Damn Good Goliath Grouper Fishing Charters In Destin

Check real-time availability and compare rates on Destin goliath grouper fishing trips. Confidently book your next day on the water.

Choose a Date
4.97/5 Average Rating

Damn Good Guides

You will only find quality, vetted guides on Captain Experiences, and we know them all on a first-name basis

Experts Available 24/7

Our US-based team is available 24/7 to help you with any questions or concerns

100% Weather Guarantee

We want to keep everyone safe, so in the case of inclement weather we'll work with you to reschedule at no cost

Recently Booked Goliath Grouper Fishing Charters In Destin, Fl

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Nearshore Fishing in Destin

Destin Fishing Adventure

100% (9)
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $980
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Nearshore Fishing in Destin

Half Day Trip - 44' Custom

100% (60)
44 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,350
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing in Destin

Destin Fishing - 21’ Cape Horn

100% (9)
22 ft 1 - 5 People From $900
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing in Destin

Harbor Hookup: Destin Fishing Fun

100% (16)
46 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,800
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing in Panama City Beach

PCB Fishing Adventure

100% (3)
27 ft 1 - 4 People From $600
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Nearshore Fishing in Pensacola

Pensacola Deep Sea Fishing

100% (6)
32 ft 1 - 6 People From $950

Top Types of Goliath Grouper Trips in Destin

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and look forward to getting you out on the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

All Target Species in Destin

View Full Species Seasonality Chart »
  • Get it while it's HOT!
  • This species is in play.
  • You might get lucky (as long as things are in-season).
  • Couldn't tell ya! (no data)

More Goliath Grouper Fishing Charters In Destin, Fl

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Nearshore Fishing in Pensacola

Pensacola Deep Sea Fishing

100% (6)
32 ft 1 - 6 People From $950
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing in Panama City Beach

PCB Fishing Adventure

100% (3)
27 ft 1 - 4 People From $600
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing in Destin

Harbor Hookup: Destin Fishing Fun

100% (16)
46 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,800
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing in Destin

Destin Fishing - 21’ Cape Horn

100% (9)
22 ft 1 - 5 People From $900
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Nearshore Fishing in Destin

Half Day Trip - 44' Custom

100% (60)
44 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,350
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Nearshore Fishing in Destin

Destin Fishing Adventure

100% (9)
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $980
See All Goliath Grouper Trips in Destin

Other Captain Experiences Trips in Destin

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing in Destin

Fishing With Capt Tyler 4-12hrs!

100% (6)
40 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,200
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Nearshore Fishing in Destin

Bad To The Bone Destin Trip

100% (6)
40 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,800
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing in Destin

Combo - Reef/Trolling

100% (18)
40 ft 1 - 12 People From $2,100
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing in Destin

Destin 12 Hour Private Charter

100% (6)
65 ft 1 - 30 People From $5,083
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing in Destin

Destin 10 Hour Private Charter

100% (6)
65 ft 1 - 30 People From $4,236
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing in Destin

Destin 8 HR Private Fishing Charter

100% (6)
65 ft 1 - 30 People From $3,389
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing in Destin

Destin 6 HR Private Fishing Charter

100% (6)
65 ft 1 - 30 People From $2,542
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing in Destin

Destin Fishing Blitz

100% (13)
42 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,950
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing in Destin

Overnighter Under The Stars

100% (13)
42 ft 1 - 6 People From $8,400
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing in Destin

Rodeo Fishing Trip

100% (13)
42 ft 1 - 6 People From $3,250
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing in Destin

Offshore Marlin Special

100% (13)
42 ft 1 - 6 People From $4,700
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing in Destin

Destin Full-Day Fish Fest

100% (60)
44 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,800

Need a Place to Stay?

Everything to Know About Booking a Destin goliath grouper fishing charter

What are the best goliath grouper fishing charters in Destin?

What is goliath grouper fishing in Destin, FL all about?

Goliath grouper fishing in Destin, FL, offers anglers the chance to encounter one of the largest and most powerful fish species found in the Gulf of Mexico. These colossal predators, known for their massive size and formidable strength, inhabit the wrecks, reefs, and rock formations scattered throughout the waters off Destin. Anglers seeking the thrill of battling a true giant can target goliath grouper using heavy tackle and sturdy equipment, as these fish can exceed 500 pounds in weight and put up an intense fight when hooked.

One popular method for targeting goliath grouper in Destin is bottom fishing with large live baits such as mullet, pinfish, or grunts. Anglers typically anchor near known goliath grouper hotspots, such as wreck sites or artificial reefs, and present baits on heavy-duty rigs near the ocean floor. Goliath grouper are opportunistic feeders and are known to ambush prey from their hiding spots in the structure, making them susceptible to well-presented baits. Patience and persistence are key when targeting goliath grouper, as they may require multiple attempts before successfully hooking into one of these massive fish.

Goliath grouper fishing in Destin can be a thrilling and memorable experience for anglers of all skill levels, offering the chance to test their strength and skill against one of the ocean's ultimate predators. While goliath grouper are protected from harvest in Florida waters, catch-and-release fishing for these impressive fish remains a popular and rewarding pursuit. Anglers visiting Destin can enjoy the challenge of battling these behemoths while contributing to their conservation and preservation for future generations to enjoy.

What are the most popular months to fish for goliath grouper in Destin, FL?

In Destin, Florida, goliath grouper are present year-round, making them an enticing target for anglers seeking an exhilarating fishing experience. However, there are certain seasons and times of the year when goliath grouper fishing in Destin can be particularly productive. During the summer months, from June to August, goliath grouper are known to be more active and abundant in the area's offshore waters. Warmer water temperatures and increased baitfish activity often coincide with heightened feeding behavior among goliath grouper, presenting prime opportunities for anglers to hook into these massive fish.

While goliath grouper can be caught in Destin throughout the year, anglers may find that their fishing success varies depending on factors such as water temperature, weather patterns, and baitfish migration. In the fall, from September to November, goliath grouper may be found congregating around offshore structures such as wrecks, reefs, and ledges as they prepare for the winter months. Cooler water temperatures and changing currents can influence the movement and behavior of goliath grouper, leading to shifts in their feeding patterns and preferred habitats.

During the winter and spring months, from December to May, goliath grouper fishing in Destin may slow down as colder water temperatures prevail and fish become less active. However, experienced anglers who know where to look and how to adapt their fishing techniques can still find success targeting goliath grouper during these seasons. By focusing on deeper offshore structures and employing patience and persistence, anglers can increase their chances of hooking into these powerful fish, even during less favorable conditions. Overall, goliath grouper fishing in Destin offers opportunities for anglers to test their skills and pursue one of the Gulf Coast's most formidable fish species throughout the year.

What techniques are popular for catching goliath grouper in Destin, FL?

In Destin, Florida, goliath grouper fishing requires specialized techniques due to the size and strength of these colossal fish. Anglers typically target goliath grouper using heavy tackle and sturdy equipment capable of handling the intense fighting power of these formidable predators. When fishing for goliath grouper in Destin's offshore waters, anglers often rely on bottom fishing techniques, dropping large baits such as whole fish, squid, or even stingrays to the seafloor near underwater structures like wrecks, reefs, and ledges where goliath grouper are known to congregate.

One of the most effective goliath grouper fishing techniques in Destin involves using live or dead baitfish rigged on heavy-duty circle hooks and strong leaders to withstand the brute force of these massive fish. Anglers often deploy their baits close to the bottom and allow them to drift naturally with the current, enticing goliath grouper lurking in the depths to strike. Additionally, chumming with chunks of bait or fish oil can help attract goliath grouper to the area and entice them into feeding, increasing the chances of a successful hook-up.

Another popular technique for goliath grouper fishing in Destin is vertical jigging, which involves dropping heavy metal jigs or bucktail jigs to the seafloor and rapidly jigging them up and down to mimic injured prey. This technique can be effective for enticing goliath grouper to strike, especially when they are actively feeding near underwater structures. Anglers must be prepared for the immense strength and power of goliath grouper, as these fish are known for their ability to put up a fierce fight, requiring patience, skill, and determination to land successfully.

What other species are popular in Destin FL?

Aside from the mighty goliath grouper, Destin, Florida, offers a diverse array of fish species for anglers to target throughout the year. One popular catch in Destin's waters is the prized red snapper, known for its delicious taste and thrilling fight. These vibrant fish inhabit the offshore reefs and wrecks around Destin, making them accessible to anglers seeking an exciting fishing adventure. Red snapper season in Destin typically runs from June to August, offering ample opportunities for anglers to reel in these prized catches.

Another species abundant in Destin's waters is the amberjack, renowned for its powerful strikes and impressive size. These strong-fighting fish can be found near offshore structures such as reefs, wrecks, and oil rigs, making them a challenging yet rewarding catch for experienced anglers. Amberjack season in Destin usually peaks during the spring and fall months when these fish are most active and feeding aggressively.

In addition to red snapper and amberjack, Destin offers excellent opportunities for catching a variety of pelagic species such as mahi-mahi, wahoo, and king mackerel. These fast-swimming fish roam the offshore waters of Destin in search of baitfish, making them exciting targets for anglers trolling with artificial lures or live bait. Whether targeting bottom-dwelling species like red snapper and amberjack or pelagic predators like mahi-mahi and wahoo, anglers visiting Destin can expect an unforgettable fishing experience filled with action and adventure.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    We had the best time fishing on Captain Chris’s boat. He made our experience special and put us on top of the fish. The boat and equipment was first class and Captain Chris was such a pleasure to be with.

    Gene W. | November 21, 2025

    Trip: PCB Fishing Adventure

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great time hats off to the crew Jason & Dillion. We caught the fish.

    Dewayne C. | August 6, 2025

    Trip: Harbor Hookup: Destin Fishing Fun

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Chris was awesome, he put us on lots of fish. He was very experienced and we enjoyed our trip.

    Monte J. | June 19, 2025

    Trip: PCB Fishing Adventure

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great time on the water with Captain Harold and his crew , DJ and Brice! Great attention to detail and made the trip easy to enjoy. I would recommend these guys for sure. The boat was comfortable and plenty of seating for our group of six. The cabin was available as well with a clean restroom. I really don’t have any complaints at all. They put us on fish the whole six hours and we left with our coolers full! Thanks Guys!

    Ryan S. | June 18, 2025

    Trip: Half Day Trip - 44' Custom

  • ★★★★★
    My family and I went out with Doug and his son Jon. it was a wonderful experience; the boat had a bathroom and air conditioning that is very hard to find on most fishing excursion boats. While Doug captained the boat his son kept all the rods baited and cast, all we had to do was reel them in. They knew exactly where to go, we caught plenty of fish and Jon filleted and cleaned them even advised us how to cook them. With their years of experience and knowledge I would only go with them again and advise anybody to do the same.

    Roy C. | June 2, 2025

    Trip: Pensacola Deep Sea Fishing

Other Featured Cities

What's biting in Destin?

View Goliath Grouper Fishing Reports from our damn good guides.

Didn't Find What You Were Looking For?

Our guides are Damn Good Guides, which means they’re vetted by our team of outdoor experts who know them on a first-name basis. We hand pick each and every one of them, and our network spans all across the US and beyond.

The proof is in the pudding, and we’re incredibly proud of our 4.9 / 5 average review score. Hit the button below to see more trip options:

See All Goliath Grouper Trips in Destin