Are you planning a fishing trip to the beautiful coastal town of Destin, Florida? With its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life, Destin is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts. However, to make the most of your fishing experience, it is crucial to know which fish are in season during your visit. In this blog post, we will provide you with a detailed and comprehensive guide to the fish that are in season in Destin, Florida.
Destin, known as the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” boasts a variety of fish species that can be caught year-round. However, different seasons bring different opportunities and challenges for anglers. By understanding the seasonal patterns of fish migration and breeding, you can plan your trip accordingly and increase your chances of a successful catch. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the fish species you can expect to encounter during each season in Destin, Florida.
Spring: King Mackerel
In the spring months, Destin’s waters come alive with the arrival of king mackerel. These fast-swimming predators, also known as kingfish, can reach impressive sizes and offer an exhilarating fishing experience. King mackerel are highly migratory and move closer to shore during the spring to feed and reproduce. Anglers can target king mackerel by trolling near offshore structures or using live bait such as cigar minnows or menhaden. The thrill of hooking into a high-speed king mackerel and witnessing its acrobatic leaps is a highlight of spring fishing in Destin.
Best Locations for King Mackerel
King mackerel can be found near artificial reefs, wrecks, and offshore structures. In Destin, some popular spots to target king mackerel include the East Pass Jetties, the Mid-Bay Bridge, and the Okaloosa Pier. These locations provide ideal habitats for king mackerel as they attract schools of baitfish, which in turn attract hungry king mackerel. When targeting king mackerel, keep an eye out for diving birds and surface disturbances, as they can indicate the presence of feeding fish.
Techniques for Catching King Mackerel
Trolling is a popular technique for targeting king mackerel. Anglers can use planers or downriggers to present their baits at different depths, covering a larger area of water. Effective trolling lures for king mackerel include spoons, plugs, and artificial bait rigs. To increase your chances of success, vary your trolling speed and make sharp turns to mimic the movement of a wounded baitfish. Another effective method for catching king mackerel is slow trolling live bait. Cigar minnows, menhaden, and mullet are all excellent live bait options that can entice these voracious predators.
Spring: Red Snapper
Another highly sought-after fish species in Destin is the red snapper. Known for their vibrant coloration and delicious white meat, red snapper are a favorite among anglers. Spring is the prime season for catching these bottom-dwelling fish as they gather in large numbers to spawn. Red snapper can be found near natural and artificial reefs, as well as underwater structures like shipwrecks. Targeting red snapper requires a combination of skill, patience, and a good understanding of their behavior.
Best Locations for Red Snapper
Destin is home to numerous artificial reefs and shipwrecks, providing excellent habitats for red snapper. The “Edge,” a series of underwater ledges and drop-offs located approximately 20 miles offshore, is a renowned hotspot for red snapper fishing. Other popular locations include the “Yankee Reef” and the “Russian Freighter.” These areas are known to hold large populations of red snapper and offer a good chance of a successful catch.
Techniques for Catching Red Snapper
When targeting red snapper, bottom fishing techniques are most effective. Dropping your bait near the reef or structure and allowing it to sink to the desired depth is a common method. Baits such as squid, cut bait, and live bait like pinfish or cigar minnows are attractive to red snapper. Patience is key when fishing for red snapper, as they can be finicky at times. It is important to pay attention to the slight taps or twitches on your line, as this could indicate a red snapper nibbling at your bait. Once hooked, red snapper put up a strong fight, making for an exciting battle to reel them in.
Summer: Mahi-Mahi
As summer arrives, so do the vibrant and acrobatic mahi-mahi. These highly sought-after game fish, also known as dolphin fish or dorado, are known for their incredible fighting abilities and delicious meat. Mahi-mahi are pelagic fish that prefer warm waters, making Destin an excellent destination for targeting them during the summer months. Anglers can expect to encounter mahi-mahi in offshore waters, particularly near floating debris like weed lines, sargassum mats, and flotsam.
Best Locations for Mahi-Mahi
When searching for mahi-mahi, it is essential to look for signs of their presence. Floating debris, such as logs, seaweed, and even discarded fishing gear, often serves as a gathering point for mahi-mahi. These floating objects provide shelter and attract smaller fish, which, in turn, lures mahi-mahi. Additionally, offshore structures like oil rigs, buoys, and weed lines can also hold mahi-mahi. Keep an eye out for birds diving into the water, as they can indicate the presence of feeding mahi-mahi.
Techniques for Catching Mahi-Mahi
Trolling is a popular technique for targeting mahi-mahi. High-speed trolling with lures such as skirted trolling plugs or feathered baits can entice these fast-swimming fish. The key is to cover a large area of water and imitate the movement of baitfish. Another effective method is casting or trolling around weed lines and other floating debris. Mahi-mahi are opportunistic feeders and will readily strike a well-presented bait or lure. Live bait, such as small ballyhoo or goggle-eyes, can also be effective when targeting larger mahi-mahi.
Summer: Amberjack
If you are looking for a challenging and thrilling fishing experience, summer is the time to target amberjack in Destin. These powerful and aggressive fish are known for their brute strength and relentless fights. Amberjack are often found near wrecks, reefs, and other underwater structures, where they seek shelter and feed on smaller fish. With their impressive size and fighting ability, landing an amberjack is a feat to be proud of.
Best Locations for Amberjack
Destin is surrounded by a vast array of artificial reefs, sunken ships, and natural structures that attract amberjack. The “Liberty Ship” wreck, located approximately 20 miles offshore, is a popular spot for targeting these powerful fish. Other hotspots include the “Bridge Span,” the “Black Ledge,” and the “Miss Louise.” These locations provide the ideal habitat for amberjack, with plenty of hiding spots and abundant prey.
Techniques for Catching Amberjack
Vertical jigging is a favored technique for catching amberjack. Using heavy metal jigs, anglers can drop their lines near the structure and employ a jerking motion to imitate wounded prey. Amberjack are voracious predators and will often strike aggressively at these jigs. Another effective method is live baiting, using large live baits such as blue runners or pinfish. Amberjack are opportunistic feeders and will readily take a well-presented live bait. The key is to present the bait in a natural manner, allowing it to swim freely and attract the attention of nearby amberjack.
Fall: Grouper
Fall brings the perfect opportunity to catch grouper in Destin. These bottom-dwelling giants are known for their size, strength, and delicious meat. Grouper species such as red grouper, black grouper, and gag grouper can be found near rocky ledges, reefs, and artificial structures. Fall is the prime season for targeting grouper as they migrate closer to shore in search of food and to prepare for the winter months.
Best Locations for Grouper
Destin offers numerous artificial reefs, ledges, and underwater structures that provide excellent habitats for grouper. The “Destin East Bridge Span,” the “Mid-Bay Bridge,” and the “Ben Davis” wreck are popular spots for targeting grouper. These areas are known to hold large populations of grouper and offer ample opportunities for a successful catch.
Techniques for Catching Grouper
When targeting grouper, bottom fishing techniques are most effective. Dropping your bait near the structure or ledge and allowing it to sink to the desired depth is a common method. Baits such as live pinfish, cigar minnows, or cut bait are attractive to grouper. Patience is key when fishing for grouper, as they tend to be cautious and may require some coaxing to take the bait. It is important to keep your line tight and be prepared fora strong and sudden strike. Once hooked, grouper will put up a fierce battle, using their strength and size to try to escape back to their hiding spots. It is essential to have sturdy tackle and heavy-duty fishing gear to handle these powerful fish.
Fall: Wahoo
For those seeking an adrenaline-pumping experience, fall is the season for wahoo fishing in Destin. Wahoo, also known as ono, are prized for their speed, agility, and delicious flesh. These lightning-fast predators inhabit the deep waters and are known for their blistering runs and acrobatic leaps. Fall is the ideal time to target wahoo as they migrate through the Gulf of Mexico in search of food.
Best Locations for Wahoo
Wahoo can be found in offshore waters, particularly near drop-offs, underwater structures, and temperature breaks. The “Nipple,” the “Spur,” and the “Elbow” are renowned locations where wahoo are often encountered. These areas offer a combination of favorable conditions, including deep water, strong currents, and ample baitfish, making them prime hunting grounds for wahoo.
Techniques for Catching Wahoo
Trolling is the most effective technique for targeting wahoo. High-speed trolling with lures such as jet heads, diving plugs, and skirted trolling lures can entice these speedsters. Wahoo are known to be attracted to flashy and fast-moving lures that mimic the appearance and movement of their natural prey. It is important to pay attention to the depth at which wahoo are feeding and adjust your trolling speed accordingly. Additionally, using wire leaders is recommended to prevent wahoo from cutting through the fishing line with their razor-sharp teeth.
Winter: Sheepshead
Winter is not just a season for anglers to take a break in Destin; it also brings the opportunity to catch the delectable sheepshead. These finicky eaters thrive in colder waters and can be found near structures such as bridges, piers, jetties, and docks. Sheepshead are known for their distinctive vertical stripes and a set of strong teeth, which they use to crush their preferred prey of crustaceans, mollusks, and barnacles.
Best Locations for Sheepshead
When targeting sheepshead, look for areas with abundant structure and food sources. Bridges, piers, jetties, and docks provide ideal habitats for sheepshead, as they attract barnacles, mussels, and other crustaceans that form the base of their diet. The “Destin Bridge” and the “Marler Bridge” are popular spots for sheepshead fishing. Additionally, submerged rock piles and artificial reefs can also hold good numbers of sheepshead.
Techniques for Catching Sheepshead
Bottom fishing with small hooks and light tackle is the preferred method for targeting sheepshead. Using a small hook size, such as a size 4 or 6, and a fluorocarbon leader can increase your chances of success. Sheepshead have keen eyesight and can be quite finicky, so it’s important to use a subtle presentation. Baits such as shrimp, fiddler crabs, or barnacles are effective at enticing sheepshead to bite. It is crucial to pay attention to the subtle taps or nibbles on your line and be ready to set the hook when you feel a solid bite.
Winter: Black Drum
Black drum fishing is another popular winter activity in Destin. These powerful fish can be caught near the bottom using shrimp, crab, or cut bait. Black drum are known for their size and strength, providing anglers with a challenging battle. In addition to their fighting ability, black drum are also prized for their delicious meat, making them a sought-after catch during the winter months.
Best Locations for Black Drum
Black drum can be found near bridges, jetties, inlets, and other areas with structure and current. The “Destin Bridge” and the “Mid-Bay Bridge” are known hotspots for black drum fishing. These locations provide the ideal habitat for black drum, with strong currents bringing in a steady supply of food and creating favorable feeding conditions.
Techniques for Catching Black Drum
Bottom fishing using natural baits is the most effective technique for targeting black drum. Baits such as shrimp, crab, or cut bait are highly attractive to black drum. It is important to present the bait near the bottom, allowing it to rest on or near the structure where black drum are likely to be foraging. Patience is key when fishing for black drum, as they can be cautious and take their time before fully committing to the bait. Once hooked, black drum will put up a strong fight, using their size and power to try to escape.
Year-Round: Spanish Mackerel
While some fish species have specific seasons, Destin offers year-round opportunities for anglers. Spanish mackerel, with their blistering speed and aggressive nature, can be targeted throughout the year. Spanish mackerel are pelagic fish that prefer warmer waters and are known for their acrobatic leaps and fierce strikes. These fish provide exciting action for anglers of all skill levels.
Best Locations for Spanish Mackerel
Spanish mackerel can be found along the beaches, in the passes, and near offshore structures. The East Pass Jetties, the Destin Harbor, and the Okaloosa Pier are popular spots for targeting Spanish mackerel. These areas provide a combination of favorable conditions, including strong currents, baitfish concentrations, and structure that attracts Spanish mackerel.
Techniques for Catching Spanish Mackerel
Casting and trolling are the primary techniques for targeting Spanish mackerel. Casting spoons or jigs into schools of feeding Spanish mackerel can yield excellent results. It is important to retrieve the lure at a fast pace to mimic the swift movement of baitfish. When trolling, using planers or downriggers to present your lures at different depths can increase your chances of success. Lures such as silver spoons, flashy plugs, and small feathered jigs are effective at enticing Spanish mackerel to strike.
Year-Round: Flounder
Flounder, with their unique appearance and delicate flavor, can be found in Destin’s waters all year long. These flatfish prefer sandy bottoms and can be caught using live bait, such as shrimp or finger mullet, near inlets and channels. Flounder are known for their ability to camouflage themselves on the ocean floor, making them a challenging and rewarding target for anglers.
Best Locations for Flounder
When targeting flounder, look for areas with sandy or muddy bottoms, near inlets, channels, or along the edges of grass beds. The “East Pass Jetties” and the “Destin Harbor” are popular spots for flounder fishing. These areas provide the ideal habitat for flounder, with a combination of structure, currents, and sandy areas where flounder lie in wait for their prey.
Techniques for Catching Flounder
Bottom fishing with live bait is the most effective technique for targeting flounder. Using a Carolina rig or a fish finder rig with a small hook and a sliding sinker can help keep your bait near the bottom where flounder are feeding. Baits such as live shrimp, finger mullet, or small minnows are attractive to flounder. It is important to fish slowly and allow the flounder to take the bait before setting the hook. Flounder have a tendency to “mouth” the bait, so patience and a gentle hookset are crucial for a successful catch.
In conclusion, Destin, Florida, offers a diverse range of fish species that are in season throughout the year. By understanding the seasonal patterns of these fish and the techniques to target them, you can enhance your fishing experience and increase your chances of a successful catch. Whether you are pursuing the thrill of catching king mackerel in the spring, battling with powerful amberjack in the summer, or enjoying the delicious rewards of winter sheepshead or black drum, Destin has something to offer anglers of all interests and skill levels. So, pack your fishing gear, plan your visit accordingly, and get ready to reel in some memorable catches in the stunning waters of Destin, Florida!
