facebook pixel

Sailfish Fishing Charters In Destin

Easily find a Destin fishing guide that fits your needs. Confidently book your next day on the water.

5/5 Average Rating


Experts Available 24/7

Licensed & Insured Guides

100% Weather Guarantee

Recently Booked Sailfish Fishing Charters Near Destin, Fl

Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Destin

Combo - Reef/Trolling

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

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Destin

Destin Full-Day Fish Fest

100% (3)
44 ft 1 - 6 People $$$
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Destin

Spring Offshore Special

100% (2)
42 ft 1 - 6 People $$$
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Destin

Deep Sea-Nearshore Gulf Experience

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

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Destin

Harbor Hookup: Destin Fishing Fun

100% (1)
46 ft 1 - 6 People $$$
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Destin

Combo Reef & Trolling Trips

NEW
40 ft 1 - 6 People $$$

Most Popular Types of Sailfish Trips in Destin

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond to provide you an incredible trip, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and about empowering people to find the perfect-match guide for the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

More Sailfish Fishing Charters Near Destin, Fl

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
trip description for Destin Offshore Thrills in Destin

Launch aboard Captain Taylor's 40' Infinity sportfisher for a first-class Gulf Coast fishing experience out of Destin FL. With years of experience fishing the waters off the coast of Destin, Captain Taylor will put all of his knowledge toward getting you on the fish safely and in style! After you meet up with Captain Taylor at the East Pass Marina, he'll crank up the engines, you will motor out a couple of miles offshore to do some trolling, deep-sea dropping, and fish catching! For single-day trips you can expect to hook into the likes of Wahoo, King Mackerel, Snapper, Sharks, Jack Crevelle, Mahi Mahi, Bonita, Amber Jack, Cobia and potentially Tarpon (when they're around in the summer months) just to name a few, and there are plenty more species the Gulf can offer up! You are welcome to get as involved as you would like with your adventure as well, whether you'd rather lounge until the reel starts screaming or if you want your hand on the rod the whole time, Captain Taylor can make it happen! Beyond superior service and luxurious amenities, Captain Taylor also provides all the best rods, reels, tackle, bait, and fishing licenses you could possibly need for a successful day out on the water. Thus, all you need to bring are your favorite lunch, snacks, and drinks, your sun protection, maybe a towel, and your camera! Otherwise, Captain Taylor will take care of the rest to make the most of your Destin saltwater adventure! Read More

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Destin

Destin Offshore Thrills

NEW
40 ft 1 - 6 People $$$
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
trip description for Bad to the Bone Destin Trip in Destin

If you have never been to Destin, Florida before then you’re missing out! And if you’re looking for a knowledgeable charter captain to take you out, Captain Tyler is a great choice. Captain Tyler will help you target a variety of species including Dorado (Mahi Mahi), Jack Crevalle, Kingfish, and Sailfish. Regardless of if you’re a beginner or a seasoned professional, Captain Tyler will lead the way! These trips are great for families, especially because Captain Tyler enjoys teaching the little ones the ropes. You’ll be fishing aboard Captain Tyler’s 40' Infinity sportfisher, a purpose-built vessel that's awesome for a luxury trip! She's powered by twin Caterpillar diesel engines, so you'll be off the dock and on the fish in no time. Captain Tyler will provide all rods, reels, tackle, and lures. Live bait is included in the price. The fishing license for the whole group is also included. Plus, the deck hand on board will fillet and package your fish, bait all your hooks, and overall make you feel comfortable on board the adventure! He works strictly of tips and the tip you give for the trip will go straight to him! Feel free to bring food and drinks of your choice as well as a cooler to bring home your day’s catch. Come on down to Destin, Florida and make some memories with Captain Tyler and his crew! Read More

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Destin

Bad To The Bone Destin Trip

NEW
40 ft 1 - 6 People $$$
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
trip description for Overnighter Under the Stars in Destin

Prepare to enter the “Land of the Giant Fish” on this 1, 2, or 3 day adventure with Captain Matthew! You’ll be reaching the further reaches of the gulf (180+ miles) on this overnight charter, fishing the offshore rigs and drill ships in as deep as 12,000 feet of water. These waters are very productive for Yellowfin Tuna, but there’s no end to what you could catch. Blue Marlin, White Marlin, Dorado (Mahi Mahi), Sailfish, Red Snapper (depending on the season), Tilefish, Grouper, and many other species will be on the menu as well. Captain Matthew is more than happy to accommodate your day’s goals and interests. No matter if you strictly want to target one species, fish tag and release using live tunas (typically for Marlins), or make it a Captain’s choice, Captain Matthew will lead the way! For these trips, Captain Matthew uses a 42 ft Buddy Davis sportfishing boat. It has ample space for your group (6 anglers max) to have a five-star fishing experience. The boat cruises a hair under 30 knots thanks to her Twin Cummins QSM-11 engines which kick out well over a combined 1,200 HP. The list of features aboard this beauty can be fairly summed up as “everything.” Inside, you will find a full head (restroom), galley (lounge), and cabins with bunk beds, all blissfully air-conditioned. Up on deck, you have outriggers, downriggers, tuna tubes, live wells, a fighting chair, and all the rods, reels, and tackle you’ll need to have a productive day on the water. Captain Matthew will provide all bait and fishing licenses as well. Get ready for a monster day on the water with Captain Matthew! Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Destin

Overnighter Under The Stars

NEW
42 ft 1 - 6 People $$$
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
trip description for Rodeo Fishing Special Trip in Destin

Join Captain Matthew on an action-packed outdoor adventure in Destin, Florida! Get more bang for your buck when you book a trip with him in October during the Destin Rodeo. Established in 1948, this is the tournament that made Destin the world famous fishing hotspot it is today. Come see what all the hype is about! Captain Matthew will help you catch Marlin, Sailfish, Wahoo, Dorado (Mahi Mahi), and even Yellowfin Tuna as you travel 45-60 miles offshore. You can also fish deep reefs for Scamp Grouper, Red Snapper and Vermilion Snapper (depending on the season), and Amberjack. For these trips, Captain Matthew uses a 42 ft Buddy Davis sportfishing boat. It has ample space for your group (6 anglers max) to have a five-star fishing experience. The boat cruises a hair under 30 knots thanks to her Twin Cummins QSM-11 engines which kick out well over a combined 1,200 HP. The list of features aboard this beauty can be fairly summed up as “everything.” Inside, you will find a full head (restroom), galley (lounge), and cabins with bunk beds, all blissfully air-conditioned. Up on deck, you have outriggers, downriggers, tuna tubes, live wells, a fighting chair, and all the rods, reels, and tackle you’ll need to have a productive day on the water. Captain Matthew will provide all bait and fishing licenses as well. Bring food and drinks for the day as well as a cooler to take home your day’s catch. Get ready for a monster day on the water with Captain Matthew! Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Destin

Rodeo Fishing Special Trip

NEW
42 ft 1 - 6 People $$$
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 $$$
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
trip description for Chasing Trophies in Destin in Destin

Head out for a full day 12-hour adventure with Captain Lane to go DEEEEP to hunt trophy size fish the blue waters are known for! For these trips you'll start your day well before sunrise, usually around 5am, as you climb aboard Captain Lane's absolute War Rig. His 42' Freeman Catamaran is built for offshore fishing, overnight runs out to the hump, and landing monster pelagics. For these 12 hour trips, you can run anywhere from 25-90 miles offshore! But don't fret a laborious slow trug offshore... with 4 300 Yamahas strapped to the stern this rig can cook up to 65 knots to make sure you waste no time getting out to Captain Lane's favorite offshore spot and gives you more time to fish on the back end as the ride is quicker back to the dock. You can talk with Captain Lane about your experience level, target species, and other comfort preferences before you make the run, so ultimately you have the say in how far offshore you'd like to run. But if weather conditions are right, and you're up for a voyage, this 12 hour trips is where a lot of dreams come true, and where truly fantastic catches can be made. Heading 60+ miles offshore, standard offshore species are all well with a range like Amberjack, Mahi Mahi, Big Red and Gag Grouper, Wahoo, Sailfish and Blackfin Tuna. But on top, the extra time opens the door to deep water species like Yellow Fin Tuna, Marlin, and even Swordfish. By no means are any of these species a shoo-in for your 12-hour trip, but the odds of catching a big game fish like that do exist. It's that chance, that chase, that catch (hopefully) that attracts avid fishermen to this trip. Captain Lane will provide all rods, reels, tackle, and fishing licenses. All you need to bring is sunglasses, sunscreen, a lunch, and any snacks or drinks you'd like to enjoy while onboard. Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Destin

Chasing Trophies In Destin

NEW
42 ft 1 - 6 People $$$
See All Sailfish Trips in Destin

Everything to Know About Booking a Destin sailfish fishing charter

What are the best sailfish fishing charters in Destin?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 19 sailfish trips in Destin, and the most popular trips in the area are Combo - Reef/Trolling guided by Brantley, Spring Offshore Special guided by Matthew, and Destin Full-Day Fish Fest guided by Harold.

Our guides in Destin are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 2542 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 sailfish guides / fishing lessons in Destin? Check out our beginner and family friendly sailfish guides in Destin.

What types of sailfish fishing charters are common in Destin?

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular for sailfish in Destin as well as nearshore fishing.

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

How much do Destin sailfish fishing charters cost?

for sailfish in Destin prices can range anywhere from about $1,550 to $6,930, but the average price for a half day trip for sailfish in Destin is $1,328. The average price for a full day trip for sailfish in Destin is $4,107.

What month is best for sailfish fishing in Destin?

The most popular season for sailfish fishing in Destin is summer, and most anglers book their trips 32 days in advance.

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

You’re in luck! Our fishing tours in Destin don’t require you to purchase a fishing license – your group is covered by your boat’s captain. See here for more information on bag limits and fishing season regulations in Destin.

What is sailfish fishing in Destin all about?

Sailfish are one of the most sought-after gamefish species in Destin, known for their impressive speed, acrobatic leaps, and strikingly vibrant appearance. These majestic fish inhabit the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico and are typically found in offshore waters, often near the continental shelf where they feed on baitfish like sardines, mullet, and flying fish. Anglers in Destin can target sailfish by trolling with live bait, such as ballyhoo or mullet, as well as with artificial lures like skirts, plugs, and rigged baits. Trolling at varying speeds and depths can help increase the chances of enticing a sailfish strike.

While sailfish can be found in the waters off Destin year-round, the peak season for targeting these elusive fish typically occurs during the late spring and summer months when water temperatures rise and baitfish concentrations increase. During this time, sailfish migrate closer to shore in pursuit of food, providing anglers with ample opportunities to encounter these prized gamefish. Additionally, favorable weather conditions and calm seas often accompany the peak sailfish season, making for ideal fishing conditions offshore.

When targeting sailfish in Destin, anglers often rely on a combination of traditional trolling techniques and advanced fishing tactics to maximize their chances of success. Anglers may deploy multiple lines with different baits and lures to cover a larger area and increase the likelihood of attracting a sailfish. Once hooked, sailfish put up a fierce fight, often showcasing their impressive aerial displays and lightning-fast runs. Experienced anglers in Destin know to maintain steady pressure on the fish while carefully maneuvering the boat to prevent the sailfish from escaping or breaking off the line. With its abundance of sailfish and prime offshore fishing grounds, Destin offers anglers an unforgettable experience chasing these iconic gamefish in the deep blue waters of the Gulf.

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

In Destin, the sailfish season typically peaks during the late spring and summer months, spanning from April to September. During this period, warmer water temperatures and favorable weather conditions create optimal conditions for sailfish to migrate closer to shore in search of prey. Sailfish are known to follow schools of baitfish, such as sardines, mullet, and flying fish, which become more abundant in the Gulf waters during the warmer months. As a result, anglers in Destin have increased opportunities to encounter sailfish during these prime fishing months.

While sailfish can be found in Destin's waters year-round, their presence is most pronounced during the peak season due to the influx of baitfish and favorable environmental factors. During this time, sailfish can be spotted hunting near the surface, often in areas with strong currents, upwellings, and temperature breaks. Anglers targeting sailfish in Destin during the peak season may find success trolling offshore waters, particularly around underwater structures, drop-offs, and the continental shelf where sailfish are known to congregate.

Although the late spring and summer months mark the peak sailfish season in Destin, sailfish can still be caught in the area during the fall and winter months, albeit in smaller numbers. Cooler water temperatures may push sailfish farther offshore or to deeper waters, requiring anglers to adjust their fishing techniques accordingly. Despite the variations in sailfish activity throughout the year, Destin remains a premier destination for sailfish enthusiasts seeking thrilling offshore angling adventures amidst the stunning backdrop of the Gulf of Mexico.

What techniques are popular for catching sailfish in Destin?

Sailfish fishing in Destin often involves a combination of traditional trolling techniques and advanced angling strategies tailored to the behavior of these fast and elusive fish. Trolling is a popular method used by anglers to cover a large area of water and present a variety of baits and lures to attract sailfish. Anglers typically deploy multiple lines rigged with natural baits like ballyhoo, mullet, or squid, as well as artificial lures such as skirts, plugs, and rigged baits. Varying the trolling speed and depth can help mimic the erratic movements of baitfish, increasing the chances of enticing a sailfish strike.

Another effective technique for targeting sailfish in Destin is live bait fishing. Anglers often use live baitfish like pilchards, goggle eyes, or threadfin herring to mimic natural prey and elicit a predatory response from sailfish. Live bait can be slow-trolled or drifted along current edges, drop-offs, and underwater structures where sailfish are known to congregate. Keeping the bait lively and swimming naturally is essential for enticing sailfish to strike, requiring anglers to use proper rigging techniques and tackle to ensure a successful hookup.

Once a sailfish is hooked, anglers must employ proper fighting techniques to successfully land the fish. Sailfish are renowned for their acrobatic leaps and blistering runs, putting anglers' skills and equipment to the test. Anglers in Destin must maintain steady pressure on the fish while carefully maneuvering the boat to prevent the sailfish from escaping or breaking off the line. Experienced anglers often use heavy tackle, such as stout rods and reels spooled with strong monofilament or braided line, to withstand the intense fight of a sailfish. With its abundance of sailfish and prime offshore fishing grounds, Destin offers anglers an exhilarating experience chasing these iconic gamefish in the deep blue waters of the Gulf.

What other species are popular in Destin?

Aside from sailfish, Destin offers a diverse range of fishing opportunities for anglers targeting various species throughout the year. One popular target species in Destin is the prized red snapper, known for its delicious flavor and challenging fight. Red snapper season typically occurs during the summer months, when anglers can venture offshore to target these coveted reef-dwelling fish. Using bottom fishing techniques with live or cut bait near artificial reefs, wrecks, and ledges, anglers can hook into sizable red snapper, providing both excitement and a tasty reward.

Another sought-after species in Destin is the mahi mahi, also known as dolphin fish or dorado. Mahi mahi are abundant in the warm Gulf waters during the spring and summer months, offering anglers thrilling offshore action. Anglers often target mahi mahi by trolling offshore waters with a variety of baits and lures, including ballyhoo, squid, and brightly colored skirts. These colorful and acrobatic fish provide anglers with exciting battles and are prized for their delicious, mild-tasting flesh, making them a popular catch among anglers and seafood enthusiasts alike.

In addition to sailfish, red snapper, and mahi mahi, anglers in Destin have the opportunity to target a wide array of other species, including grouper, amberjack, king mackerel, and cobia, among others. Whether fishing nearshore reefs and wrecks or venturing offshore to deeper waters, anglers can enjoy a variety of angling experiences and encounters with different species throughout the year. With its rich marine biodiversity and access to productive fishing grounds, Destin remains a premier destination for anglers seeking memorable fishing adventures in the Gulf of Mexico.

Recent Reviews of Captain Experiences

  • ★★★★★
    The trip was great. Captain Chuck is awesome. Your website and the information you provide needs to be better. This message was sent to me to at 3am before we even left for our trip.

    Onnallee G. with Lw B. of Destin, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Matt and his deckhand, Steve were very competent and professional. We had 8 lines out trolling for most of the 14 hour day. Steve even continued on with a good laceration on his hand from the first wahoo we caught. We landed two wahoos and didn’t get many more bites even though they had us constantly trolling with many lines in the water. Matt is a good fisherman and I’ve been out with many over the years. We would definitely recommend them as a competent pelagic fishing operation.

    Charles M. with Matthew C. of Destin, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    5 stars for Harold and his deck hand Dominique apologizes I probably spelled your name wrong. Caught a lot of fish very friendly. Thank you for taking care of me (I got sick) and more importantly my children they had a blast and that’s what life is all about those memories!!! Will definitely contact again if I’m the area

    Michelle M. with Harold S. of Destin, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Capt Harold and the mates Dominique and Cayden were just awesome!! They were very accommodating and always helpful! Capt Harold enaured we caught our limit. It was a great day!!

    Michelle C. with Harold S. of Destin, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Outstanding boat captain and deck hand. These guys were the best we have ever had. The rewind will see us again as long as the two guys that took us are there. Great job guys and hope to see you guys soon. I would tell anybody that want to go offshore fishing to book the rewind with these guys.

    Brooks A. with Reid P. of Destin, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip!

    Jordan M. with Matthew C. of Destin, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great captain, josh was also great, I would definitely go out with these guys again

    Larry E. with Brantley G. of Destin, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    It was great even though we had a little bad weather. The Captain was awesome and put use on fish right when we left. The deck hand was great and helped everyone out and kept us going. I would so use them again and again.

    James C. with Harold S. of Destin, Florida

What's biting in Destin?

View Sailfish 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 licensed, insured and vetted by our team of outdoor experts who know them on a first-name basis. We hand pick our Damn Good Guides, and our network spans all across the country 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 Sailfish Trips in Destin