Fishing Report – Destin, Florida

The winter season brings some of the Emerald Coast’s favorite targets to the local waters, with Redfish, Speckled Trout and Flounder in abundance. On several recent ICX Destin Inshore Bay and Flats charter fishing trips, clients caught anywhere from 6 thru 20 of these hard fighting fish. Look for these fish on shallow water grass flats in the Destin Pass and around dock pilings and other structure. Baits of choice for these fish include small pinfish, croakers and finger mullet. Tight lines and slow retrieves with a float will help you get the most out of this exciting bite.

April marks the start of peak season in Destin, with tarpon cruising along the local flats for anglers to challenge. The king of inshore fish, this species will test your strength and skills to land one of these prized trophies. It’s also the time to target snapper, triggerfish and amberjack in the bay, as well as Mahi Mahi when heading offshore for a big game fish adventure.

May sees a shift in gear for Destin anglers, with snook and trout making a comeback after a slower winter season. During this month, these tasty fish can be targeted using live shrimp, croaker and pogies under a popping cork. Alternatively, artificial baits like the DOA Shrimp and Rapala Skitterwalk will produce impressive blow ups above the water’s surface.

In the nearshore Gulf, Flounder have fully returned to their typical Destin Inshore Bay and Flats haunts, with the fish being able to be found in deep holes and on broken bottom structure, such as docks and other pilings. These bottom dwellers can be caught on both natural and artificial baits, but using a smaller, lighter bait will usually get you the best results. On recent ICX Destin Inshore Charter fishing trips, clients caught Flounder ranging from 6 – 15 inches.

June is when the real heat kicks in, as both the Tarpon and the Red Snapper season open. The tarpon will be found roaming the flats at dawn and dusk, while the snapper will be biting all day long when jigged with live bait. Offshore, kingfish and mackerel are available to be reeled in when trolling for these fish.

July is the peak of the season in Destin, with a variety of fish being available to target. Inshore, snook and redfish are available when fishing the bay and shallow water flats, while the reefs offer a bounty of grouper species when bottom fishing. Offshore, a trolling trip will put you in the action for Yellowfin Tuna and Blue Marlin, with the largest Kingfish catching during this month as well.

The coveted Black Drum and Sheepshead are also available during this month, and can be targeted by using live shrimp, croaker or pinfish under a popping cork or on a spoon or topwater lure such as the DOA Skitterwalk or the Rapala Skitterwalk. The key to these fish is to be patient and work hard, and you will be rewarded for your efforts with a great fish dinner!