Offshore Winds Got You Down? Choctawhatchee Bay is Delivering Consistent Catches!

Hot Weather, Hotter Bites Along the Emerald Coast

Awesome morning of catching Redfish! 

Redfish catch of the day

Meet Captain Jake Sargent, your experienced guide to the bountiful waters of Destin, FL. With a passion for fishing and a deep knowledge of the area, Captain Jake is dedicated to providing guests with unforgettable fishing experiences aboard Charter Boat 2nd Chance. Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to fishing, Captain Jake's expertise and enthusiasm ensure a memorable day on the water in Destin. Experience the excitement of fishing with 2nd Chance Charter Co., ideally situated in Bluewater Bay, Niceville, a short drive from Destin. Captain Thomas Sargent is committed to providing you with an exceptional day on the water, offering 3 to 6-hour trips targeting a variety of species, including Trout, Redfish, Mangrove Snapper, Flounder, and Drum. With Captain Sargent's expertise and passion for fishing, you're guaranteed an unforgettable fishing adventure in the beautiful waters of the Gulf Coast.As you embark on your fishing excursion, you'll be aboard the 2nd Chance, a 22’ Parker center console boat that can comfortably accommodate up to 6 anglers. This vessel is equipped with a range of amenities, including a portable toilet, iced cooler, wireless trolling motor, and livewell, ensuring a comfortable and convenient fishing experience. Powered by a reliable 150 HP Yamaha four-stroke engine, the 2nd Chance is also equipped with state-of-the-art fishfinder, GPS, and VHF radio electronics for efficient navigation.With all the necessary equipment provided, from rods and reels to live bait and lures, you can focus on enjoying your fishing trip to the fullest. Fishing licenses for the day are included, and at the end of your adventure, Captain Sargent or his crew will clean and fillet your catch for you to take home. Simply bring your snacks and drinks, and get ready for an unforgettable day of fishing with 2nd Chance Charter.&nbsp; Book your fishing adventure with Charter Boat 2nd Chance today and experience the thrill of fishing in the beautiful waters of Destin, FL. With Captain Jake Sargent's expertise and passion for fishing, you're guaranteed an unforgettable day on the water. Don't miss out on this opportunity for a fantastic fishing experience – reserve your spot now!

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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!

Redfish catch displayed on boat in Niceville FL waters

Redfish

Sea Trout

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.

<div>We couldn't have had any more fun catching Redfish with Mr. Tom and his family today! We caught about a dozen Reds this size using light tackle in clear waters. We caught our limit within an hour and continued to catch amd release the remainder of our trip. </div>

15lb braid 15lb flourocarbon 1/0 Owner circle hooks. Diawa 2500 spinning reels on Lightning and Star Rods.

Five redfish and black drum caught in Niceville

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.

A fisherman holding a massive redfish catch in Niceville

Redfish catch held over water in Niceville FL fishing trip

Two anglers displaying redfish catch on fishing dock in Niceville FL at night

Fresh caught redfish displayed on boat deck in Niceville Florida

Speckled trout caught while fishing in Niceville FL at night

Redfish caught while fishing in Niceville FL waters

Two redfish caught while fishing in Niceville FL waters

Four anglers displaying three redfish caught in Niceville FL on fishing dock

Redfish catch displayed on fishing boat in Niceville FL

Freshly caught redfish held on fishing boat in Niceville FL

Enjoy the calm waters of Choctawhatchee Bay

Ready to experience the fun of fishing in Destin with Charter Boat 2nd Chance? Book your adventure today and create memories that will last a lifetime!

Charter Boat 2nd Chance, led by Captain Jake Sargent, delivers top-tier fishing experiences along the coast of Destin, Florida. Specializing in family fishing charters in Destin Florida, Captain Jake offers a variety of customized trips including kids’ fishing, casual outings to Crab Island, and laid-back inshore fishing in Destin FL. With years of experience navigating the waters of Choctawhatchee Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, he provides a friendly, patient, and professional approach for anglers of all skill levels. Whether you're casting a line for the first time or you’ve reeled in your fair share, every trip is designed to be easygoing, fun, and memorable." Captain Jake’s knowledge of local species and fishing grounds makes each outing both productive and safe. Guests can expect to target a wide range of fish including Redfish in Destin FL, Black Drum, Sheepshead, Mangrove Snapper, Speckled Trout, Flounder, and more. The boat is well-equipped, and the atmosphere onboard is relaxed and welcoming—perfect for families and groups who want to enjoy the coastal waters without pressure. With 2nd Chance, you’re not just booking a fishing charter—you’re spending the day with a captain who genuinely enjoys helping others experience the joy of fishing in Destin.

Find answers to common questions about Destin fishing charters with Charter Boat 2nd Chance, including trip details, what to bring, pricing, and everything you need to plan a stress-free day on the water.

Charter Boat 2nd Chance

Redfish, Speckled Trout, and Inshore Catches

Captain Jake Sargent brings a lifetime of fishing knowledge and a passion for teaching others to every trip aboard Charter Boat 2nd Chance. Growing up in a military family, Jake moved often, but his roots were firmly planted in the waters of the Florida Panhandle. It was here, alongside his father, that he developed a love for fishing while wading through bays and bayous as a kid. These early experiences sparked a commitment to learning the craft, eventually guiding him toward a professional career on the water. As a teenager, Captain Jake took his first job on a Gulf charter boat, where he quickly absorbed the techniques, patterns, and responsibilities that come with guiding others. Over the years, he refined his skills, built lasting relationships with returning guests, and gained an appreciation for the diverse fishery Destin has to offer. His calm demeanor and adaptability make him a great guide for families, first-timers, and experienced anglers alike. Every trip with Captain Jake is approached with the same goal: create a fun, safe, and productive time on the water. Captain Jake specializes in inshore bay fishing, favoring the shallow waters of the local bays and bayous. He’s especially fond of light tackle techniques that add a layer of challenge and finesse to each catch. From Sheepshead and Redfish to Mangrove Snapper and Spotted Seatrout, he knows how to find and target the area's most sought-after species. His use of a trolling motor with GPS anchor allows for quiet, accurate positioning—ideal for productive inshore fishing without spooking the fish. Charter Boat 2nd Chance is a 22-foot Parker center console, built in 2017 and powered by a reliable 150HP Yamaha engine. The boat is designed to accommodate up to six guests comfortably, offering plenty of space to fish, relax, and enjoy the ride. With a center console layout and an I-Pilot trolling motor, it’s well-equipped for precise maneuvering and efficient inshore fishing. Whether you're casting along grass flats or exploring the bay’s channels, this vessel provides a stable, clean, and enjoyable platform for your day on the water.

Meet Captain Jake Sargent Of Charter Boat 2nd Chance

Book a top-rated inshore fishing trip in Destin with Charter Boat 2nd Chance. Target snapper, drum & more!

Morning Catch

Top-Rated Destin Inshore Fishing with Capt Jake

Book a 3-hour inshore fishing trip tailored for kids in Destin. Catch bluefish, drum & more with expert guides. Perfect for families!

Kids Splash

Kid-Friendly Fishing in Destin: 3-Hour Adventure

Book a top-rated Destin inshore trip: fish, snorkel, and swim at Crab Island. Perfect for families and groups!

Inshore Splash

Destin's Ultimate 5-Hour Fish & Swim Adventure

Book the best of Destin: inshore fishing and Crab Island swimming in one premium trip. Expert-guided fun for all!

Fish n Swim

Best Destin Crab Island & Fishing Combo Trip

Book a top-rated inshore trip with Charter Boat 2nd Chance. Target snapper, drum, and redfish in Destin's scenic waters.

Destin Drum

Premium Destin Inshore Trip: Snapper & Drum

Discover the best of Destin! Explore top attractions and activities in this vibrant coastal city. Plan your adventure today.

Things To Do

Things To Do In Destin

Family Friendly Charters

Destin Fishing Charters Frequently Asked Questions What types of fishing trips are available in Destin for families?Charter Boat 2nd Chance offers Family-Friendly Fishing Trips led by Captain Jake Sargent, perfect for all ages and skill levels. These trips focus on keeping kids and parents engaged with fun, easy-to-learn techniques to catch fish in the calm waters of the bay or around popular inshore spots. Can kids join a Destin fishing charter?Absolutely! Kids Fishing Trips with Charter Boat 2nd Chance are tailored specifically for young anglers, making the experience fun, safe, and educational. Captain Jake loves teaching kids how to catch fish and ensures they’re comfortable on the water, creating memories they’ll treasure. Are Crab Island trips available with fishing charters in Destin?Yes, Captain Jake can combine Crab Island Trips with your fishing charter for a day full of adventure. After reeling in some fish, your group can relax at Crab Island, a popular shallow-water destination, ideal for swimming and enjoying the beautiful Destin coastline. What types of fish can we catch on an inshore trip in Destin?On an inshore fishing trip with Charter Boat 2nd Chance, Captain Jake will guide you in catching fish like redfish, trout, sheepshead, and flounder. These trips are perfect for families and beginners, offering a great introduction to fishing in the scenic Destin waters. How long are the fishing trips with Charter Boat 2nd Chance?Charter Boat 2nd Chance offers flexible trip durations ranging from 2-hour Kids Fishing Trips to 6-hour family-friendly excursions. Captain Jake will customize your adventure to match your group’s preferences and schedule. What should we bring on a fishing trip in Destin?For a fishing trip with Charter Boat 2nd Chance, bring sun protection, hats, comfortable shoes, snacks, and drinks. Captain Jake provides all the fishing gear you’ll need, and he also has coolers for any snacks or drinks you bring along. Is deep sea fishing available for families with kids?While deep sea fishing trips are longer and venture farther offshore, Charter Boat 2nd Chance can adapt to family needs by offering nearshore options that deliver excitement without the extended travel. This way, kids and beginners can enjoy the thrill of catching big fish close to shore. How many people can join a trip with Charter Boat 2nd Chance?Captain Jake’s boat comfortably accommodates small groups, making it ideal for Family Friendly Fishing Trips. Contact Captain Jake for specific group requirements, and he’ll make sure to set up the best adventure for your crew. Can we keep the fish we catch in Destin?Yes, you can keep fish that fall within state regulations. Captain Jake will help you understand the current rules and regulations and will also clean and bag your legal catch for you to take home and enjoy! Do we need a fishing license to fish with Captain Jake?No fishing license is needed when you fish with Charter Boat 2nd Chance. Captain Jake’s fishing charter includes all necessary licenses, so you can relax and focus on having a great day on the water.

Destin Harbor & Choctawhatchee Bay Charters

Bay Fishing Destin FL & Choctawhatchee Bay

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Best Spots

Silhouette of angler fishing with rod at sunset over calm water

Silhouettes of anglers fishing from rocky shoreline during sunset over calm water

Majestic snow-capped mountain peaks rising behind dense evergreen forest with calm reflective water in foreground during golden hour lighting

Mountain peaks with orange alpenglow reflected in calm water surrounded by evergreen forest

Angler holding freshly caught black drum fish on boat with ocean backdrop

Angler holding large black drum fish on boat with ocean and blue sky in background

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