You’ve probably heard by now that Destin has been dubbed the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village.” Destin’s harbor has the largest fleet of state and federally permitted charter boats in the nation and is an ideal spot to launch out for deep-sea fishing excursions. Fortunately for you, there are plenty of fishing opportunities just down the coast with us in South Walton too. Whether you’re an avid fisherman or a novice, there is a charter and a captain out there ready for you to hop on board. Are you feeling lucky?
Inshore
The Gulf of Mexico and coastal dune lakes aren’t the only bodies of water we have around here. We’re lucky to also have the nearly 30 mile long Choctawhatchee Bay in our backyard. The Bay is home to redfish, speckled trout, flounder, mullet, and many more species of local fish. The unique exchange of saltwater into brackish water where the bay meets the gulf makes for a diverse and abundant ecosystem.
Destin’s Boggy Bayou Charters
Captain: Dexter Early
Boat: 18 ft Tracker
With over 60 years of experience, Captain Dexter is guaranteed to provide you with an exciting day on the water. The trolling motor on his boat was built for fishing the shallow waters of the backcountry, getting you up close and personal to the fish without scaring them. The speckled trout and redfish will be plentiful and Captain Dex will even clean and filet them for you when you’re done!
Southern Renegade
Captain: Shane Johnson
Boat: 2018 Sportsman Masters 227
Captain Shane Johnson has over 20 years of experience and is an avid outdoorsman with a boatload of knowledge about our local fish, wildlife, and environment. His custom-made boat is perfect for groups of 4 to be comfortable, while also providing 360-degree access to get in on all the action one would expect while reeling in big fish. Southern Renegade also offers twilight fishing trips, dolphin cruises, and shorter trips that are perfect for kids!
*Book with either Destin’s Boggy Bayou Charters or Southern Renegade and receive 15% off through our Reef Rewards program!
Gulf
If you have ever been to Grayton Beach, you know that it’s the only part of the beach where driving on the beach is permitted. This means that boats are able to launch straight out into the Gulf right from the Grayton beach access. Due to the artificial reefs and sandbars in the area, you can find yourself fishing within 20 minutes of leaving the shore. This is a fisherman’s best-case scenario!
Fish On
Captain: Jimbo and his first mate Aaron
Boat: 20 ft Cape Horn
Captain Jimbo is a Seagrove Beach native who was taught how to fish before he could walk. He and his deckhand know all the ins and outs of gulf fishing here on 30A. Whether you’re looking for a 2, 3, or a 4-hour trip, Fish On can work with you to create a fishing itinerary that fits into your vacation schedule. Bottom fishing, which is closer to shore near the sandbars and reefs, will turn up gulf grouper, red snapper, and triggerfish.
Trigger Happy
Captain: Mike Valentino
Boat: 17 ft Cape Horn
Captain Mike has been fishing and living in Grayton Beach since 1983 and knows all there is to know about the reefs and water. You’ll be bottom fishing within minutes of launching off of Grayton’s white, sandy shore, or maybe your group can try your hand at trolling and see if you can fight a King Mackerel off of your line and into the boat. No matter how long your trip, Captain Mike will make sure you hit your limit and leave with a cooler full of fish.
Year-round great weather and a variety of interesting coastlines make our neck of the woods an angler's dream. Getting on a boat is a thrilling and memorable way to enjoy all that South Walton has to offer. So what are you waiting for? We’ll get you all set up in the perfect vacation home or condo so you can spend the day on the water. You can repay us with some fresh fish from your daily catch!
