Inshore fishing in Destin is nothing short of spectacular. You have Choctawhatchee Bay and the Gulf of Mexico just moments away, which means you have Florida’s best sportfishing at your fingertips. Come fish the shallow waters of the bay or try the open seas a few miles from the Emerald Coast. There will be an endless supply of game fish no matter where you decide to go. Of course, why choose just one when you can easily experience both?

What you can catch

You can catch a wide variety of fish swimming close to the Destin coast, from common inshore fish like Redfish and Speckled Trout to the rare Blackfin Tuna. Fishing here gives you a unique advantage of catching many fish that aren’t normally caught while fishing inshore. In addition to Permit, Tarpon, Flounder, and Sheepshead, you can also find many Grouper, Snapper and Cobia.

How to Fish

You can usually count on using light tackle while fishing inshore in Destin. Fisherman rarely need anything heavier than 12lb test line and a light action spinning rod. This gear is versatile enough to handle many inshore fish, yet easy for guests of any skill level to use.

As for bait selection, nothing is reliable than live bait. This is the bait of choice for everything from Redfish to Snapper and Blackfin Tuna. Depending on the season and other conditions, however, your captain may recommend cut bait or lures instead. Frozen squid seems to be a common choice when bottom fishing near the reefs.

When to Go

Trips to the Gulf Coast are best in summer and early fall, when many migratory big game species are in their peak season. Meanwhile, the waters of Choctawhatchee Bay are full year-round, even in winter. In fact, fishing from autumn through spring is ideal for catching Bull Redfish and a good supply of Flounder and Speckled Trout.