Fishing in Destin Florida

The Emerald Coast of Florida is a world-class fishing destination. From inland brackish marshes, to the continental shelf drop-off at “The Edge” Destin fishing offers a full range of exciting options. Inshore fishing provides classic favorites mixed with bucket list species while deep sea charters offer opportunities to catch a variety of massive pelagic fish including Tuna, Mackerel, Sailfish and Marlin.

The winter months in Destin offer great fishing as water temperatures begin to warm and the bite picks up. Inshore catches include Pompano, Trout, Redfish and Cobia while a number of species migrate into the bays to spawn. Offshore fishing is also in full swing with Wahoo, Sailfish and Tuna moving through the area during this time.

Spring offers a good chance at some of the top inshore and nearshore species with Snapper, Amberjack, Grouper and more on tap. Nearshore fishing is difficult to distinguish from offshore since these waters are so close to the reefs and drop offs. This is a prime time to target the popular Red Drum and Speckled Trout as well as the tasty and aggressive Spanish Mackerel.

Summer offers a number of popular bucket list species in the inshore and nearshore bite. Cobia are all the rage early on and the second peak season for Amberjack kicks in. The peak season for blue marlin is in full swing as well. These massive predators can reach over 1,000 pounds and are a sight to behold in the fighting chair.

Fall offers the Destin Fishing Rodeo and good chances at Bull Redfish as the weather cools and the water stays warm. Offshore trips are still in full swing with a chance at a big Tuna, Sailfish or Marlin.

Destin is unique in that its coastal waters are a fisherman’s paradise year-round. The city was founded by fishermen who took advantage of the natural resources that surround it. In the modern era, Destin has evolved into a major tourist destination as it continues to offer an abundance of activities and amenities for its visitors.

Destin is a great place to visit any time of year, but it is important to select the right season when planning your trip. Destin is a fishing hotspot year-round, but each season offers something different that makes it an exciting destination to visit.