The gorgeous teal green waters along Florida’s Emerald Coast boast some of our country’s best fishing. Record-sized catches in many categories earned Destin, Fl the title of “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village.” And, while what constitutes a big fish varies with the species, the thrill out of catching a “big one” never wavers.
What Are My Chances of Catching a Big Fish On a Destin Charter Boat?
According to the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission, the largest Warsaw Grouper ever caught, (436 pounds and 12 ounces), was pulled over the side of a boat not far from the Destin Harbor on December 29th 2019. Biologists from FWRI’s Age & Growth Lab estimate the massive fish to be approximately 50-years old. Other record catches in the area include the biggest Gag Grouper at 80 pounds and 6 ounces, and the largest Red Snapper ever hooked in Florida at 46 pounds and 8 ounces. While you may not snag a record-breaker (not that you couldn’t), this area of the Panhandle does have a pretty good track record when it comes to big fish. Here’s a shortlist of some of the other area fish that local fishermen pull in on a regular basis.
Mackerel – The most common species of mackerel found in the Destin area waters include the Spanish Mackerel, the King Mackerel, and the Cero Mackerel. Mackerel range in size from two-pounds up to twenty-pounds.
Snapper – The Emerald Coast’s most caught fish – the Red Snapper – typically weighs in at a three to five pounds. But, with the state record at 46-pounds, 8-ounces (caught near Destin, of course), don’t be surprised to reel one in that’s ten pounds or more. Also plentiful in the Gulf waters, Mangrove and Vermillion Snapper grow to about eight and six pounds, respectively.
Grouper – Born as females, some Grouper later become males. The largest Gag Grouper ever caught in Florida (near Destin), tipped the scales at 80-pounds, 6-ounces. Similar in appearance and taste to Gag Grouper, the biggest Black Grouper caught in the state weighed-in at 113-pounds, 6-ounces. The equally tasty Red Grouper hold a smaller but, not too shabby, state record of 42-pounds, 4-ounces.
Shark – Destin waters feature almost two-dozen varieties of sharks. The most common species include the Tiger Shark, the Bull Shark, the Bonnethead Shark, and the Atlantic Sharpnose Shark. Depending on the species, Gulf area sharks range in size from three-and-a-half to twelve-feet long.
Spotted Seatrout – One of Florida’s more popular sportfish, Spotted Seatrout show up between March and November every year. Spotted Seatrout typically weigh four pounds and up, depending on where and when they’re caught.
Swordfish – Swordfish start at around 50-pounds, and the females can grow to well over 200-pounds. The tremendous fight put up by Swordfish makes them popular with big game fishermen.
Tuna – Another popular sportfish found in the Panhandle area – the Yellowfin Tuna – can weigh in at up to 360-pounds. The Yellowfin’s smaller cousin – the Tunny – holds its own at a respectable 26-pound average weight. And, of course, they are both “good eating,” as well.
Other species of fish found in Gulf waters include Amberjack, Cobia, Shortfin Mako, Sailfish, Bluefish, and many more. Several Blue Marlin caught throughout the years have approached the 1,000-pound mark.
When is the Best Time of Year to Fish the Emerald Coast?
Most Gulf water fish are in season year-round. Red Snapper season in Florida typically runs from early June to late July of each year. Gray Triggerfish, Greater Amberjack, and certain Grouper varieties also have specific seasons that vary from year to year. Every Spring, Cobia migrate north along the Gulf Coast. Capable of leaps, rolls, deep dives, and long runs, Cobia put up one of the most unpredictable fights of any fish. With catches weighing over 100-pounds, the Cobia Spring sojourn makes for some of the most exciting fishing found anywhere in the world.
Can I Catch a Big Fish on a Day Trip?
The answer is yes, indeed. Because the deep water (100-feet) starts just about 15-miles off of the coast, many Destin charter boats like the Finest Kind offer deep sea fishing on day trips as short as six hours. Waters teeming with everything from Tuna to Mahi Mahi are just a short ride from the Destin Harbor.
Can I Keep My Catch?
As long as your fish meets the minimum size requirement and the boat as a whole has not exceeded catch limits, you sure can. For the current year Recreational Fishing Season Calendar, check “What’s Biting” in the top menu. The calendar provides season opening and closing dates, as well as size and catch limits for many species found in local waters. Catch limits are per person, but they apply to the entire boat. The mates will clean your fish for easy grilling. Many area restaurants will even cook your catch for a small fee.
Am I Guaranteed to Catch a Fish?
Mother Nature makes no promises when it comes to catching fish. But, if she did, Destin, Florida would probably be her first choice. The Destin fishing fleet consists of over 40 charter boats, many with award-winning captains. Few people get shut out, and many enjoy the best fishing experience of their entire life on Destin Harbor fishing boats. Numerous Florida state, as well as world-record-setting fish, have been caught in the Gulf of Mexico near Destin. But many factors contribute to the success of any fishing trip.
Weather, tides, time of year, bait selection, and location all play a significant role in determining the day’s catch. And, like anything else, experience makes a huge difference. A seasoned captain and crew always know what fish are running and where to find them. Thanks to modern equipment such as radar, depth finders, and sonar, charter boat pilots can usually put their guests right over the fish any time of day or night.
Fishing is the perfect way to connect with family and friends. A day on the water takes relaxation to the next level. Catching a “big fish” makes memories that last a lifetime. As the old saying goes – “a bad day of fishing is better than a good day of standing on line at the amusement park,” or something like that.