Spring break fishing along the Emerald Coast has been nothing short of outstanding, and our recent trips out of Santa Rosa Beach and Destin, Florida, have delivered consistent action for anglers of all experience levels. The biggest headline has been the new Okaloosa nearshore FADs (Fish Aggregating Devices), which are already producing exceptional results. These shallow water fish attracting devices have been holding strong numbers of mahi mahi, giving us steady offshore-style action just a short run from the beach. Clients have been thrilled with the opportunity to target pelagic species without needing a full-day trip.
Closer to shore, the...
Jon P.
Santa Rosa Beach, FloridaReported 3 months ago
Spring break fishing along the Emerald Coast has been nothing short of outstanding, and our recent trips out of Santa Rosa Beach and Destin, Florida, have delivered consistent action for anglers of all experience levels. The biggest headline has been the new Okaloosa nearshore FADs (Fish Aggregating Devices), which are already producing exceptional results. These shallow water fish attracting devices have been holding strong numbers of mahi mahi, giving us steady offshore-style action just a short run from the beach. Clients have been thrilled with the opportunity to target pelagic species without needing a full-day trip.
Closer to shore, the Spanish mackerel bite has been on fire inside Destin Harbor and along the Destin jetties. This has been a perfect option for families and spring breakers looking for fast-paced action, with multiple hook-ups and nonstop rod-bending activity. We've also been finding quality mahi mahi on weedlines within 5 miles of the beach, another great sign that our spring pelagic season is ramping up early this year. These fish have been eager to bite and provide excellent table fare for our crews. For anglers booking our 6-hour trips, the bottom fishing has been just as consistent. We've been putting together solid catches of red grouper, giving clients a great mix of offshore action and dependable bottom fishing. Looking Ahead: April Pelagic Season Heating Up. As we move deeper into April, everything is lining up for an incredible spring pelagic fishing season along the 30A and Destin coastline. Historically, this is when the fishing really takes off,” and we're already seeing early signs of what's to come. Over the past several seasons, we have consistently produced tuna and marlin catches around the FADs throughout April and May, and we expect this year to be no different. With warming water temperatures and increasing bait activity, the Gulf is coming alive. Whether you're targeting mahi mahi, tuna, or even a shot at a billfish, now is the time to get on the schedule.
Water temps are rising and the bite is turning on! Vermillion snapper are beginning to be plentiful and red grouper have been showing up in good numbers. Trigger fish are plentiful as well, but you have to fish through the shorts to get the keepers! As the weather continues to warm up the bite will get even better!
Heath H.
Okaloosa Island, FloridaReported 3 months ago
Water temps are rising and the bite is turning on! Vermillion snapper are beginning to be plentiful and red grouper have been showing up in good numbers. Trigger fish are plentiful as well, but you have to fish through the shorts to get the keepers! As the weather continues to warm up the bite will get even better!
You might get lucky (as long as things are in-season).
Couldn't tell ya! (no data)
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Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Captain David was really friendly and had the knowledge it took to catch fish. He took extra time to show/teach 9 year old grandson how to catch 4 different species of saltwater fish. Thanks again captain.
Had an amazing day with Jordan, he was great with my older kids and we caught a lot of fish! He helped filet our catch of the day which was so delicious. We would hire Jordan again when we return to fish in Destin!
Brought my kids on the trip. Craig and crew were very accommodating and assisted family so I could also catch fish. Very friendly and highly recommend if bringing a family with mixed age group. Caught many snapper and get a few larger fish, grouper, Bonita, amber jack.
I will be looking up Craig for my next fishing trip in Destin.
We had a great experience with CPT. Kyle, he kept us on the fish. Ben, his deck hand was amazing and helped out tremendously. Definitely recommend this crew and boat. My family and I had a blast.
Captain Tim was awesome. We did 4 hrs with 3 kids. We were all beginners. He was a good teacher and very patient. Will definitely charter with him again!
-Nick
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