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Damn Good Kingfish Fishing Charters In Destin

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Recently Booked Kingfish Fishing Charters Near Destin, Fl

Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Destin

Destin Offshore Thrills

NEW
40 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,250
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Destin

Destin Trolling & Bottom Fishing

100% (12)
40 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,920
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Fishing in Destin

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Destin

4 Hour Trip - 46’ Egg Harbor

100% (3)
46 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,200
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Destin

Federally Permitted - Destin Fish And Fun 31’ Sportsman

60% (5)
31 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,250
Damn Good
A Certified Damn Good Guide is someone who goes above and beyond to show you an incredible experience on your trip. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Destin

Luxury Quick Trip

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

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Destin

Deep Sea Dash: Half-Day Fishing

100% (6)
53 ft 1 - 24 People From $1,800

Most Popular Types of Kingfish Trips in Destin

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More Kingfish Fishing Charters Near Destin, Fl

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

100% (1)
20 ft 1 - 4 People From $1,200
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
trip description for Inshore and Nearshore Fishing Charter in Destin

Fishing trip in the destin bay and near coast (weather permitting). Target species for inshore are Redfish, Speckled trout, Black drum, Spanish mackerel, Sheepshead , and mangrove snapper depending on time of year. This type of fishing will be mainly live bait near the docks and homes of Destin with plenty to see. For gulf fishing target species are Red snapper, grouper, Amberjack, false albacore, kingfish, and other reef fish depending on time of year. This type of fishing is mainly bottom fishing or trolling. Enjoy the views of the skyline from the gulf with the occasional dolphins. Waters, Gatorades, and Sodas are provided. Please be sure to pack food and snacks. It may also be smart to bring towels and sunscreen. Read More

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Destin

Inshore And Nearshore Fishing Charter

NEW
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $1,000
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
trip description for Premier Destin - 60’ Blackwell in Destin

Captain Eric's vessel is not your typical fishing boat. It's sleek, it's sexy, and it's huge! Not to mention it was recently renovated in 2020 to be totally decked out with all the latest technology, pristine lounging spaces, and top-of-the-line fishing gear you could possibly need for a top-notch charter fishing experience. At 60 feet long and in impeccable condition, this vessel is one of Destin's premiere deep sea fishing charter yachts. Captain Eric strives to offer flexible charter lengths, successful catches, and a plethora of fishing knowledge to ensure you have the best possible charter experience aboard one of the nicest boats on the Florida Panhandle. From an afternoon reef fishing for Snapper and Grouper to multi-day trips off-shore chasing Marlin and other huge Billfish, and everything in between, the sky is the limit for what you can do with this Charter. All you need to bring is your sun protection, camera, and your food and drink of choice. Get ready for the fishing excursion of a lifetime! Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Destin

Premier Destin - 60’ Blackwell

NEW
60 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,600
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
trip description for Captain’s Choice: Troll + Shark in Destin

The Captain’s Choice charter trips include 1 hour of light tackle trolling, followed by 4 hours of shark fishing! Fun for the whole family! We are located behind Dewey Destin’s on the harbor. We share a parking lot with Luther’s Pontoon and Dewey’s. Please pull all the way down the hill to the water the morning of (free parking) and we can get everyone loaded up. We recommend you bring drinks/snacks and sunscreen. It will be hot! But we do have AC inside the boat as well as a restroom. We leave the dock at 5:30am so we ask if you could try and come a few minutes early so we can get everyone signed in and load your bags on the boat. A run down of our trolling charters: We have out 3-4 rods at a time and are continuously moving. We will pull lures through the water as we cruise through the Emerald Coast. You'll get to see an amazing sunrise (and probably some dolphins). Our targeted species are king Mackerel, Spanish mackerel, and bonitas. Light tackle trolling is fun for all ages, and the bite lately has been great first thing in the morning. A run down of our shark fishing charters: We make our way to our shark fishing spot, which is only about 10 mins away/less than a mile off shore. Then we will then throw the anchor and chum the waters with carcasses from the previous day and get our 3 big shark rods out. We have them all at different levels, one at the bottom, one mid-water and one floating on top. After we get those out and everyone is comfy we will get a couple of bottom fishing rods out to try and catch some snappers, trigger fish, etc. This is what we will do while we wait for the shark bite. The sharks will smell our chum and come to us so we have to be patient. Once we get the shark hooked up, we will get all of the other rods reeled in, throw the poly ball connected to our anchor and fight the shark. This way we can move with the shark and back down on him if needed. I hope this was helpful! Please let me know if you have any questions. We look forward to fishing with y'all. Read More

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Destin

Captain’s Choice: Troll + Shark

100% (2)
34 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,380
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
trip description for Shark Fishing Charter in Destin

We are located behind Dewey Destin’s on the harbor. We share a parking lot with Luther’s Pontoon and Dewey’s. Please pull all the way down the hill to the water the morning of (free parking) and we can get everyone loaded up. We recommend you bring drinks/snacks and sunscreen. It will be hot! But we do have AC inside the boat as well as a restroom. We leave the dock at 5:30am so we ask if you could try and come a few minutes early so we can get everyone signed in and load your bags on the boat. A run down of our shark fishing charters: We make our way to our shark fishing spot, which is only about 10 mins away/less than a mile off shore. Then we will then throw the anchor and chum the waters with carcasses from the previous day and get our 3 big shark rods out. We have them all at different levels, one at the bottom, one mid-water and one floating on top. After we get those out and everyone is comfy we will get a couple of bottom fishing rods out to try and catch some snappers, trigger fish, etc. This is what we will do while we wait for the shark bite. The sharks will smell our chum and come to us so we have to be patient. Once we get the shark hooked up, we will get all of the other rods reeled in, throw the poly ball connected to our anchor and fight the shark. This way we can move with the shark and back down on him if needed. I hope this was helpful! Please let me know if you have any questions. We look forward to fishing with y'all. Read More

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Destin

Shark Fishing Charter

100% (2)
34 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,104
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
trip description for Half Day Trip - 44' Custom in Destin

Climb aboard with Captain Harold for an exciting day fishing the waters around Destin, Florida! Captain Harold is a veteran of Destin fisheries, having fished these waters for almost 50 years! He’ll be sure to take you to where the fish bite. You’ll spend 4 hours trolling nearshore for the plethora of Spanish Mackerel and King Mackerel that inhabit these fisheries. Captain Harold's family custom-built “Al-Lin” in the late 1980s and have maintained the boat ever since. She is 44 feet long and can accommodate 6 anglers. She also has a restroom. Captain Harold and his crew provide everything you’ll need to have a productive day on the water, including rods, reels, tackle, bait, licenses, and ice. Just pack food, drinks, sunscreen, and a cooler to take home your day’s catch. Get ready for an exciting day on the water with Captain Harold! Read More

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Destin

Half Day Trip - 44' Custom

100% (21)
44 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,350
See All Kingfish Trips in Destin

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Everything to Know About Booking a Destin kingfish fishing charter

What are the best kingfish fishing charters in Destin?

Why should I book a kingfish fishing charter in Destin with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 106 kingfish trips in Destin, and the most popular trips in the area are Destin Trolling & Bottom Fishing guided by Kyle, Destin Offshore Thrills guided by Taylor, and Federally Permitted - Destin Fish and Fun 31’ Sportsman guided by Ryan.

Our guides in Destin are rated a 4.91 out of 5 based on 3300 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are licensed, insured, and vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Looking for kid friendly kingfish guides / fishing lessons in Destin? Check out our beginner and family friendly kingfish guides in Destin.

What types of kingfish fishing charters are common in Destin?

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular type of fishing for kingfish in Destin as well as nearshore fishing, inshore fishing, and jetty fishing.

The most common fishing techniques in Destin are trolling, bottom fishing, and heavy tackle fishing but light tackle fishing and live bait fishing are popular as well.

How much do Destin kingfish fishing charters cost?

Prices for kingfish in Destin can range anywhere from about $1,000 to $7,200, but the average price for a half day trip for kingfish in Destin is $1,891. The average price for a full day trip for kingfish in Destin is $4,225.

Is booking a fishing guide worth the money?

Hiring a guide provides a number of benefits and many choose to book a fishing guide for a combination of experience, local knowledge, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

Working with experienced fishing guides who know the best local spots and techniques can dramatically increase your odds of a great day. Having someone who is on the water every day and knows the area like the back of their hand is going to give you the best chances of success.

Booking a guide is also more cost effective, especially if you only get out a handful of times per year. When you consider all of the costs you would incur on your own such as the price of a boat, maintenance, insurance, gas, high-quality gear and tackle, repairs, and more, you’ll find that DIY is sometimes not worth the expense.

Even if you’ve got a great setup already in your home waters, booking a guide also provides a great opportunity to experience new techniques, new locations, or even a chance at a new target species to knock off the bucket list.

What month is best for kingfish fishing in Destin?

The most popular season for kingfish fishing in Destin is summer, and most anglers book their trips 15 days in advance.

Do I need a Destin fishing license for kingfish and what are the bag limits for kingfish in Destin?

See here for more information on fishing licenses in Destin, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in Destin. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in Destin.

What is kingfish fishing in Destin all about?

King mackerel, commonly known as kingfish, are a prized catch for anglers visiting Destin, offering thrilling fights and delicious fillets. These sleek and powerful fish can be found in abundance in the waters off Destin, particularly during the spring and fall months when they migrate along the coast. Kingfish are known for their blistering runs and aerial displays when hooked, making them a favorite target among both novice and experienced anglers alike.

One of the most effective techniques for targeting kingfish in Destin is slow trolling live bait, such as cigar minnows or threadfin herring, behind the boat. Anglers often use downriggers or planers to keep the bait at the desired depth, typically between 15 and 40 feet below the surface. Additionally, anglers may also use artificial lures such as spoons or diving plugs, which mimic the baitfish that kingfish prey upon. Regardless of the method used, kingfish are known for their aggressive strikes, providing anglers with heart-pounding action on the water.

In addition to their thrilling fights, kingfish are highly prized for their delicious white meat, making them a popular target for both recreational and commercial anglers. Once hooked, anglers must exercise caution when bringing kingfish aboard, as their sharp teeth and powerful jaws can inflict injury if not handled properly. With their abundance, accessibility, and exciting fishing opportunities, kingfish are a staple species in the waters off Destin, attracting anglers from far and wide to test their skills against these formidable adversaries.

What are the most popular months to fish for kingfish in Destin?

In Destin, Florida, the kingfish season typically peaks during the spring and fall months, coinciding with the fish's migration patterns along the Gulf Coast. Spring is considered prime time for kingfish fishing in Destin, with the arrival of warmer temperatures signaling the beginning of the migration northward. As the waters warm, baitfish become more abundant, drawing kingfish closer to the shore in search of food. Anglers can expect to encounter larger concentrations of kingfish during this time, making it an ideal season for targeting these prized gamefish.

During the fall months, kingfish return to the waters off Destin as they make their way southward, following the cooler temperatures and shifting currents. Fall is another peak season for kingfish fishing in Destin, with the fish once again congregating in nearshore and offshore waters in search of prey. The fall migration often coincides with baitfish runs, such as mullet and menhaden, providing ample feeding opportunities for hungry kingfish. Anglers can expect to find kingfish in various depths, from nearshore reefs and wrecks to offshore ledges and drop-offs, presenting a diverse range of fishing opportunities.

While kingfish can be caught year-round in Destin, the spring and fall seasons offer the best chances of success due to the higher concentrations of fish and favorable weather conditions. However, anglers should keep in mind that kingfish are highly migratory and can be influenced by factors such as water temperature, currents, and baitfish movements. By staying informed about seasonal patterns and local fishing reports, anglers can maximize their chances of landing a trophy-sized kingfish during their visit to Destin's bountiful waters.

What techniques are popular for catching kingfish in Destin?

In Destin, Florida, anglers employ various techniques to target kingfish, also known as king mackerel, throughout the year. One popular method is trolling, where anglers use outriggers and downriggers to deploy multiple lines behind a moving boat. Trolling allows anglers to cover large areas of water and present baits at different depths, increasing their chances of encountering feeding kingfish. Common trolling baits include cigar minnows, ballyhoo, and artificial lures designed to mimic the movements of baitfish. Adjusting trolling speed and lure depth based on water temperature, current, and fish activity can help optimize success.

Another effective technique for catching kingfish in Destin is live bait fishing. Anglers often use live baits such as cigar minnows, blue runners, and Spanish sardines rigged on wire leaders and circle hooks to target kingfish near reefs, wrecks, and other structure. Live bait fishing allows anglers to present natural prey items to kingfish, enticing them to strike. Positioning the boat up-current of the structure and deploying baits at various depths can help anglers intercept passing kingfish and increase their chances of hooking up.

Vertical jigging is a productive technique for targeting kingfish in deeper water or when they are holding tight to structure. Anglers use heavy metal jigs that mimic the movements of injured baitfish, dropping them vertically to the desired depth and jigging them erratically to attract kingfish. Vertical jigging requires precision boat positioning and controlled jigging motions to entice strikes from kingfish lurking below. This technique can be particularly effective when kingfish are feeding near offshore wrecks, ledges, and drop-offs, where they often congregate in search of prey. By mastering these fishing techniques, anglers can increase their chances of landing trophy-sized kingfish in the waters off Destin.

What other species are popular in Destin?

Aside from kingfish, Destin offers anglers a diverse range of species to target throughout the year. One popular target for anglers visiting Destin is red snapper. These prized reef dwellers are abundant in the waters off Destin and are known for their delicious taste and strong fighting abilities. Anglers often target red snapper using live bait, such as cigar minnows or pinfish, fished near offshore reefs, wrecks, and ledges. Additionally, bottom fishing with cut bait or jigging with metal jigs can also produce bites from red snapper.

Another species commonly targeted by anglers in Destin is grouper. Species such as gag grouper, red grouper, and scamp grouper inhabit the offshore reefs, wrecks, and ledges in the area. These bottom-dwelling predators are known for their hard-hitting strikes and powerful fights. Anglers typically target grouper using live bait, such as pinfish or threadfin herring, dropped to the bottom with heavy tackle. Vertical jigging with metal jigs or trolling deep-diving lures can also be effective techniques for catching grouper.

For those looking for a thrilling inshore fishing experience, Destin offers opportunities to target species such as speckled trout, redfish, and flounder. These species can be found in the shallow waters of the Choctawhatchee Bay, along grass flats, oyster bars, and marshy shorelines. Anglers often use light spinning tackle and artificial lures such as soft plastic swimbaits, topwater plugs, and jig heads tipped with shrimp or artificial bait to entice strikes from these inshore species. Whether targeting kingfish offshore or exploring the inshore waters for trout and redfish, Destin provides anglers with a wide variety of fishing opportunities throughout the year.

Recent Reviews of Captain Experiences

  • ★★★★★
    Great time! Caught some nice sized eating fish! Great crew!

    Kolton H. with Kent P. of Niceville, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Tommy was great, his mate was very patient with some first time fisherman. Great day on the water. Highly recommend.

    Jason M. with Tommy C. of Destin, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Jason is very knowledgeable and worked hard to assure we had a safe and enjoyable trip. The two youngsters on board, ages 11 and 12, had a blast catching snappers and a variety of other species while bottom fishing. Later switched to trolling for mahi and kings but those species didn't want to cooperate that day. His 26ft boat offered a stable and dry ride for our 5 person charter even in a light chop well offshore. Captain Jason well deserves his 5 star "damn good" rating and we will definitely contact him should we decide to fish this area again.

    Steve K. with Jason Y. of Shalimar, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    What a great trip and experience. First deep sea fishing trip for my 11 year old boy. Capt. Alex was friendly, knowledgeable and made the trip very enjoyable for myself and my boy. Alex makes the trip about you and works as hard as he can to make sure you have a successful trip. We definitely look forward to going back out with Capt. Alex in the future.

    David M. with Alex H. of Destin, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    What an amazing trip!!!! Great captain and deck hand!!! Caught a shark a bunch of snappers and other stuff!!!!

    Josh . with Kyle L. of Destin, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    The trip was an incredible and unique experience. The boat was clean and well maintained and Capt Robert was great! He worked hard to make sure we got some fish to take home and taught us fresh water fisherman a thing or 2 about ocean fishing. Absolutely recommend.

    Charles A. with Robert J. of Destin, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Seth did a great job! He went above and beyond! We enjoyed our day and highly recommend!

    Ann M. with Seth L. of Niceville, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Awesome trip. My son and I took this trip to get on snapper and we did. Then we ended up hooked on a bull shark and the captain did everything in his power to get the shark to the surface. It was definitely a life time experience that we will never forget. Thank you for the amazing memories I made with my son. Worth every penny.

    James L. with Jason Y. of Shalimar, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Zach initially was unavailable but he got us hooked up with another boat quick and it was a great trip! The captain and his first mate were very knowledgeable about where the fish were and we never had to wait for bait, they got our poles ready, took the fish off and we had a great experience! The boat was very clean and we will for sure book with them next year! Highly recommend!

    Destany O. with Zachary W. of Destin, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Katie and Nick are the absolute bomb!!!! Been coming to Destin for years waiting to find the right captain, don’t waste anymore time, if you’re looking for BIG SHARKS, Captain Katie is your girl!!! During the wait they kept the action going on smaller lines the entire time! And once the bite was on it was ON!!! Hats off Captain Katie, you are definitely one of the best!

    Paul-Jason Q. with Katie A. of Destin, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    After a few delays due to a tropical storm we were able to get out and fish! We had a great time and everyone was very nice and helpful!! Great trip!!

    Sheri D. with Reid P. of Destin, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    It was a great trip. I caught some pretty fish and a stingray. Captain Seth was a great guide and very knowledgeable. Highly recommend this guide!

    Wiley W. with Seth L. of Niceville, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Stellar Review for an Unforgettable Fish Charter Experience Our recent fish charter experience with Captain Katie and her first mate, Nick, was nothing short of phenomenal! I took my 13 and 11-year-old boys shark fishing, and Captain Katie did not disappoint. We landed an impressive 9' tiger shark that gave us an exhilarating challenge and wore us out in the best way possible. The excitement didn't stop there. Captain Katie expertly guided us to prime spots where we caught mackerel, bonita, and snapper, keeping the adrenaline high and the action continuous. We go charter fishing every year, and I can confidently say that this was the most enjoyable and memorable trip we've ever had. The crew's professionalism, expertise, and friendly demeanor made the entire experience exceptional. I highly recommend this crew for anyone looking for an unforgettable fishing adventure!

    Adam D. with Katie A. of Destin, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Capt Brantley and Josh made the trip awesome. We tied into a pair of Wahoo on the trip out and ripped loads of fish while out Anyone and I mean anyone experience or not NEEDS to book and go out with these guys Thanks so much again See yall in the Fall

    Mark R. with Brantley G. of Destin, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    My 12 yr old daughter and I went out with Robbie on June 24, 2024. Robbie knew where the fish were. It was a great day and even better memories with my daughter. Thanks again, Robbie. I look forward to fishing with you again next year!

    Drew A. with Robbie B. of Destin, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    I have gone on many fishing charters, and this was one of the best. They put us on a lot of fish,definitely worth it!!

    Mark B. with Harold S. of Destin, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great guy. Did an awesome job!! Caught multiple species. Would 100% book another trip with Jason.

    James T. with Jason Y. of Shalimar, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    The trip was initially planned with Ryan but change to Captain Blake. He was phenomenal. Helpful though all. Knew where the fish were.

    Thomas R. with Ryan H. of Destin, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great day of Fishing! Caught fish the entire trip! Thanks for a memorable day!

    Kirk T. with Jason R. of Destin, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had an awesome time!!

    Patricia R. with Reid P. of Destin, Florida

What's biting in Destin?

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