Flats fishing in Destin, Florida is a highly sought-after experience for anglers due to the area’s shallow, fertile waters teeming with diverse marine life. From redfish and speckled trout to flounder and sheepshead, the Destin flats offer a unique and exciting fishing opportunity. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best spots, target species, and expert tips to help you plan your next flats fishing adventure in Destin.
Best Spots for Flats Fishing in Destin, Florida
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Choctawhatchee Bay: This expansive bay is part of a series of saltwater estuaries that feed from the Choctawhatchee River into the East Choctawhatchee Bay and subsequently empty into the Gulf of Mexico. The bay’s shallow waters, averaging less than 3 feet in depth, are home to a variety of fish species, making it a prime destination for flats fishing.
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East Pass: This area is considered part of the “inshore” fishing grounds, extending up to 2 miles from shore. It offers a diverse array of habitats, including mangroves, shallows, estuaries, and other shallow waters that are home to many sought-after fish species.
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Mid Bay Bridge: A large flat adjacent to the Mid Bay Bridge is a popular spot for wade fishing, particularly for trout and redfish. The bridge’s structure and surrounding waters create an ideal environment for these inshore gamefish.
Species You Can Catch While Flats Fishing in Destin
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Redfish: These powerful and acrobatic fish are abundant in the shallow waters of Destin and can be caught using live bait such as pinfish, pogies, and shrimp.
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Speckled Trout: Trout are a common target for flats anglers in Destin, and can be caught using small live baits like pinfish, croaker, and shrimp, as well as artificial lures like DOA shrimp and Topwater lures.
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Flounder: These flatfish are known for their delicious meat and can be caught using live bait and bottom fishing techniques in the Destin flats.
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Black Drum: These fish are often caught in the same areas as redfish and trout, using similar baits and techniques.
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Sheepshead: These unique fish are more active during the winter months and can be caught using live shrimp and other baits in the Destin flats.
Best Times of Year for Flats Fishing in Destin
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Year-Round Fishing: Flats fishing in Destin is productive throughout the year, with different species being more active during different seasons.
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Winter: Redfish and trout are particularly active during the winter months, joined by sheepshead.
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Summer: Tarpon are more active during the summer months, providing an exciting target for anglers in the Destin flats.
Cost and Timings
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Half-Day Trips: Prices for half-day flats fishing trips in Destin can range from $495 to $1,125, with an average cost of $713.
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4-Hour Bay Fishing Trips: These trips are available for $713 and target a variety of species including black drum, jacks, mackerel, sheepshead, flounder, and snappers.
Guides and Charters
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Capt. LW’s ICX Guided Fishing Charter: Offers guided trips targeting redfish, trout, and other species in the shallow waters of Destin.
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Capt. Joey’s Bay Fishing Charter: Provides 4-hour bay fishing trips targeting a variety of species, including black drum, jacks, and flounder.
Tips and Techniques
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Look for Visual Cues: Search for large schools of mullet, as redfish and trout often follow these schools to feed on smaller baits.
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Use Live Bait: Live bait such as pinfish, pogies, and shrimp are effective for catching redfish, trout, and other species in the Destin flats.
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Artificial Lures: Artificial lures like DOA shrimp and Topwater lures can be used to catch trout and other species in the shallow waters of Destin.
Flats fishing in Destin, Florida offers an unparalleled opportunity to target a diverse array of inshore gamefish in a unique and picturesque setting. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a newcomer to the sport, this guide will help you plan your next successful flats fishing adventure in Destin.