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Recently Booked Mahi Mahi Fishing Charters Near Fort Walton Beach, Fl
Flats, Inshore, Jetty, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Fort Walton Beach
Gulf Fishing Adventure
Flats, Inshore, Jetty, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Fort Walton Beach
Captain's Discretion
Most Popular Types of Mahi Mahi Trips in Fort Walton Beach
“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.”
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More Mahi Mahi Fishing Charters Near Fort Walton Beach, Fl
Climb aboard Captain Matthew's sportfisher for an action-packed close offshore adventure! After launching from the dock, you will ride out of Destin Pass and start our fishing trip. For these 4-6 hour trips you can travel up to 15 miles offshore. The beauty of Destin however is that the deep water is easily accessible within that distance. So even on a half or 3/4 day adventure like this one you can still hook into some monster (and delicious) fish! Usually, you will troll on your ride out. While trolling with Captain Matthew, you may have a chance to catch many species, such as King Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel, and Bonitas. These are the more common fish. Other species you might encounter as well are Wahoos, Mahi Mahi, Blackfin Tunas, Barracudas, and Sailfish. During your travel out to deeper water, the mates will be working to make sure you are ready to go when we get to our fishing spot. They will be cutting bait, getting rods ready, and teaching you the basics of fishing school. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a complete novice, Captain Matthew and his crew are very patient and do the best job possible to make sure you are trained up and ready to go. Once you arrive at our fishing destination, Captain Matthew will have you fishing for different species in various ways, depending on what you're after! When we are finished fishing, we will head back home. During this travel time, we will also troll. When we get back to the dock, we will unload fish and your belongings. Your mates will hang up your fish and this is the time for you to take pictures of your catch! After pictures, the mates will clean and bag your fish for you to take home and enjoy. Beyond an outstanding Captain at its helm, Matthew's vessel also comes loaded with all the fishing gear you could possibly need for a successful day out on the water. So all you need to bring is your sun protection, snacks, drinks, and a tip for the mates, and Captain Matthew and his crew will take care of the rest to ensure you have the best experience out on the water. Read More
If you’ve never caught a Marlin before, today is the day to check it off your bucket list! This trip is for the more experienced anglers who enjoy the thrill of catching those trophy-sized billfish, and there's no better guide to lead you on this excursion than Captain Matthew! You’ll travel between 40-65 miles off the Florida coast in search of Blue Marlin and White Marlin as well as Sailfish. You might also get bites from Wahoo and Dorado (Mahi Mahi) along 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
Looking for an unforgettable fishing adventure in the beautiful waters of Destin, Florida? Look no further than Captain Richie's offshore trolling trips! Captain Richie has years of experience and a passion for fishing that is contagious. With his 48ft Morris Sportfisher, he'll take you out to the FADS (Fish Aggregating Devices) where the big fish are biting. This trip is definitely catered toward the more experienced fisherman. He'll provide you with top-of-the-line equipment and expert guidance, so you can relax and enjoy the thrill of the catch. With a variety of fish to catch, including tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi, and more, you'll have the opportunity to reel in a trophy-sized fish and make memories that will last a lifetime. The 48ft Morris Sportfisher is a state-of-the-art vessel equipped with the latest technology and safety features. You'll enjoy a comfortable ride with plenty of room to move around and relax. And with Captain Richie at the helm, you'll feel safe and secure knowing you're in the hands of an experienced captain. So, what are you waiting for? Book your offshore trolling trip with Captain Richie today and experience the thrill of fishing in the beautiful waters of Destin, Florida. You won't be disappointed! Read More
If you're looking for an amazing offshore fishing trip here in Gulf Breeze, look no further than Captain Zach and his 34' Newman sportfisher. With years of experience fishing in the Gulf of Mexico, Captain Zach knows all the best spots for a successful day on the water! On this offshore fishing charter, you can expect to catch a variety of species, from pelagics such as Mahi Mahi and Blackfin Tuna to bottomfish species such as Groupers and Snappers. All of these fish are a blast to catch, and great to eat! Whether you're looking for a wall-hanger trophy or just hoping to catch dinner, you'll be in the right place with Captain Zach. Captain Zach will provide all the necessary equipment, including rods, reels, and bait, so you can focus on reeling in the big ones. His 34' Newman sportfisher is a comfortable and spacious vessel, with plenty of room for you and your group to relax and enjoy the scenery. With twin Isuzu engines, you'll be able to quickly reach the best fishing spots. Whether you're an experienced angler or a first-timer, Captain Zach will provide expert guidance and instruction throughout your trip. With his help, you'll be sure to have a memorable and successful day of fishing in Gulf Breeze! Read More
Head further offshore to explore the Destin's prolific Gulf waters anywhere from 18-25 miles offshore! These 8 hour trips give Captain Kyle more time to implement a couple different techniques to catch different pools of species. Trolling these offshore waters can solicit a Mahi, Wahoo, Mackerel, or even a Tuna bite, while bottom fishing Captain Kyle's favorite reefs and offshore structure opens the door to a plethora of species like Grouper, Snapper, and Big Jacks. This trip is a great experience to catch some fish to bring home or to reel in just for a photo! Read More
No matter the time of year, there is always something to catch in Destin FL! Captain Jonathan has been fishing these waters year-round and is an expert on fish habits through changing seasons. For these winter trips inshore, banner days can be had on Redfish, Trout, and Flounder. Most of the redfish are going to be slot-sized and limits can certainly be had. Big bull reds are slightly fewer and further between often lurking in the open water. To chase these, Captain Jonathan will scout the bays and shorelines for birds corralling schools of baitfish. These giant reds like to sit under these schools and get an easy meal. You can also target Bluefish, Mangrove Snapper, and the occasional Shark in the inshore water this time of year. If the weather permits, make your way into the nearshore waters to go after some Amberjack, Cobia, Goliath Grouper, Jack Crevalle, King Mackerel, Mahi Mahi, and various Snapper species. You can use a variety of techniques to target these fish, and this vessel is equipped to handle bottom fishing, drift fishing, heavy tackle, jigging, light tackle, and trolling. Just let Captain Jonathan know what you want to catch and he'll get you squared away with the best method! Captain Jonathan will meet you at the dock with a fully loaded 22' Cape Horn bay boat. Powered by a 250 HP Evinrude engine, this sturdy vessel will have no problem maneuvering the inshore Destin waters. She's equipped with a GPS, Fishfinder, a Live Bait Well, Multimedia System, Wireless Trolling Motor, and an Ice Box to store your catches. Captain Jonathon will even clean any keepers you bring in at the dock. Captain Jonathan will provide all Rods, Reels, Tackle, Bait and Fishing licenses you will need for a wonderful fall day out on the water. You can expect temps to be in the 40-60 degree range in the wintertime so make sure you bring a jacket and your favorite snacks and drinks. Captain Jonathan will take care of the rest to ensure you have an outstanding day out on the water! Read More
Everything to Know About Booking a Fort Walton Beach mahi mahi fishing charter
What are the best mahi mahi fishing charters in Fort Walton Beach?
Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 83 mahi mahi trips in Fort Walton Beach, and the most popular trips in the area are Gulf Fishing Adventure guided by Joey, Bad-to-the-Bone Full Day Trip guided by Justin, and Badass Overnight Bluewater guided by Justin.
Our guides in Fort Walton Beach are rated a 4.97 out of 5 based on 2565 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 mahi mahi guides / fishing lessons in Fort Walton Beach? Check out our beginner and family friendly mahi mahi guides in Fort Walton Beach.
What types of mahi mahi fishing charters are common in Fort Walton Beach?
Deep Sea fishing is the most popular for mahi mahi in Fort Walton Beach as well as nearshore fishing, inshore fishing, and jetty fishing.
The most common fishing techniques in Fort Walton Beach are bottom fishing, trolling, and heavy tackle fishing but light tackle fishing and live bait fishing are popular as well.
How much do Fort Walton Beach mahi mahi fishing charters cost?
for mahi mahi in Fort Walton Beach prices can range anywhere from about $940 to $7,377, but the average price for a half day trip for mahi mahi in Fort Walton Beach is $1,579. The average price for a full day trip for mahi mahi in Fort Walton Beach is $4,123.
What month is best for mahi mahi fishing in Fort Walton Beach?
The most popular season for mahi mahi fishing in Fort Walton Beach is summer, and most anglers book their trips 13 days in advance.
Do I need a Fort Walton Beach fishing license for mahi mahi and what are the bag limits for mahi mahi in Fort Walton Beach?
You’re in luck! Our fishing tours in Fort Walton Beach 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 Fort Walton Beach.
What is mahi mahi fishing in Fort Walton Beach all about?
In Fort Walton Beach, mahi-mahi, also known as dolphin fish or dorado, are a prized catch for anglers venturing into the offshore waters of the Gulf of Mexico. These colorful and acrobatic fish are known for their vibrant hues, dazzling leaps, and delicious flesh, making them a highly sought-after species among both recreational and commercial fishermen. Mahi-mahi can be found in the warm, blue waters off the coast of Fort Walton Beach, particularly around floating debris, weed lines, and offshore structures where they feed on baitfish and squid.
During the warmer months, mahi-mahi migrate closer to shore in pursuit of baitfish, offering anglers abundant opportunities to hook into these prized game fish. Fort Walton Beach becomes a hotspot for mahi-mahi fishing as these fish move into shallower waters, providing anglers with thrilling battles and the chance to reel in trophy-sized specimens. Anglers targeting mahi-mahi in Fort Walton Beach often employ trolling techniques with brightly colored lures or live bait to entice strikes from these vibrant and powerful fish.
Mahi-mahi fishing in Fort Walton Beach offers anglers the chance to experience the thrill of hooking into one of the ocean's fastest and most beautiful fish. Whether trolling offshore or casting around floating debris, anglers can enjoy the excitement of pursuing mahi-mahi against the stunning backdrop of the Gulf Coast's azure waters. With their dazzling colors, acrobatic leaps, and delicious flesh, mahi-mahi provide anglers in Fort Walton Beach with a thrilling angling experience and the opportunity to create lasting memories on the water.
What are the most popular months to fish for mahi mahi fishing in Fort Walton Beach?
In Fort Walton Beach, the mahi-mahi fishing season follows the patterns of migration and water temperatures typical of the Gulf of Mexico. Spring marks the beginning of prime mahi-mahi season as these fish become more active with the warming waters. During this time, mahi-mahi migrate closer to shore in pursuit of baitfish, offering anglers abundant opportunities to hook into these prized game fish. Fort Walton Beach becomes a hotspot for mahi-mahi fishing as these fish move into shallower waters, providing anglers with thrilling battles and the chance to reel in trophy-sized specimens.
As summer settles in and temperatures rise, mahi-mahi fishing in Fort Walton Beach continues to thrive, particularly offshore. Mahi-mahi can be found in large schools around offshore reefs, wrecks, and floating debris, where they feed voraciously on baitfish and squid. Anglers targeting mahi-mahi during the summer months often employ trolling techniques with brightly colored lures or live bait to entice strikes from these vibrant and powerful fish. Additionally, anglers may encounter mahi-mahi while targeting other offshore species such as king mackerel or sailfish, providing additional excitement and variety to their fishing trips.
Fall heralds the end of the prime mahi-mahi season in Fort Walton Beach as cooling temperatures trigger a decline in activity and a shift in migratory patterns. While mahi-mahi may still be caught offshore during the early fall months, their numbers and activity levels typically decrease as they move to deeper waters in search of cooler temperatures. Nonetheless, dedicated anglers can still find success targeting mahi-mahi offshore throughout the fall, albeit with some adjustments in tactics and locations. Whether during the height of summer or the transition into fall, the mahi-mahi seasons in Fort Walton Beach offer anglers thrilling opportunities to pursue these fast-paced and colorful predators in the waters of the Gulf Coast.
What techniques are popular for catching mahi mahi in Fort Walton Beach?
In Fort Walton Beach, anglers utilize a variety of effective techniques to target mahi-mahi in the offshore waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Trolling is perhaps the most common and productive method for mahi-mahi fishing in Fort Walton Beach. Anglers deploy a spread of brightly colored lures, such as skirted trolling lures or diving plugs, behind the boat at varying distances and depths. This technique allows anglers to cover large areas of water and present their baits at different levels in the water column, increasing their chances of enticing strikes from mahi-mahi cruising near the surface or below.
Another effective technique for targeting mahi-mahi in Fort Walton Beach is live bait fishing. Anglers often use live bait such as small fish, squid, or ballyhoo to entice strikes from mahi-mahi. This method can be particularly effective when fishing around floating debris, weed lines, or offshore structures where mahi-mahi are known to congregate. Anglers can either drift with the current or anchor near these productive areas and present their live bait using a variety of rigging techniques to mimic the natural movement of prey.
Additionally, casting and jigging can be productive techniques for targeting mahi-mahi in Fort Walton Beach, particularly when fishing around floating debris or weed lines. Anglers can cast artificial lures such as spoons, jigs, or topwater plugs into areas where mahi-mahi are actively feeding, enticing strikes with fast and erratic retrieves. Vertical jigging with heavy metal jigs can also be effective for targeting mahi-mahi over deep offshore structures such as wrecks or oil rigs. Whether trolling, live bait fishing, or casting and jigging, anglers in Fort Walton Beach have a variety of techniques at their disposal to pursue the thrilling challenge of targeting mahi-mahi in the Gulf waters.
What other species are popular in Fort Walton Beach?
While mahi-mahi offer an exciting fishing opportunity in Fort Walton Beach, anglers have a wide array of other species to target for an equally thrilling experience. One notable species is the king mackerel, also known as kingfish, which are prized for their speed, strength, and delicious flesh. Kingfish can be found in the offshore waters of the Gulf of Mexico, particularly around reefs, wrecks, and offshore structures where they feed on baitfish. Anglers targeting kingfish in Fort Walton Beach often use trolling techniques with fast-moving lures or live bait to entice strikes from these swift predators.
Another popular species to target in Fort Walton Beach is the red snapper, prized for its delicious flavor and strong fighting ability. Red snapper inhabit the offshore reefs and wrecks off the coast of Fort Walton Beach, providing anglers with ample opportunities to hook into these prized fish. Anglers commonly use live bait such as squid or cigar minnows, as well as artificial lures like jigs or soft plastics, to entice strikes from red snapper lurking in the depths. Red snapper season in Fort Walton Beach typically opens in the summer months, allowing anglers to target these coveted fish during the peak of their spawning season.
In addition to king mackerel and red snapper, Fort Walton Beach offers opportunities to target a variety of other species, including grouper, amberjack, and cobia, among others. Grouper, with their formidable size and impressive fighting ability, are commonly found around offshore reefs and rocky ledges, providing anglers with thrilling battles. Amberjack, known for their brute strength and hard-fighting nature, are often found around wrecks and oil rigs offshore, providing anglers with challenging and rewarding angling experiences. Cobia, prized for their delicious flesh and powerful runs, can be found cruising along the surface near buoys or weed lines, offering anglers exciting opportunities for sight fishing. Whether targeting mahi-mahi or exploring the diverse array of other species in Fort Walton Beach, anglers are sure to find plenty of excitement and adventure on the water.
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Other Fishing Species in Fort Walton Beach
- Almaco Jack
- Amberjack
- Barracuda
- Black Drum
- Blackfin Tuna
- Blacktip Shark
- Blue Marlin
- Bluefish
- Bonito
- Bull Shark
- Channel Catfish
- Cobia
- False Albacore
- Florida Pompano
- Flounder
- Gag Grouper
- Jack Crevalle
- Kingfish
- Ladyfish
- Lane Snapper
- Mako Shark
- Mangrove Snapper
- Ray
- Red Grouper
- Red Snapper
- Redfish
- Scamp Grouper
- Sheepshead
- Snowy Grouper
- Spadefish
- Spanish Mackerel
- Speckled Trout
- Stingray
- Swordfish
- Tarpon
- Tilefish
- Triggerfish
- Tripletail
- Vermillion Snapper
- Wahoo
- Yellowfin Tuna
Other Hunting Species in Fort Walton Beach
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What's biting in Fort Walton Beach?
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