)

Destin, Florida, often called the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” offers some of the best fishing experiences in the United States. Here are several benefits of booking a fishing charter in Destin:

1. Expert Guidance: Fishing charters are typically led by experienced captains and crew members who know the local waters like the back of their hand. They can guide you to the best fishing spots and advise on catching various types of fish.
2. Equipment Provided: Most fishing charters provide all the fishing gear you need, including rods, reels, bait, and tackle. This is especially beneficial for tourists or those who do not have their own equipment.
3. Learning Opportunity: Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a novice, a charter trip can be a fantastic learning experience. The crew can teach you different fishing techniques like bottom, trolling, or fly fishing.
4. Variety of Fish: Destin is known for its diverse marine life. Depending on the season, you can catch a wide variety of fish, including red snapper, grouper, amberjack, king mackerel, and even sharks.
5. Safety: Fishing charters prioritize your safety. They have life jackets, radios, first-aid kits, and other safety equipment. The crew is trained to handle any situation that may arise while at sea.
6. Convenience: With a charter, you don’t need to worry about fueling or docking the boat, cleaning the fish, or other logistical considerations. You can focus purely on the fishing experience.
7. Enjoyment: A fishing charter isn’t just about fishing. It’s also about enjoying a day on the water, the beautiful views, and sharing a great experience with friends or family.
8. Memories: A fishing charter in Destin can provide unforgettable memories. There’s nothing quite like the thrill of reeling in a big catch.

So, whether you’re a seasoned fisherman looking for a big catch or a family looking for a fun and educational outing, a fishing charter in Destin has much to offer.

14 Featured Fishing Charters in Destin

All of these fishing charters are among the best in the Destin area. This is not an exhaustive list and your fishing charter is not listed below, I do apologize in advance.

1. Into The Blue Fishing Charter (Destin)

Brief Description: “Into The Blue” is a premier private charter yacht in Destin, Florida. Captain Nino Bright and his experienced, child-friendly team provide a professional fishing experience for guests of all ages and skill levels. The team prides itself on ensuring guests have an unforgettable, action-packed trip.

Target Species: The charter specializes in a variety of species, including but not limited to Red Snapper, Mahi Mahi, Amberjack, Barracuda, Cobia, King Mackerel, Swordfish, Spanish Mackerel, Mangrove Snapper, Vermillion Snapper, and Grouper.

Best Fishing Times: While the exact best fishing times aren’t specified, the fact that they fish offshore, on wrecks, and reefs implies they offer trips throughout the year, taking advantage of the various seasonal fish populations.

Unique Features:

• The charter operates a 46’ Bertram yacht, powered by twin 800 HP Detroit Diesel engines, providing comfortable fishing space for up to six guests. The yacht was upgraded in 2016 and is equipped with modern fishing and navigational equipment.
• Creature comforts include an air-conditioned interior, toilet, shower, kitchen, bed, multimedia system, and a TV.
• The boat has a flybridge for better fish spotting, an ice-box for keeping the catch fresh, and downriggers for a professional fishing experience.
• The charter package includes fishing licenses, rods, reels, tackle, live bait, and lures. The first mate will also clean and fillet any kept catches at the end of the trip.

Trip Rates: These rates are current as of 7/2023. These are subject to change.

• 4-hour trip (private tour) $1188; 5-hour trip (private tour) $1485, 6-hour trip (private tour) $1782; 8-hour trip (private tour) $2376; 10-hour trip (private tour) $2970; 12-hour trip (private tour) $3564

To read customer reviews, see fishing pictures, and book a trip with Into The Blue Fishing Charter, click here to see the charter’s listing.

2. King of Kings Charters (Destin)

Brief Description: Experience a family-friendly fishing trip in the “world’s luckiest fishing village” with King of Kings Charters. Captain Jayson prides himself on sharing his local knowledge, particularly with younger anglers. Offering a range of trips from calm inshore excursions to adrenaline-pumping Shark trips, King of Kings Charters promises an unforgettable day out on the waters of Destin.

Target Species: Expect to encounter King and Spanish Mackerel, Bonita, various Snapper species, and other bottom fish. Adventurous guests can also partake in Shark trips for an exciting challenge.

Best Fishing Times: Fishing trips are offered year-round, with the best times depending on the targeted species.

Unique Features:

• Specializes in family-friendly fishing trips, and Captain Jayson, with a family of his own, is particularly adept at introducing kids to the joys of fishing.
• Operates a spacious 35’ JC boat, powered by a 450 HP Cummins engine, ensuring ample room for up to six guests to fish comfortably. The boat is equipped with key navigational equipment, including GPS and fishfinder, and also features a toilet for convenience.
• Provides fishing licenses, high-quality gear, tackle, and bait. Upon returning to shore, Captain Jayson will clean and fillet your catch.
• Offers a range of fishing experiences, from hunting a variety of Snapper species and other bottom fish to engaging in thrilling Shark trips.
• Guests only need to bring their food and drinks.

Trip Rates: These rates are current as of 7/2023. These are subject to change.

• 4-hour trip (private tour) $960; 5-hour trip (private tour) $1200; 6-hour trip (private tour) $1440; 8-hour trip (private tour) $1920; 10-hour trip (private tour) $2400

To read customer reviews, see fishing pictures, and book a trip with King of Kings Charters, click here to see the charter’s listing.

3. Lonestar Fishing Charters (Destin)

Brief Description: Lonestar Fishing Charters, owned and operated by Captain Bobby Marek, provides unforgettable nearshore, offshore, and wreck fishing trips in Destin, Florida. With his vast experience and passion for the sea, Captain Bobby ensures a fun and productive trip for all guests.

Target Species: Guests can expect to catch a variety of species including Grouper, Snapper, Mackerel, Gray Triggerfish, Amberjack, and even Bull Shark.

Best Fishing Times: The charter operates year-round, taking advantage of Destin’s waters’ rich, seasonal marine life.

Unique Features:

• The charter operates a 33’ Cape Horn center console with twin 300 HP Yamaha engines and top-tier Garmin GPS, fishfinder, radar navigation technology, and a VHF radio.
• A unique feature of this charter is the seakeeper, a gyrostabilizer that counterbalances the boat and prevents rocking, significantly reducing chances of seasickness.
• The boat is equipped with a multimedia system, livewell, outriggers, and downriggers, and a first mate is available upon request.
• All fishing gear, lures, catch cleaning, and fishing licenses are included in the package.

Trip Rates: These rates are current as of 7/2023. These are subject to change.

• 4-hour trip (private tour) $810-846; 5-hour trip (private tour) $1013-1058; 6-hour trip (private tour) $1215-1260; 8-hour trip (private tour) $1764

To read customer reviews, see fishing pictures, and book a trip with Lonestar Fishing Charters, click here to see the charter’s listing.

4. Reel Way Fishing Charters (Pensacola Beach)

Brief Description: Reel Way Fishing Charters, operated by Captain Kenny Way, offers inshore and nearshore fishing adventures from the beautiful Pensacola Beach in Florida. Enjoy an exhilarating day out on the water as you target a variety of local species.

Target Species: Fishing with Captain Kenny offers opportunities to target Redfish, Spanish Mackerel, Cobia, Amberjack, Jack Crevalle, Snappers, Kingfish, and Sharks.

Best Fishing Times: The charter operates year-round, taking advantage of the rich, seasonal species in Pensacola’s waters. The exact best times would depend on the specific species you are targeting.

Unique Features:

• The charter operates a versatile 27 ft Ameracat center console powered by twin 150 HP Mercury engines. Equipped with a trolling motor, an anchoring system, and an array of electronics and safety gear, the boat is perfectly set up for a variety of fishing adventures.
• The boat features a T-Top for shade and ample storage for personal belongings.
• Captain Kenny provides top-quality rods and reels by well-known brands Penn and Shimano, as well as a variety of artificial lures and live bait caught before the trip. Fly fishing equipment can also be provided upon request.
• All tackle, bait, lures, and fishing licenses are included in the trip price. The captain also offers cleaning and filleting services for any fish you wish to take home.

Trip Rates: These rates are current as of 7/2023. These are subject to change.

• 4-hour trip (private tour) $600; 5-hour trip (private tour) $800; 6-hour trip (private tour) $1000

To read customer reviews, see fishing pictures, and book a trip with Reel Way Fishing Charters, click here to see the charter’s listing.

5. All Out Fishing Charters (Fort Walton Beach)

Brief Description: Captains Cody Hankins and Graham’s All Out Fishing Charters provide memorable fishing experiences from Destin/Fort Walton Beach, Florida. Adept at catering to both seasoned anglers and families with children, the captains ensure every trip is engaging and fruitful.

Target Species: You can look forward to catching several species including Mahi Mahi, Bonito, Shark, Snapper, Grouper, and Kingfish, through techniques such as trolling and bottom fishing using light and heavy tackle.

Best Fishing Times: The charter operates year-round, as different species are abundant in various seasons in the offshore waters of Destin/Fort Walton Beach.

Unique Features:

• All Out Fishing Charters operate a 24’ Sea Hunt center console boat, capable of carrying up to 5 guests. It features a 250 HP Yamaha engine, advanced GPS, fishfinder, and radio technology for precise navigation.
• The boat is equipped with a wireless trolling motor, ice-box, and livewell.
• The captain provides fishing gear, bait, licenses, and catch cleaning. Just bring your snacks and drinks, and you’re set for an incredible fishing adventure.

Trip Rates: These rates are current as of 7/2023. These are subject to change.

• 4-hour trip (private tour) $700; 6-hour trip (private tour) $1000

To read customer reviews, see fishing pictures, and book a trip with All Out Fishing Charters, click here to see the charter’s listing.

6. Maximus Fishing Fun (Destin)

Brief Description: Maximus Fishing Fun is a premier charter offering high-speed, deep sea fishing experiences in the Gulf of Mexico. Known for their unique “NO FISH, NO PAY GUARANTEE,” Captains Justin and Rob lead nearly 300 charters a year with an impressive record.

Target Species: On a trip with Maximus Fishing Fun, anglers can expect to encounter species such as Red Snapper, Amberjack, Grouper, Mahi Mahi, Marlin, Sailfish, Cobia, and Tuna.

Best Fishing Times: The charter operates year-round, utilizing Destin’s rich, seasonal marine life.

Unique Features:

• The ‘offshore battlewagon’, a Worldcat 330E charter boat, powered by twin 300 HP Suzuki engines, offers speed, comfort, and freedom on board, including a restroom.
• Their unique offering is the “No fish, No pay guarantee,” showcasing their confidence in ensuring customers catch fish.
• Each trip starts with action-packed bait fishing, which is often a highlight for kids.
• Maximus is notably faster than most boats in the Destin fleet, reaching deep waters in half the time or less.
• The team prioritizes guests’ experience over fuel cost, traveling farther than any boat on 4 and 5-hour trips.

Trip Rates: These rates are current as of 7/2023. These are subject to change.

• 5-hour trip (private tour) $1250; 6-hour trip (private tour) $1500; 8-hour trip (private tour) $2000; 10-hour trip (private tour) $2500; 12-hour trip (private tour) $3000; 16-hour trip (private tour) $4000

To read customer reviews, see fishing pictures, and book a trip with Maximus Fishing Fun, click here to see the charter’s listing.

7. 30A Bay Guide Service (Santa Rosa Beach)

Brief Description: 30A Bay Guide Service offers a fun, relaxed inshore fishing experience in the flats and backcountry of Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. Captain Marvin Glasgow is an experienced angler eager to guide up to 4 guests on a restored 22’ Cape Horn bay boat, powered by a 225 HP Honda engine.

Target Species: Guests can expect to catch species such as Jack Crevalle, Tarpon, Spotted Seatrout, Black Drum, and Flounder.

Best Fishing Times: The charter operates year-round, taking advantage of the rich species diversity in the Santa Rosa Beach area.

Unique Features:

• The restored Cape Horn bay boat is equipped with modern navigation technology including GPS, fishfinder, radio systems, a wireless trolling motor, livewell, and ice-box.
• The charter is family-friendly and welcomes kids, making it suitable for a family outing.
• The service is all-inclusive, offering all the fishing gear, licenses, snacks, drinks, and even catch cleaning.
• Guests have the option to either keep their catch or release it back into the water.

Trip Rates: These rates are current as of 7/2023. These are subject to change.

• 2-hour trip (private tour) $360; 3-hour trip (private tour) $540; 4-hour trip (private tour) $630; 5-hour trip (private tour) $675

To read customer reviews, see fishing pictures, and book a trip with 30A Bay Guide Service, click here to see the charter’s listing.

8. Vengeance Charters (Destin)

Brief Description: Vengeance Charters in Destin, Florida, offers an unforgettable fishing experience led by the Marlin-chasing expert, Captain Matthew Pearson. His 48’ G&S sport fisher, powered by twin 600 HP Fiat engines, can comfortably accommodate up to 6 guests, ensuring a thrilling and comfortable fishing adventure.

Target Species: The charter targets a diverse array of species. Nearshore trips focus on various Grouper and Snapper species, while offshore trips offer the chance to catch Marlin, Sailfish, Mahi Mahi, King Mackerel, and Wahoo.

Best Fishing Times: As a year-round charter, the best fishing times depend on the targeted species. However, Destin is often touted as the “luckiest fishing village,” promising abundant catches throughout the year.

Unique Features:

• The 48’ G&S sport fisher is equipped with outriggers, a flybridge, and comprehensive fishing equipment, ensuring a successful fishing venture.
• The boat also ensures comfort, with a private toilet and ample seating.
• The friendly first mate assists with all needs, including catch cleaning post-trip (tips appreciated).
• The charter offers a variety of angling expeditions, providing flexibility based on guest preferences and targeted species.
• Vengeance Charters provides family-friendly fishing experiences, welcoming both families and groups of angling friends.

Trip Rates: These rates are current as of 7/2023. These are subject to change.

• 4-hour trip (private tour) $1200; 5-hour trip (private tour) $1500; 6-hour trip (private tour) $1800; 8-hour trip (private tour) $2400; 10-hour trip (private tour) $3000; 12-hour trip (private tour) $3600; 18-hour trip (private tour) $5400; 24-hour trip (private tour) $7200

To read customer reviews, see fishing pictures, and book a trip with Vengeance Charters, click here to see the charter’s listing.

9. Charter Boat Starfire (Destin)

Brief Description: Charter Boat Starfire, located in Destin, Florida, offers customized fishing experiences under the guidance of Capt. Bill. Depending on the trip duration, which can range from 3 to 8 hours, and species targeted, you’ll employ techniques like bottom fishing and trolling. The service focuses on delivering an enjoyable experience for all, including children.

Target Species: Charter Boat Starfire offers the opportunity to fish for a wide range of species including Snapper, King Mackerel, Amberjack, Cobia, Grouper, and Wahoo, depending on the season and weather.

Best Fishing Times: Being a year-round fishing charter, the best times to fish often depend on the specific species you’re targeting.

Unique Features:

• The 38’ Silverton boat used for charters is equipped with a toilet, air conditioning, and an ice box, accommodating up to 6 anglers.
• Fishing gear, licenses, and bait are all included in the price of your trip.
• All catches can be kept, provided it is legal to do so.
• A first mate is onboard to provide assistance as needed, with tips for excellent service always appreciated.
• The charter is child-friendly, making it a great choice for a fun family fishing adventure.

Trip Rates: These rates are current as of 7/2023. These are subject to change.

• 3-hour trip (private tour) $630; 4-hour trip (private tour) $855; 6-hour trip (private tour) $1260; 8-hour trip (private tour) $1710

To read customer reviews, see fishing pictures, and book a trip with Charter Boat Starfire, click here to see the charter’s listing.

10. Backcountry Outfitters Destin (Destin)

Brief Description: Operating in the bountiful offshore waters of the Gulf, Captain Jeremy’s charter offers an exciting and memorable sportfishing experience. His 31’ Pursuit cruiser, powered by twin 250 HP Yamaha engines, is a comfortable and efficient fishing machine that gets you to the fishing grounds quickly, maximizing your time with lines in the water.

Target Species: With Captain Jeremy, expect to encounter a wide variety of species, including Mahi Mahi, Red Snapper, King Mackerel, Gray Triggerfish, Yellowfin Tuna, and various species of Shark, with Mako being particularly common.

Best Fishing Times: While this area offers year-round fishing, the best times can vary depending on the species targeted.

Unique Features:

• High-speed cruiser, reaching up to 45 knots, enables swift travel to prime fishing spots, offering more fishing time.
• Use of light and heavy tackle, including trusted brands like Shimano, Penn, and Daiwa.
• Both purchased and caught live bait can be used during the trip, offering flexibility based on your preferences.
• Captain Jeremy cleans the catch at the end of the trip, preparing your catch for you to take home.
• Fishing licenses are included in the charter, reducing the hassle for guests.
• Water is provided onboard. Guests are encouraged to bring soft drinks and food (no glass bottles), tailoring the experience to their liking.
• Captain Jeremy is a seasoned guide with proven expertise in the local waters, offering guests a rewarding sportfishing challenge.

Trip Rates: These rates are current as of 7/2023. These are subject to change.

• 4-hour trip (private tour) $900; 5-hour trip (private tour) $1035; 6-hour trip (private tour) $1242; 8-hour trip (private tour) $1656; 10-hour trip (private tour) $1980

To read customer reviews, see fishing pictures, and book a trip with Backcountry Outfitters Destin, click here to see the charter’s listing.

11. Hound Dog Fishing Charters (Destin)

Brief Description: Hound Dog Fishing Charters, run by Destin local Captain Taylor, provides a family-friendly fishing experience in a region dubbed the world’s luckiest fishing destination. The charter operates a spacious 40’ Infinity sportfishing vessel, the Hound Dog, equipped with modern comforts, including air conditioning and a sound system, perfect for families.

Target Species: Depending on the season and the length of your trip, you can expect to target a variety of species including Grouper, Snapper, Amberjack, Kingfish, Triggerfish, Shark, and many more.

Best Fishing Times: While this area offers year-round fishing, the best times can vary depending on the species targeted.

Unique Features:

• Techniques like trolling, bottom fishing, jigging, and spinning are employed for a versatile fishing experience.
• A spacious and comfortable vessel with modern amenities like air conditioning and a Bluetooth sound system.
• Provides all necessary fishing gear, including rods, reels, and tackle.
• Inclusive of fishing licenses, live bait (when available), ice, and fuel.
• The crew helps clean, fillet, and bag your catch for you to take home.
• A highly family and kid-friendly service, with the captain and crew being patient and ready to help younger anglers.
• Captain Taylor is a local with extensive knowledge and passion for the region’s fishing.

Trip Rates: These rates are current as of 7/2023. These are subject to change.

• 4-hour trip (private tour) $1080; 6-hour trip (private tour) $1620; 8-hour trip (private tour) $2160; 10-hour trip (private tour) $2700; 12-hour trip (private tour) $3240

To read customer reviews, see fishing pictures, and book a trip with Hound Dog Fishing Charters, click here to see the charter’s listing.

12. Nelson Guide Company (Destin)

Brief Description: Nelson Guide Company, guided by Captain Si, offers affordable fishing adventures focusing on inshore bay fishing and nearshore spots in the Gulf. The company provides family-friendly trips, including a special package for young anglers. You will be fishing aboard a 24’ custom-built Carolina Skiff that accommodates up to 6 anglers and allows you to reach extremely shallow spots as well as deeper nearshore ones.

Target Species: You can expect to catch a variety of species such as Red Snapper, Trout, Redfish, Flounder, Kingfish, Spanish Mackerel, and many more.

Best Fishing Times: As the area offers year-round fishing, the best times can vary depending on the species targeted.

Unique Features:

• Inshore and nearshore fishing on a versatile custom-built Carolina Skiff.
• Trips are customizable according to your preferences and skill level, making it an enjoyable experience for everyone.
• Encourages catch and release, but you are allowed to keep a few specimens for dinner which the captain will clean and fillet for you after the trip.
• Includes all fishing equipment and licenses in the price.
• Offers a special package for young anglers, ensuring a family-friendly fishing experience.
• Captain Si is a local, providing a true local’s fishing experience.
• Budget-friendly pricing, providing great value for the experience.

Trip Rates: These rates are current as of 7/2023. These are subject to change.

• 3-hour trip (private tour) $540; 4-hour trip (private tour) $720-900; 6-hour trip (private tour) $1080

To read customer reviews, see fishing pictures, and book a trip with Nelson Guide Company, click here to see the charter’s listing.

13. Charter Boat Rewind (Destin)

Brief Description: Join Charter Boat Rewind, captained by the 2015 Destin Fishing Rodeo Captain of the Year, Reid Phillips. Offering a range of charters for up to 6 anglers, from 4-hour inshore family fun days to full-day offshore fishing adventures, there’s something to suit every fishing enthusiast. You’ll be aboard the Rewind, a classic, updated 46’ Egg Harbor sportfishing boat, featuring an air-conditioned cabin, comfortable seating, SiriusXM music, bathroom facilities, and overnight berths.

Target Species: Depending on the trip, you can go fishing for a variety of inshore, offshore, and bottom-dwelling reef fish. These include Red Snapper, Mingo, White Snapper, Gag, Black and Goliath Grouper, Amberjack, Jack Crevalle, Cobia, and King Mackerel. Offshore, you can target larger species like Sailfish, Marlin, Tuna, Wahoo, and Mahi Mahi.

Best Fishing Times: As the area offers year-round fishing, the best times can vary depending on the species targeted.

Unique Features:

• A variety of charter options from a 4-hour inshore family fun day to a full day of offshore fishing adventures.
• Aboard a classic, updated 46’ Egg Harbor sportfishing boat with modern amenities including an air-conditioned cabin, comfortable seating, SiriusXM music, bathroom facilities, and overnight berths.
• The boat is equipped with a refrigerator, microwave, and Keurig machine for the coffee lovers.
• Fishing equipment includes outriggers for trolling, a livewell for bait, an icebox for the catch, and GPS and fishfinder technologies.
• The charter provides rods, reels, tackle, bait, ice, a fishing license, and a fish cleaning and processing service.
• Children are welcome to join, making it a family-friendly fishing adventure.

Trip Rates: These rates are current as of 7/2023. These are subject to change.

• 4-hour trip (private tour) $1200; 5-hour trip (private tour) $1500; 6-hour trip (private tour) $1800; 8-hour trip (private tour) $2400; 10-hour trip (private tour) $3000; 12-hour trip (private tour) $3600

To read customer reviews, see fishing pictures, and book a trip with Charter Boat Rewind, click here to see the charter’s listing.

14. Charter Boat Seahorse (Destin)

Brief Description: Join Captain Dean Cox on Charter Boat Seahorse for an exciting range of fishing trips, tailored to your needs. From family-friendly four-hour trips to 50+ miles long adventures, Seahorse has something for everyone. The Seahorse is a spacious 48’ custom G&S Sport Fisherman, able to accommodate up to 16 guests and is fitted with all the necessary equipment for a world-class fishing experience.

Target Species: Captain Dean Cox offers trips targeting a variety of species, depending on the chosen trip length and time of year. These may include local reef species, pelagic species, and game fish.

Best Fishing Times: Fishing trips are offered year-round, with the best times depending on the targeted species.

Unique Features:

• Offers one of the widest ranges of trips in town, from short four-hour trips perfect for families and kids, to long, challenging journeys for seasoned anglers.
• Seahorse is a 48’ custom G&S Sport Fisherman, featuring modern electronics, outriggers, downriggers, a livewell, and high-quality equipment from brands like Penn and Shimano.
• Comfortable amenities onboard, including an air-conditioned interior with a full head and a galley, complete with a microwave oven and a micro-fridge, a salon with a stereo and flat-screen TV.
• Captain Dean Cox often stocks up on fresh live bait each morning near the shore. If he has to buy live bait, he is willing to cover 50% of the cost.
• A professional crew dedicated to ensuring your trip is memorable, whether you’re a seasoned angler, a large company group, or a small party.
• Note: gratuity for the crew is not included in the price.

Trip Rates: These rates are current as of 7/2023. These are subject to change.

• 4-hour trip (private tour) $1400; 6-hour trip (private tour) $2100; 8-hour trip (private tour) $2800; 10-hour trip (private tour) $3500; 12-hour trip (private tour) $4200; 14-hour trip (private tour) $4900

To read customer reviews, see fishing pictures, and book a trip with Charter Boat Seahorse, click here to see the charter’s listing.

Best Times to Fish in Destin

Red Snapper: Red snapper season can vary based on local regulations but is typically open in the summer months of June and July.

Cobia: The best time to catch Cobia is in the spring, particularly March and April when they migrate through the area.

King Mackerel (Kingfish): These are available most of the year but are especially plentiful from March through November.

Amberjack: These are often caught in late spring and early fall, specifically May and September through November.

Grouper: You can catch different species of grouper all year, but they are more plentiful in the cooler months.

Redfish (Red Drum): They can be caught year-round in the bay, but fall is the most popular season.

Spanish Mackerel: The best time to fish for Spanish Mackerel is in the spring and fall.

Sheepshead: They can be found in the area from late winter through early spring, specifically February through April.

Mahi Mahi (Dorado): Mahi Mahi are most plentiful during the summer months, particularly May through August.

Wahoo: The peak season for Wahoo is in the winter, especially in November and December.

Yellowfin Tuna: These are mostly caught in the late fall and winter months.

Speckled Trout: You can catch Speckled Trout year-round in the bay, but spring and fall are the best times.

Tarpon: Tarpon are usually caught in the summer months, particularly from May through July.

Sailfish: The best time to fish for Sailfish is during the summer months, from May through August.

Pompano: They’re most commonly caught in the spring and fall, specifically April through June and September through November.

What to Look for in a Fishing Charter

When looking for a fishing charter in Destin, consider the following factors:

1. Type of Fishing: Decide whether you want inshore, offshore, deep sea, or reef fishing, as charters specialize in different types.
2. Experience Level: Some charters cater to beginners or families with young children, while others are suited for experienced anglers.
3. Charter Size: Determine the size of your group and choose a charter that can comfortably accommodate you all.
4. Captain’s Experience: An experienced, knowledgeable captain increases your chances of a successful trip.
5. License and Equipment: Make sure the charter includes fishing licenses and equipment in the trip cost.
6. Reviews and Reputation: Look for charters with positive reviews and a good reputation in the local community.
7. Price and Duration: Check the cost and length of the trip to ensure they fit your budget and schedule.
8. Catch Policies: Some charters allow you to keep your catch, others insist on catch and release. Make sure their policy aligns with your preferences.

Book a Trip Today

Don’t miss out on the fishing adventure of a lifetime. Destin’s waters are teeming with diverse sportfish just waiting to be caught. Whether you’re an expert angler or a fishing newbie, our experienced charter captains are ready to guide you to the prime spots for an unforgettable catch. Offering family-friendly experiences and expert knowledge, our charters cater to everyone’s needs.

Secure your spot on one of our premier fishing charters today, and get ready to reel in your biggest catch yet! So why wait? Adventure calls! Book your trip today and experience the thrill of Destin fishing firsthand.

For a complete breakdown of the best times to fish in Destin, check out this guide. For a complete breakdown of the average fishing charter cost in Destin, check out this guide. For a complete breakdown of the quality of fishing in Destin, check out this guide.