Luxury Charter Fishing

Destin Fishing by the Seasons

Looking for the excitement of catching a big fish for fun, high thrills, or just for dinner? Destin is the right place to go! The area is famous for its crystal clear emerald-green waters, pure quartz sand, and magnificent fishing.

destin ocean

Destin also has some of the best deep-sea fishing spots in the world!

Destin was founded by Billy Marler and Captain Leonard Destin in the mid 1800’s. The area was named after Captain Destin, a master angler that originally came to the area to take advantage of the large array of fish in the nearby waters. By the early 1900’s, the first private charter business in Destin began to take thrill seeking anglers out to harvest the gulf waters. At the time, the area was known as “The Bill Fish Capital of the Gulf” and has since grown into the deep-sea fishing destination phenomenon it is today.

Florida’s waters are home to a large variety of exciting big game fish. Depending on the season there’s always something to catch!

Spring

In the spring you might reel in Amberjack, Vermilion Snapper, White Snapper, Black Snapper, Shark, Triggerfish, Spanish Mackerel, Marlin, Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, Tuna, Sailfish, and Cobia.

Summer

Summer time means better fishing for Red Snapper, Vermilion Snapper, Black Snapper, White Snapper, Grouper, Triggerfish, Shark, Spanish Mackerel, King Mackerel, Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, Tuna, Sailfish, and Marlin.

Fall

Get lucky in the fall with Grouper, Vermilion Snapper, Black Snapper, White Snapper, Amberjack, Shark, Spanish Mackerel, King Mackerel, Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, Tuna, Sailfish, and Marlin.

Winter

Winter months are great for catching White Snapper, Vermilion Snapper, Black Snapper, Triggerfish and Tuna.

What does Destin have in store for you?

From hooking the most challenging species of fish like a shark to a milder thrill like the hunt for a delicious King Mackerel, Destin has a deep-sea adventure perfect for all ages. It’s time you got your family to Destin, Florida, to experience the deep sea fishing trip of a lifetime!

The Destin Deep Sea Fishing Experience

Deep sea fishing in Destin is an experience everyone should share!

The good news is, it’s even more affordable than ever. Whether you’re going out with the boys, creating a new family memory, or are just seeking an adventure, there’s no bad reason to visit the sandy shores of Destin, FL for a deep sea fishing trip.

Finest Kind LogoLong known for its beautiful beaches and gorgeous sunsets, Destin regularly tops national lists for best and most family-friendly vacation destinations. Even with its popularity, many people still don’t know how great the deep sea fishing is here! Year after year, people talk about the great stories they return home with and the photos they share with friends and neighbors – and some are so spectacular they encourage others to try out deep sea fishing in Destin’s waters, too! We’re firm believers that when you’re on vacation, you should take some time to really get away from it all.

One of the most popular reasons people come to Destin for deep sea fishing excursions is part of a bachelor party or “guy’s weekend.” It’s an easy-to-organize plan that’s tons of fun without being too wild. You and your buddies can get out in the sun and enjoy the water. Destin’s fish vary by season – from Amberjack to Grouper – but the unknown is a big part of the excitement!

Amberjack is one of Destin’s local specialties. To catch these challenging fish you need to choose a top notch Destin Charter Fishing Boat to guide you to where schools are and show you the ropes of reeling the big one in. Choosing the right charter boat can be the difference in having a fun filled day or just coming home with a tan. Captain Jason Mikel and his crew on the Finest Kind are recognized as one of the most knowledgeable charter boat services in Destin when it comes to finding Amberjacks. Locals know they’re the go-to operation – but now the secret’s out!

Fisherman Holding AmberjackSo, isn’t it time you got out there and saw the world away from land?

We take pride in our highly trained staff that’s always available to answer questions and keep your party safe. Parents, wives, and friends will feel at ease knowing their day-sailors are in good hands. If you’re going to try deep sea fishing fort he first time, why not go with experts in the field who know the best places to fish?

And with affordable rates for any size party, there’s sure to be a trip to fit practically any budget. Many companies promise to give the best in fishing trips, but not all can provide the experience and comfort you’ll find on a Finest Kind voyage! Contact us today to find out how affordable a charter deep sea fishing excursion really is. You’re going to be surprised!

Deep sea fishing in Destin isn’t something everyone has experienced, but they should. Have something different to take home from your vacation than sunbathing and crowded pools. Fun, adventure, and a little peace and quiet…isn’t that what a vacation is all about?

Ready to book your trip on the Finest Kind?

Reserve your choice time slot now to ensure you get the time and day that suits your vacation plans. It’s always smart to book your trip ahead of time as professional and yearly anglers typically snag the prime slots quickly.

See you in the waters of Destin where you’ll be making memories for a lifetime!

 

Spring Cobia Fishing in Destin

Cobia

Cobia Image Source: Marine Creations Taxidermy

From Deer Stands to Cobia Towers

With hunting season coming to an end, many outdoor lovers look to the Gulf of Mexico for a fishing adventure similar to the experience of sight hunting for deer. Cobia season answers that call! Warmer weather and rising water temperatures signal the beginning of Spring’s migration of Cobia, a hard-fighting gamefish. Leave your camo, stands, and rifles at home. With a charter outfitted to catch Cobia, we include the boat, bait, top-notch equipment, and Cobia catching experience that will have you and your group screaming, “Fish-on,” before you can tell the difference between a shark and a strike from this local favorite!
Spring is the Optimum time to go Cobia Fishing in Destin, FL

Spring Cobia Migration Patterns

Original Migration Map Source: The University of Southern Mississippi

Where to Find Cobia

Water temperature is the key to a plentiful Cobia population: 68-70 degrees is optimal. They’re spotted cruising inshore flats and channels along the northern Gulf Coast and show up around mid-March to early April in response to the warming surf. While migrating, Cobia travel northward along the coast of Florida, then westward into Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana. You can target Cobia while fishing nearshore along the shoreline, but they may surprise you by taking your tolling or bottom fishing bait.

Cobia can be tricky to locate at times for the average angler, especially if you are not familiar with Destin fishing. An abundance of Cobia nearshore on day one is not guaranteed on day two. They may spread out and head for deeper waters offshore, in any area that provides them with both plenty of food and ample shelter to hide from larger prey. An experienced charter captain offers the best chances for a successful hook up while targeting Cobia.

Spring Cobia Fishing is Huge in Destin

Spring Cobia fishing in Destin is huge! Destin is home to the Cobia World Championships Tournament, as well as the HarborWalk Marina Annual Cobia Tournament, and the Hog’s Breath Cafe Annual Cobia Shootout! The Spring migration of Cobia introduces the kick-off to warm weather fishing in the Destin area. Locals and visitors alike head out for a chance to hook up with this prize catch, as Cobia is a favorite among anglers of all ages.

One of the most amazing features of the Cobia World Championships Tournament is that Harbor Docks utilizes the funds collected during the event to accomplish the Take-A-Kid Fishing Day every November, which offers 500 underprivileged children the opportunity to experience a once in a lifetime deep sea fishing trip in the Gulf of Mexico out of Destin, Florida. Watch the video below to learn more about the World Championships Tournament, and how Cobia fishing is carried out in Destin.

Cobia World Championships from Harbor Docks on Vimeo.


Experienced Destin Charter Boat Captain Key to Successful Cobia Game Fishing

As plentiful as Cobia can be around Destin, they’re not all that easy to find. The most popular method of fishing for Cobia is called “sight fishing.” The fish are often spotted around markers, ships, rigs or anything else that can provide cover for them. Once spotted, fishermen cast free-lined live sardines, crab, or good-sized shrimp out in front of them with twenty-thirty pound test line (Cobia are incredibly strong!)

The only problem with this method twisted lines after only a couple of battles with a fish. Free-spool reels can be substituted with heavy jigs in place of live bait. The advantage of these is no line twist. Either way, smooth operation of tackle is imperative and you should rely on your charter boat captain to make good recommendations regarding choice of tackle and gear.

Sight Casting for Cobia

Image Source: Saltwater Sportsman

Once the Cobia is Hooked, the Thrill Begins

Cobia Destin, Florida

Cobia caught with Captain Jason Mikel of the Finest Kind

The Cobia is a muscular, powerful fish and a thrilling catch to make. Once the fish is hooked, expect lots of line to come screaming off the reel – and watch those fingers! At this point you can’t do much more than hang on. And even after the fish is into the boat, the battle may not be over! Cobia have been known to damage boats and equipment and in cases of unnecessary danger, injure the fisherman, too. The key is to keep the fish under control using a smooth single motion which is something your charter crew can help with. Beware of the 7-10 dorsal spines on top of the Cobia’s that stand erect when the fish is threatened, ready to gouge anything that gets in their way. Rely on the experience of your charter boat crew to keep you safe and ensure your catch is successful.

Cobia is a Prized Catch in More than One Way

The meat of Cobia is white, flakey, and very mild and some say it even has a slight lemon flavor. It’s sometimes actually referred to as the “lemon fish.” Most recipes that call for a white mild tasting fish are well-suited to cobia meat. Its firm flesh makes it perfect for grilling. If you decide to harvest the fish to use it for food, the Cobia must be netted or gaffed and placed on ice immediately. The first mate on board your Destin charter boat will most likely prepare the fillets and package them for you. A single large fish will provide enough steaks to feed your family for several meals, or enough for a fish feast!

Book a charter for Spring Cobia fishing in Destin!

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