Damn Good Mahi Mahi Fishing Charters In Santa Rosa Beach

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Recently Booked Mahi Mahi Fishing Charters In Santa Rosa Beach, Fl

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Santa Rosa Beach

Destin Bluewater Trip

100% (2)
31 ft 1 - 6 People From $3,500
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Santa Rosa Beach

Into The Deep: Destin Offshore

100% (2)
31 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,200
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter near Santa Rosa Beach

Destin Grocery Run - 40’ Infinity

NEW
40 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,300
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter near Santa Rosa Beach

Offshore Fishing

100% (13)
40 ft 1 - 6 People From $3,840
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter near Santa Rosa Beach

Destin's Craziest Catches

100% (2)
52 ft 1 - 19 People From $3,150
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter near Santa Rosa Beach

Deep Sea In Destin - 40’ Infinity

NEW
40 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,300

Top Types of Mahi Mahi Trips in Santa Rosa Beach

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Target Species in Santa Rosa Beach

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More Mahi Mahi Fishing Charters In Santa Rosa Beach, Fl

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter near Santa Rosa Beach

Destin Trolling & Bottom Fishing

100% (13)
40 ft 1 - 6 People From $2,560
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter near Santa Rosa Beach

Full Day 8-12 Hours

100% (3)
52 ft 1 - 12 People From $2,800
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter near Santa Rosa Beach

10 Hour Extended Offshore

100% (4)
50 ft 1 - 6 People From $3,000
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter near Santa Rosa Beach

8 Hour Full Day

100% (4)
50 ft 1 - 6 People From $2,400
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter near Santa Rosa Beach

Big Group Bay Trip

100% (1)
21 ft 1 - 5 People From $940
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter near Santa Rosa Beach

Deep Sea-Nearshore Gulf Experience

100% (2)
32 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,040
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Everything to Know About Booking a Santa Rosa Beach mahi mahi fishing charter

What are the best mahi mahi fishing charters in Santa Rosa Beach?

Why should I book a mahi mahi fishing charter in Santa Rosa Beach with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 90 mahi mahi trips in Santa Rosa Beach, and the most popular trips in the area are Into the Deep: Destin Offshore guided by Nick and Destin Bluewater Trip guided by Nick.

Our guides in Santa Rosa Beach are rated a 4.89 out of 5 based on 3806 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are 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 Santa Rosa Beach? Check out our beginner and family friendly mahi mahi guides in Santa Rosa Beach.

What types of mahi mahi fishing charters are common in Santa Rosa Beach?

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular type of fishing for mahi mahi in Santa Rosa Beach as well as nearshore fishing, inshore fishing, and jetty fishing.

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

How much do Santa Rosa Beach mahi mahi fishing charters cost?

Prices for mahi mahi in Santa Rosa Beach can range anywhere from about $1,125 to $7,650, but the average price for a half day trip for mahi mahi in Santa Rosa Beach is $1,856. The average price for a full day trip for mahi mahi in Santa Rosa Beach is $4,503.

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 mahi mahi fishing in Santa Rosa Beach?

The most popular season for mahi mahi fishing in Santa Rosa Beach is summer, and most anglers book their trips 12 days in advance.

Do I need a Santa Rosa Beach fishing license for mahi mahi and what are the bag limits for mahi mahi in Santa Rosa Beach?

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

What is mahi mahi fishing in Florida all about?

Mahi-mahi, also known as dolphin fish or dorado, are a highly sought-after species in the waters off the coast of Florida. With their vibrant colors, including electric blues, vibrant greens, and golden hues, mahi-mahi are not only stunning to behold but also offer an exciting fishing experience. These pelagic fish are commonly found in warm offshore waters, often congregating around floating debris, weed lines, and offshore structures where they feed on smaller fish, squid, and crustaceans.

Fishing for mahi-mahi in Florida is a thrilling pursuit that attracts anglers from around the world. One of the most popular techniques for targeting these fast-swimming predators is trolling with artificial lures or rigged baits. Anglers trail their offerings behind a slow-moving boat, covering large areas of water in search of active fish. Mahi-mahi are known for their aggressive strikes, often leaping out of the water in pursuit of the bait, providing anglers with heart-pounding moments and exhilarating battles once hooked.

Beyond their sporting qualities, mahi-mahi are prized for their delicious taste and versatility in the kitchen. With firm, mild-flavored flesh, mahi-mahi can be prepared in a variety of ways, from grilling and searing to baking and frying. Their vibrant colors and succulent texture make them a favorite among seafood enthusiasts, whether enjoyed fresh as sushi or incorporated into gourmet dishes. With their combination of stunning beauty, thrilling angling opportunities, and delectable flavor, mahi-mahi continue to hold a special place in Florida's rich fishing culture.

What are the most popular months to fish for mahi mahi in Florida?

Mahi-mahi, often simply referred to as mahi, are a prized species found in the warm waters off the coast of Florida. These colorful and highly migratory fish, with their striking combination of vibrant greens, blues, and golds, are not only a sight to behold but also a thrilling catch for anglers. Mahi-mahi are commonly found near offshore weed lines, floating debris, and underwater structures where they feed on smaller fish, squid, and crustaceans, making them accessible targets for fishermen exploring Florida's diverse marine environments.

Fishing for mahi-mahi in Florida is an exciting endeavor that appeals to both seasoned anglers and newcomers alike. One of the most popular methods for targeting mahi involves trolling with a spread of artificial lures or rigged baits behind a slow-moving boat. This allows anglers to cover large areas of water and locate schools of mahi actively feeding near the surface. Mahi are known for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic leaps when hooked, providing anglers with exhilarating battles and memorable moments on the water.

Aside from their sporting qualities, mahi-mahi are also prized for their delicious taste and versatility in the kitchen. With firm, flavorful flesh that ranges from white to pinkish-red, mahi can be prepared in a variety of ways, including grilling, baking, or pan-searing. Their mild flavor profile makes them a favorite among seafood lovers, whether served fresh as ceviche or incorporated into tacos, salads, or grilled sandwiches. With their stunning appearance, thrilling angling opportunities, and delectable flavor, mahi-mahi hold a special place in Florida's vibrant fishing culture.

What techniques are popular for catching mahi mahi in Florida?

Fishing for mahi-mahi in Florida waters requires employing effective techniques to attract and hook these fast-swimming pelagic fish. One of the most popular methods for targeting mahi involves trolling, where anglers trail a spread of artificial lures or rigged baits behind a slow-moving boat. This technique allows anglers to cover large areas of water and locate mahi congregating near floating debris, weed lines, or offshore structures where they feed on smaller fish and crustaceans. Mahi are known for their aggressive strikes, often leaping out of the water in pursuit of the bait, providing anglers with thrilling moments and exhilarating battles once hooked.

Another productive technique for mahi-mahi fishing in Florida is casting or live bait fishing around floating debris, weed lines, or buoys where mahi are known to congregate. Anglers can present live baitfish, such as pilchards or small mullet, or cast artificial lures such as poppers, jigs, or plugs to entice mahi into striking. This method allows for more hands-on angling experiences and can be particularly effective when targeting larger mahi or when fishing in areas with high fish activity.

Additionally, anglers targeting mahi-mahi in Florida waters often keep an eye out for birds, which can indicate the presence of feeding fish below the surface. Seabirds such as frigatebirds, terns, and gulls often hover over schools of baitfish being pursued by mahi, providing valuable visual cues for anglers. By trolling or casting near areas where birds are actively feeding, anglers can increase their chances of encountering mahi and enjoying a successful day on the water. Overall, mastering these techniques and adapting to changing conditions are essential skills for anglers seeking to hook into the thrilling experience of mahi-mahi fishing in Florida's abundant offshore waters.

What other species are popular in Florida?

Beyond mahi-mahi, Florida's diverse coastal waters offer a wealth of other species for anglers to target, ensuring a rewarding and varied fishing experience. One notable species is the snook, a prized gamefish known for its elusive nature and powerful fighting ability. Found in the state's brackish and saltwater estuaries, as well as along coastal beaches and inlets, snook are often targeted by anglers using live bait, artificial lures, or fly fishing techniques. Their aggressive strikes and acrobatic leaps when hooked make them a thrilling catch for anglers of all skill levels.

Another popular option for anglers in Florida is the redfish, also known as red drum, which inhabit the state's shallow coastal waters, flats, and mangrove-lined shorelines. Recognizable by their distinctive copper-colored scales and characteristic black spot near the tail, redfish provide exciting angling opportunities year-round. Anglers typically target redfish using live bait such as shrimp or mullet, as well as artificial lures like spoons, soft plastics, and topwater plugs. Their strong fighting ability and willingness to take a variety of presentations make them a favorite among inshore anglers.

For those venturing offshore, Florida's deep waters are home to a variety of pelagic species such as sailfish, wahoo, and king mackerel. These fast-swimming predators offer thrilling battles and rewarding catches for anglers trolling with artificial lures or rigged baits. Whether targeting inshore species like snook and redfish, or venturing offshore for pelagic gamefish, Florida's diverse fisheries provide anglers with endless opportunities to explore and enjoy the state's abundant marine resources.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Great time for some first timers! Tyler and Allen were awesome with their instruction and knowledge about the sport. We will be back!!

    Stephanie R. | November 28, 2024

    Trip: Fishing with Capt Tyler 4-12hrs!

  • ★★★★★
    Tim was great! He made sure we caught lots of fish. The toilet on the boat wasn’t working but I’m still giving 5 stars for Tim!

    Lindsey M. | October 18, 2024

    Trip: 4-8 hr Offshore Fishing (Federal)

  • ★★★★★
    We did not go with Captain Robert. We went with Captain Tim. Captain Robert called me the day before the trip to confirm the fishing trip and our plan for the day. We were to meet at the dock at 6:00. The day of the trip, Captain Robert texted me and said we would leave at 7:00 due to the weather. On the way to the dock, a got a call asking were we still going on the trip. I informed them that we were on the way and I was told to be there at 7:00. When we got to the dock, we had two Captains waiting on us. We were informed that there was a mix up and we were going with Captain Tim. We had to stop and get fuel, ice and bait. We trolled near shore and hooked up with a big fish. A dolphin took our fish. My oldest son got seasick. Water was very rough. We returned my son to shore. We started trolling again. Every time we hooked up with a decent fish, dolphins got our catch. We did catch several Bennita's. Alarm on boat started going off. We checked the motor and Captain called to attempt to trouble shoot. Both motors would not start. Finally got motor started but ran with one motor. We could not go to better bottom fishing spot due to running one motor. We came in early due to one motor and alarm going off constantly. Terrible experience! Screwed up from the start.

    Terry H. | September 3, 2024

    Trip: 4-8 hr Offshore Fishing (Federal)

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip caught a ton of fishes

    Agustin B. | September 3, 2024

    Trip: State Water Trolling/Bottom Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    All around Fantastic experience and Jason is very knowledgable and a great time. Will definitely book with Jason and time off charters again next year.

    Johnny H. | August 17, 2024

    Trip: State Water Trolling/Bottom Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Taylor was very knowledge and so nice! He is very dedicated to his passion.

    Jennifer V. | August 12, 2024

    Trip: 10 hour Extreme Offshore

  • ★★★★★
    The five stars Is not for Robert he was not who took us out the five stars is for Ryan he was awesome. Ryan taught us a lot and was very friendly. Highly recommend going on a trip with Ryan.

    Chandra N. | August 9, 2024

    Trip: 4-8 hr Offshore Fishing (Federal)

  • ★★★★★
    If you don’t book with Jayson you shouldn’t even come to Destin. You might as well cancel your entire trip if you don’t book with Jayson. I’d rather spend 4 hours fishing with Jayson than 7 days at the beach because I’d spend those 7 days seeing Jayson crash through the waves catching fish as big as a small child. If it ain’t Jay-son I ain’t gonna pay-son!

    Jordan A. | August 8, 2024

    Trip: Captain's Discretion

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Seth was very knowledgeable of the area and took us to some great fishing spots. Everybody had an excellent time and we got to catch some fish. We will definitely return again.

    Kasey B. | August 2, 2024

    Trip: Destin Inshore Adventure

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great time, great conversation and tour guide. We caught a bunch of tuna and king mackerel! We highly recommend Kent!

    Jennifer L. | August 2, 2024

    Trip: Fishing Trips with Captain Kent

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great trip. Captain and crew did amazing at explaining things and getting us on some fish. He even had great recipe ideas for the fish we took home(after he cleaned them for us!) Highly recommend.

    Glendale H. | July 31, 2024

    Trip: Fishing Trips with Captain Kent

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

    Kolton H. | July 24, 2024

    Trip: Fishing Trips with Captain Kent

  • ★★★★★
    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. | July 14, 2024

    Trip: State Water Trolling/Bottom Fishing

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

    Josh D. | July 12, 2024

    Trip: Destin Trolling & Bottom Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    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. | July 12, 2024

    Trip: 4-8 hr Offshore Fishing (Federal)

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

    Ann M. | July 11, 2024

    Trip: Destin Gulf Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    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. | July 8, 2024

    Trip: State Water Trolling/Bottom Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    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. | July 5, 2024

    Trip: Live Action Trolling Trip

  • ★★★★★
    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. | June 28, 2024

    Trip: Destin Inshore Adventure

  • ★★★★★
    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. | June 25, 2024

    Trip: Combo Reef & Trolling Trips

What's biting in Santa Rosa Beach?

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