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Recently Booked Fishing Charters In Choctawhatchee Bay
Inshore, Nearshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in Niceville
Fishing Trips With Captain Kent
Inshore, Nearshore, Jetty, Flats Fishing Charter in Fort Walton Beach
Captain's Discretion
Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Fort Walton Beach
Kid's Fishing Adventure
Top Types of Trips in Choctawhatchee Bay
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Inshore Fishing Charters In Choctawhatchee Bay
Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Niceville
Choctawhatchee Fishing & Cruising
Inshore Fishing Charter in Santa Rosa Beach
Santa Rosa Beach Inshore Special
Inshore, Nearshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in Niceville
Destin Inshore Adventure
Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Panama City Beach
Destin / PCB Fishing Adventure
Flats Fishing Charters In Choctawhatchee Bay
Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Fort Walton Beach
Kid's Fishing Adventure
Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Fort Walton Beach
Nighttime Bowfishing Adventure
Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Fort Walton Beach
Daytime Bowfishing Trip
Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Niceville
Choctawhatchee Fishing & Cruising
Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Panama City Beach
Destin / PCB Fishing Adventure
More Fishing Charters In Choctawhatchee Bay
Looking for an unforgettable fishing experience in the beautiful waters of Florida's Emerald Coast? Look no further than Captain Kent's Bay or Gulf fishing trips! With years of experience and a passion for fishing, you'll have the choice to embark on a fishing adventure staying closer to shore on Choctawatchee Bay or fishing further out in the State waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Sticking around in the bay you'll be using light tackle and live bait targeting a variety of fish species, including redfish and trout. Fishing further out in the Gulf Captain Kent will bust out the heavier tackle and give you the option of Trolling for Kingfish, Mahi Mahi, and Amberjack or Bottomfishing for Trigger fish and a variety of tasty snapper and grouper species. Our fishing trips are perfect for families, friends, and individuals who want to explore the natural beauty of Florida and enjoy a day out on the water. With all equipment and bait provided, all you need to do is bring your sense of adventure and a love of fishing. Captain Kent's boat, a 29ft Luhrs Sportfishing vessel is equipped with the latest technology and safety equipment, ensuring that your trip is not only fun but also safe. You'll learn about the local marine life and ecosystems, as well as fishing techniques that will help you become a better angler. Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience the thrill of fishing in one of the most beautiful locations in the world. Book your fishing trip with Captain Kent today and create memories that will last a lifetime! Read More
Inshore, Nearshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in Niceville
Destin Gulf Fishing
Take your kids out on the water and get them hooked on fishing! Captain Mike will teach them how to fish in the calm waters of Choctawhatchee Bay and maybe even the gulf on days where it isn't too choppy. This is mainly a catch and release trip but if you catch something worth eating, Captain Mike will filet it and let you take it home for dinner! On this easygoing trip, your little ones will be targeting Black Drum, Flounder, Redfish, Sheepshead, and Speckled Trout. Captain Mike primarily uses live bait, but he can easily accommodate fly and artificial fishermen as well. These fish are perfect for beginners and will provide a captivating fishing experience for kids! 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. All the fishing equipment for your group is provided by the Captain, along with fishing licenses for all occupants of the boat. Book your trip and Captain Mike will take care of the rest! Read More
Get out on the waters of the Choctawhatchee Bay and shoot some fish on this trip with Captain Joey! This nighttime bowfishing trip is typically action-packed, and it's a perfect opportunity to go after fish in a way that most fishermen have never tried. On this trip, you'll be bowfishing the Choctawhatchee Bay and the inshore water surrounding Destin, FL. It's a perfect area for shooting Spadefish, Shark, Sheepshead, Black Drum, Mullet, and Rays! These fish are active and unafraid at night, making them perfect targets for a little bit of bowfishing. Captain Joey's 20' Carolina Skiff is an ideal boat for this water and this type of fishing. She had a full renovation in 2017, and now features a raised platform for spotting fish, plus a new Suzuki 115 HP 4-stroke engine to put you on the fish fast. She also has a powerful electronic trolling motor for quiet, efficient movement in shallow water. Plus, she has six 200-Watt LED lights to totally illuminate the underwater environment. Captain Joey will provide everything you need for your trip, including all the bowfishing gear. Just remember proper clothing, sun protection, a pair of polarized sunglasses to spot fish, and a cooler for your catch. Bring your A-game and get ready to whack some fish! Read More
Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Fort Walton Beach
Nighttime Bowfishing Adventure
Join Captain Seth on this picture-perfect fishing adventure in the calm waters of Choctawhatchee Bay and the nearshore waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Whatever you want to catch, Captain Seth can put you on it, whether that means targeting Redfish and Speckled Trout with light spinning tackle over grass flats and oyster bars, or hunting Snappers and Groupers around docks, bridges, jetties, and the nearshore reefs. Depending on the time of year, you can expect to catch Mangrove Snapper, Sheepshead, Blue Fish, Ladyfish, Jack Crevalle, and Black Drum as well. On a longer trip, you can also choose to go further off and troll for speedy fish such as Mackerel, Mahi, and even Wahoo! Most of the time, you'll be throwing live baits, but Seth can easily accommodate more experienced anglers who want to try their skill on artificials. You'll be fishing from the deck of Captain Seth's 22' Ranger bay boat, a super-popular boat that's ideal for fishing in all kinds of water and weather. She's got a t-top to keep you out of the Florida sun, and a 200-HP Yamaha to get you on the fish fast! Everything you need is provided and comes loaded aboard. All you need to bring is sunscreen, a good pair of polarized sunglasses, non-marking shoes or flip-flops and a camera. A clean cooler with ice is provided on the boat, so feel free to bring your beverages and food of choice. No glass, please. A cooler to put your catch in at the end of the trip is also recommended! Read More
Inshore, Nearshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in Niceville
Destin Inshore Adventure
Hop on board with Captain Jimmy and get ready for an action-packed day of fishing the flats in the "World's Luckiest Fishing Village"! The inshore waters around Destin, namely Choctawhatchee Bay, are a great spot to catch some sought-after fish without having to trek into the deep waters. Captain Jimmy will help you target a variety of species on this 4 to 6-hour adventure, including Black Drum, Flounder, Redfish, and Speckled Trout. All you'll need to target these picture-worthy fish is classic light tackle with artificial lures or live bait. Whichever fish you want to go after, just let Captain Jimmy know and he'll get you set up with the best bait/lure to get one on the line! He'll even clean any keepers you catch for no additional charge. You’ll be fishing aboard a 18' Pathfinder bay boat that can fit up to 4 anglers. Its 90 HP Yamaha engine will get you where the fish are biting in the beautiful blue Choctawhatchee waters. Captain Jimmy's vessel is equipped with GPS, Fishfinder, a Live Bait Well, and a Wireless Trolling Motor to make your fishing experience as seamless as possible. Captain Jimmy will provide all license,rods, reels, tackle and live bait. We recommend you bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and any food or drinks you might need to keep those energy levels up. Climb aboard with Captain Jimmy! Read More
Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Panama City Beach
Destin / PCB Fishing Adventure
Arrive 15 minutes early for instruction. We’ll leave out of Black Creek Lodge and target reds and black drum. Start fishing out of my back yard in less than 10 minutes from boarding. We’ll be using cut baits and/, depending on groups skill level and size, artificial subsurface and topwater hardbaits. For artificials, I do not recommend groups larger than 4. If one/more of group cannot safely and accurately cast, everyone will be using cut baits. Time starts at 3:30 pm. Read More
Inshore, River, Flats Fishing Charter in Santa Rosa Beach
Fisherman’s Special
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Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Charter in Choctawhatchee Bay
What are the best fishing charters in Choctawhatchee Bay?
The best fishing charters in Choctawhatchee Bay are:
Why should I book a fishing charter in Choctawhatchee Bay with Captain Experiences?
Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 29 trips in Choctawhatchee Bay, and the most popular trips in the area are Fishing Trips with Captain Kent guided by Kent, Inshore Insanity guided by Hunter, and Captain's Discretion guided by Joey.
Our guides in Choctawhatchee Bay are rated a 4.95 out of 5 based on 3575 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 charters / fishing lessons in Choctawhatchee Bay? Check out our beginner and family friendly charters in Choctawhatchee Bay.
What types of fishing charters are common in Choctawhatchee Bay?
Deep Sea fishing is the most popular type of fishing in Choctawhatchee Bay as well as inshore fishing, flats fishing, and nearshore fishing.
The most commonly sought after species in Choctawhatchee Bay are: 1. redfish, 2. speckled trout, 3. black drum, 4. spanish mackerel, and 5. sheepshead.
The most common fishing techniques in Choctawhatchee Bay are light tackle fishing, live bait fishing, and artificial lure fishing but drift fishing and bottom fishing are popular as well.
How much do Choctawhatchee Bay fishing charters cost?
Prices in Choctawhatchee Bay can range anywhere from about $525 to $1,640, but the average price for a half day trip in Choctawhatchee Bay is $904. The average price for a full day trip in Choctawhatchee Bay is $1,271.
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 fishing in Choctawhatchee Bay?
The most popular season for fishing in Choctawhatchee Bay is summer, and most anglers book their trips 15 days in advance.
Do I need a Choctawhatchee Bay fishing license and what are the bag limits in Choctawhatchee Bay?
See here for more information on fishing licenses in Choctawhatchee Bay, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in Choctawhatchee Bay. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in Choctawhatchee Bay.
What is fishing in Choctawhatchee Bay about?
Choctawhatchee Bay, located in the Florida Panhandle, is a fantastic destination for anglers looking to catch a variety of fish species in a beautiful setting. One of the most sought-after fish in these waters is the redfish, also known as red drum. These fish are known for their fighting spirit and are often found in shallow waters, near grass beds, and around oyster bars. Anglers can target redfish using live baits like shrimp and mullet or artificial lures such as soft plastics and gold spoons. The best times to catch redfish in Choctawhatchee Bay are during the early morning and late afternoon hours.
Speckled trout, or spotted seatrout, are another popular species for anglers in Choctawhatchee Bay. These fish are prized for their tasty meat and the challenge they present. Speckled trout tend to congregate around grass flats, docks, and deeper channels. They can be caught using live shrimp, which is particularly effective when fished under a popping cork, or by casting artificial lures like jerk baits and topwater plugs. Spring and summer are the prime seasons for targeting speckled trout, with early mornings and late evenings being the most productive times.
Additionally, Choctawhatchee Bay offers excellent opportunities for catching flounder, especially during the fall migration. Flounder are known for their ability to blend into the sandy and muddy bottoms of the bay, making them a rewarding catch for those who are patient. Anglers often use live bait such as finger mullet or mud minnows to entice flounder, focusing their efforts around structures like docks, seawalls, and grass beds. The combination of the thrill of the catch and the delicious taste of flounder makes it a favorite among local and visiting anglers alike.
What are the most popular months to fish in Choctawhatchee Bay?
Fishing in Choctawhatchee Bay is a year-round activity, with each season offering unique opportunities to catch a variety of fish. In the spring, the waters warm up, attracting species like speckled trout and redfish. This time of year, anglers often find success using live bait or artificial lures, with the bay’s grass flats and oyster bars providing ideal habitats for these fish. The influx of baitfish and the start of spawning season make spring a productive and exciting time to fish in Choctawhatchee Bay.
As summer approaches, the bay’s fishing landscape shifts slightly. The warmer water temperatures bring in a diverse array of species, including flounder, black drum, and even tarpon. Early mornings and late evenings are prime times to fish, as the midday heat can make the fish less active. The deeper channels and the Intracoastal Waterway become hotspots during this season, offering cooler waters and abundant fish populations. Summer also brings an increase in recreational boating, so anglers often seek out quieter spots to cast their lines.
Autumn in Choctawhatchee Bay marks the return of cooler temperatures and another excellent fishing season. Redfish and speckled trout become more active again, and the fall mullet run draws in larger predators like bull reds. This season is ideal for anglers who enjoy fly fishing or light tackle fishing, as the clear waters and mild weather provide perfect conditions. Winter, though less popular, still offers good fishing opportunities, particularly for sheepshead and black drum, which are more active in the cooler months. Each season in Choctawhatchee Bay provides a unique fishing experience, making it a beloved spot for both local and visiting anglers.
What types of fishing are popular in Choctawhatchee Bay?
Fishing in Choctawhatchee Bay offers a variety of experiences, each catering to different preferences and skill levels. One popular method is inshore fishing, which involves casting lines from boats or kayaks in the bay’s shallow waters. This type of fishing is perfect for targeting species like redfish, speckled trout, and flounder. The bay’s grass flats, oyster beds, and estuaries provide rich habitats for these fish, making inshore fishing both accessible and rewarding for anglers looking to catch a variety of species close to shore.
Another enjoyable approach in Choctawhatchee Bay is fly fishing. This technique is especially popular in the bay’s clear, shallow waters, where sight fishing for redfish and speckled trout can be an exciting challenge. Fly fishing requires a bit more skill and precision, as it involves casting lightweight lures that mimic the natural movement of prey. Anglers often wade into the water or fish from shallow-draft boats, using flies that resemble shrimp, crabs, and small baitfish. The peaceful surroundings and the thrill of spotting and casting to individual fish make fly fishing a favorite among experienced anglers.
For those seeking deeper waters and larger catches, offshore fishing offers a different kind of adventure. While Choctawhatchee Bay itself is relatively shallow, its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico means that a short trip through the Destin Pass can lead to deeper offshore fishing grounds. Here, anglers can target a wide range of species such as snapper, grouper, and king mackerel. Offshore fishing often involves using larger boats equipped with more robust gear to handle the bigger fish and stronger currents found in the Gulf. This type of fishing can be more physically demanding and requires knowledge of the offshore environment, but the potential for landing trophy-sized fish makes it an exhilarating experience.
What species are popular in Choctawhatchee Bay?
Choctawhatchee Bay is renowned for its diverse fish populations, making it a prime destination for anglers targeting various species throughout the year. One of the most sought-after fish in the bay is the speckled trout. Known for their striking appearance and challenging fight, speckled trout are commonly found in the bay’s grassy flats and around oyster bars. Anglers often use live shrimp, small baitfish, or artificial lures to entice these fish, particularly during the spring and fall when they are most active.
Another popular species in Choctawhatchee Bay is the redfish, or red drum. Redfish are prized for their size and strength, making them a favorite among sport fishermen. These fish can be found in shallow waters, particularly around the marshes, sand flats, and mangroves. Redfish are known to feed on a variety of baits, including shrimp, crabs, and mullet. During the cooler months, they tend to school up in larger numbers, providing excellent opportunities for anglers to catch multiple fish in a single outing.
Flounder are also a notable species in Choctawhatchee Bay, especially for those who enjoy bottom fishing. These flatfish are known for their unique ability to camouflage themselves against the sandy or muddy bottoms of the bay. Flounder can be caught using live bait such as minnows or finger mullet, as well as with soft plastic lures that mimic small fish or shrimp. The fall migration is an ideal time to target flounder, as they move from the bay to the Gulf of Mexico, passing through the bay’s inlets and channels. These fish provide a delicious reward for anglers, with their firm, white flesh being highly regarded for its culinary qualities.
Does Choctawhatchee Bay have good fishing?
Choctawhatchee Bay, located along the Emerald Coast of Florida, is celebrated for its excellent fishing opportunities and scenic beauty. Spanning between Destin and Freeport, this bay system is renowned for its diverse marine habitats, which attract a wide array of fish species year-round. Anglers frequent Choctawhatchee Bay for its abundant populations of speckled trout, redfish, flounder, and sheepshead, among others. Whether fishing from a boat, kayak, or shore, enthusiasts are treated to a variety of productive spots due to the bay's intricate network of channels, flats, and marshes.
The bay's geographical layout plays a pivotal role in its appeal to anglers of all levels. Its combination of shallow flats and deeper channels provides diverse fishing environments that cater to different techniques and preferences. Throughout the year, seasonal changes influence fish behavior, offering anglers opportunities to adjust their strategies accordingly. Choctawhatchee Bay's accessibility is another draw, with numerous public boat ramps, fishing piers, and shoreline access points available, ensuring that anglers can easily explore and fish its expansive waters.
Beyond its fishing allure, Choctawhatchee Bay offers a captivating backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts. Surrounded by pristine beaches, coastal marshlands, and vibrant wildlife, the bay provides a scenic setting for fishing adventures and nature exploration alike. Whether casting lines from the shore at sunset or navigating the bay's waters at sunrise, anglers can expect not just a productive fishing trip but also a serene and memorable experience amidst Florida's Gulf Coast charm.
Recent Reviews
Top Targeted Fishing Species in Choctawhatchee Bay
- Almaco Jack
- Amberjack
- Black Drum
- Blackfin Tuna
- Bluefish
- Bonito
- Bull Shark
- Channel Catfish
- Cobia
- False Albacore
- Florida Pompano
- Flounder
- Gag Grouper
- Grunt
- Jack Crevalle
- Kingfish
- Ladyfish
- Lane Snapper
- Mahi Mahi
- Mangrove Snapper
- Mutton Snapper
- Ray
- Red Grouper
- Red Snapper
- Redfish
- Sheepshead
- Spadefish
- Spanish Mackerel
- Speckled Trout
- Tarpon
- Triggerfish
- Tripletail
- Vermillion Snapper
Top Targeted Hunting Species in Choctawhatchee Bay
Top Fishing Techniques in Choctawhatchee Bay
- Artificial Lure Fishing
- Bottom Fishing
- Bowfishing
- Cut Bait Fishing
- Drift Fishing
- Heavy Tackle Fishing
- Jigging
- Light Tackle Fishing
- Live Bait Fishing
- Sight Casting
- Topwater Fishing
- Trolling
Top Hunting Techniques in Choctawhatchee Bay
- Calling
- Decoy Hunting
- Hunting from a Blind
- Shotgun Hunting
Top Types of Hunting in Choctawhatchee Bay
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