Fishing in Destin-Fort Walton Beach

Welcome to the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” Destin, Florida! With fishing for every skill level, everyone is an angler while in Destin-Fort Walton Beach. The whole family can try their luck for native species on paddleboards, charter trips, fishing piers or surf fishing along the sugar white sand.

Charter Trips

Destin Harbor has the largest charter fishing fleet in the country, so you’re guaranteed to find a great ride out into the deep waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Visitors can choose smaller charter boats or bigger party boats that carry up to 60 people. Try bottom fishing for Red Snappers, Groupers and Amberjacks, or troll for King Mackerels and Tunas (inshore), or Blue Marlins and Sailfish (offshore). When you reach the docks with your catch, take fresh fillets to participating Gulf-to-Table restaurants for chefs to cook your catch to order. Find Gulf-to-Table restaurants.

Fishing Piers

The Island Fishing Pier provides incredible views and awesome fishing opportunities for experts and beginners. Equipment is available for rent, or you can bring your own! As an added benefit for those wishing to try out fishing for the first time: no Florida fishing license is required. The pier stretches over 1,200 feet into the Gulf of Mexico, so walkers and anglers can look for dolphins and sea turtles while they fish. Ladyfish, Spanish Mackerel, Black Snapper, Whiting, Sailfish, Yellowtails and so much more have been caught from the pier.

Surf Fishing

Fishing from the beach can be one of the best ways to fish with family. Spring is the best time to catch Pompano, which usually range from 2-3 pounds. In the fall, look out for Redfish, which are delicious (though they must be between 18 and 27 inches long to keep). In the winter, try for Whiting, which are usually found close to shore. Anglers can also try for Hard Tails, Bluefish, Ladyfish, Black Drum, catfish and even rays.