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First Shot Charters in Destin, Florida

Guided by Mike Dates

Deep Sea Inshore

About Your Guide

19 Years of Experience

Captain Mike has been fishing the Destin area waters from 1969 to present, Captain Mike has the experience and know-how to keep you busy. The inshore Gulf of Mexico has everything from the drag-screaming light tackle action of King Mackerel to the excellent table fare of Red Snapper and Grouper. Also available is Backcountry (back bay) fishing for Speckled Trout, Red fish, flounder, and Spanish mackerel. This is the kind of light tackle rod bending action that will keep you and your family smiling. Captain Mike uses live bait in almost all situations to keep you catching the big ones, however, if you are an artificial bait fisher manor fly-fisherman…yes they do that too! Captain Mike will do everything in his power to make your Destin fishing experience is a memorable one and the highlight of your vacation. There are so many different fish to catch in this area, which one do you want to target?

First Shot Charters Trips

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
trip description for All-Day Action - 20’ Cape Horn in Destin

Captain Mike specializes in fishing the coastal waters of the Gulf of Mexico as well as the backcountry waters of the Choctawhatchee Bay. In the gulf, your targets will be King Mackerel, Cobia, Blackfin Tuna, Sharks, Red Snapper, Grouper, Triggerfish, and much more depending on the season. The bayside is teeming with Trout, Redfish, Black Snapper, Flounder, Ladyfish and Bluefish. Captain Mike primarily uses live bait, but he can easily accommodate fly and artificial fishermen as well. All the equipment from rods, reels, tackle and bait will be provided, along with a seasoned guide who will be there to help along the way. As a matter of fact he will also be happy to clean the catch for you following the trip. If you don’t want to keep the fish, Captain Mike is experienced in CPR fishing – “Catch, Photo, Release”. This way, you’ll ensure you do minimal harm to the fish you catch, which will then be safely released back into its natural habitat. From the first-time angler to the skilled professional, Captain Mike will do his best to keep you on the fish and put a smile on your face. Don't forget to bring your favorite snacks, drinks, and a tip for your guide, but all the fishing equipment for your group is provided by the Captain, along with fishing licenses for all occupants of the boat, so you can relax and enjoy an incredible time fishing. Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Destin

All-Day Action - 20’ Cape Horn

NEW
20 ft 1 - 4 People From $1,320
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
trip description for 3-Hour Kids Fun Trip in Destin

Take your kids out on the water and get them hooked on fishing! Captain Mike will teach them how to fish in the calm waters of Choctawhatchee Bay and maybe even the gulf on days where it isn't too choppy. This is mainly a catch and release trip but if you catch something worth eating, Captain Mike will filet it and let you take it home for dinner! On this easygoing trip, your little ones will be targeting Black Drum, Flounder, Redfish, Sheepshead, and Speckled Trout. Captain Mike primarily uses live bait, but he can easily accommodate fly and artificial fishermen as well. These fish are perfect for beginners and will provide a captivating fishing experience for kids! If you don’t want to keep the fish, Captain Mike is experienced in CPR fishing – “Catch, Photo, Release”. This way, you’ll ensure you do minimal harm to the fish you catch, which will then be safely released back into its natural habitat. From the first-time angler to the skilled professional, Captain Mike will do his best to keep you on the fish and put a smile on your face. Don't forget to bring your favorite snacks, drinks, and a tip for your guide. All the fishing equipment for your group is provided by the Captain, along with fishing licenses for all occupants of the boat. Book your trip and Captain Mike will take care of the rest! Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter in Destin

3-Hour Kids Fun Trip

100% (1)
20 ft 1 - 4 People From $715

Recent Reviews of First Shot Charters

Matthew

Verified Review Fishing

Capt Mike, was great, first class captain. Put us on the fish, will fish with him again!

Species

Amberjack, Black Drum, Black Grouper, Cobia, Flounder, Gag Grouper, Kingfish, Ladyfish, Red Snapper, Redfish, Sailfish, Sheepshead, Spanish Mackerel, Speckled Trout

Techniques

Artificial Lure Fishing, Bottom Fishing, Drift Fishing, Heavy Tackle Fishing, Jigging, Light Tackle Fishing, Trolling

Types of Fishing

Deep Sea, Inshore

Start Location

538 Harbor Boulevard, Destin, FL 32541, United States | Bodies of water fished: Choctawhatchee Bay

First Shot Charters Photo Gallery

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