Destin Fishing Report September 2024
Welcome back, Gulf Coast Sportsmen, to another fishing report for September 2024 in Destin, FL! It’s that time of year again—Amberjack season is open along the Gulf Coast! The season runs from September 1 through October 31, so there’s plenty of time to get out there and reel in one of these big fighters. Keep an eye on the latest regulations as bag limits and other rules may change as catches are reported. Check out FWC’s informational page for the most up-to-date details. And don’t forget, the highly anticipated Destin Fishing Rodeo is just around the corner in October!
Inshore
Inshore fishing has been a bit slow lately, but as the weather stabilizes, expect conditions to improve in the Destin area. Black Snapper have been active near Brooks and Destin Bridge, and you’ll find them around the jetties too. Using live swim baits or cut mullet is a solid strategy. Chumming near structure and jetties will help stir them up. Spanish mackerel are still being caught by trolling around the pass with Mackerel Trees. Over in the grass flats, early mornings and late evenings have been productive for trout and redfish. Live shrimp under a popping cork just above the grass beds are working well. Swim baits and soft plastics can also yield good results. There are plenty of flats around the bay in Destin, giving anglers lots of opportunities to land a bite.
Nearshore and Offshore
Offshore conditions have been unpredictable lately, with weather patterns making fishing tricky. Bottom fishing has been delivering good numbers of vermillion snapper and triggerfish using two-hook drop rigs baited with cut squid or cigar minnows. Trolling has produced some wahoo and mahi, though anglers have had to venture farther offshore to find ideal waters. As Amberjack season is now open, don’t miss your chance to book an offshore charter and hook into one of these powerful fish.
Beaches and Piers
Surf fishing in Destin has picked up as much of the seagrass has cleared out. Pompano action has been surprisingly good, with anglers having success using pompano rigs baited with sand fleas, cut shrimp, or fishbites. After dark, sharks are still active as usual. On the Okaloosa Island pier, king mackerel have been spotted at the end of the pier, with Spanish mackerel, hardtails, and ladyfish making frequent appearances. Gotcha lures remain a reliable option. Work the pier from one end to the other for the best chance of finding the action.
Tight lines, and enjoy this exciting time of year on the Gulf Coast!
