Destin Fishing Reports

We have been dedicated to finding redfish recently, and the results have been rewarding. During our most recent trip, the Vann family, who are locals here in Destin, expressed their goal of landing some redfish. They successfully met that goal, and the photos capture a few of the fish brought to the boat. It was a pleasure hosting the Vann family, and we are already looking forward to our next time out on the water together.

Welcome to the summer transition on the Emerald Coast! As we move through mid-June 2026, the local marine conditions have dictated a split strategy for anglers. While the Gulf of Mexico has seen some choppy offshore swells and steady southeast winds making deep-water runs a bit bumpy, the protected waters of Choctawhatchee Bay are offering glass-smooth conditions and a highly productive bite. If you want to avoid seasickness and focus on reeling in quality fish, booking a Fishing Charter Destin FL that focuses on the back bays is the perfect solution this week. Here is what Captain Jake is putting in the boat right now on our Destin Inshore Fishing trips: Topwater Speckled Trout: The early morning surface action has been phenomenal. We are seeing large "gator" trout aggressively striking along the southern grass flats from Joe's Bayou down through the bay. If you are looking for premier Speckled Trout Fishing Destin FL, getting on the water early is delivering constant rod-bending action. Heavy Redfish: Both slot-sized and massive "bull" Redfish Destin FL are heavily patrolling the grass flats, oyster beds, and harbor structures. They are hitting live shrimp and pinfish hard right now, providing a great fight on light tackle without having to deal with the heavy waves of the open ocean. Spanish Mackerel & Mangrove Snapper: For our Family Fishing Trip Destin FL, the bayous and bridges are loaded with hungry Mangrove Snapper and schooling Spanish Mackerel. These species offer fast-paced, steady action that is perfect for keeping kids engaged and having fun. Why Choose an Inshore Bay Trip This June? When the Gulf gets rough, offshore trips can quickly become miserable, especially for young children or anyone prone to seasickness. By opting for Inshore Fishing Destin FL, we guarantee a calm, stable, and completely stress-free environment. You get to enjoy the beautiful Florida weather, learn proven local techniques, and target highly prized inshore species. Plus, for those looking to cool off after reeling in their limit, we can easily incorporate a stop at Crab Island into your day. Secure Your June Fishing Trip Do not let the offshore weather dictate your vacation. Captain Jake still has a few openings left for the second half of June for half-day Bay Fishing Destin FL trips and kid-friendly excursions. We launch directly out of Bluewater Bay in Niceville, putting you on the fish within minutes and avoiding the heavy boat traffic near the pass. Jump over to our online calendar to reserve your preferred date, or give us a call to customize a relaxing, calm-water fishing trip for your group!

Summer is in full swing, and so is the bite in Destin! Anglers heading out this week are finding steady action both inshore and offshore. Nearshore trips are producing solid numbers of red snapper, especially on half-day runs around the reefs and wrecks. Most fish are hitting cut bait and live cigar minnows, and the bite tends to heat up early in the morning before the sun gets high. Inshore, the bay is offering up a mix of slot-sized redfish, speckled trout, and mangrove snapper. Early mornings and late evenings are your best bet, especially with live shrimp or topwater plugs near docks and grasslines.

Today's redfish fishing in Destin, is excellent, with anglers reporting good numbers of slot-sized redfish being caught. The fish are active, providing exciting action for those targeting this popular species in the beautiful waters of Destin.