Get ready to hit the offshore waters of Destin for an action-packed day of deep sea fishing! Windwalker II Charters offers a top-notch experience that'll have you reeling in some of the Gulf's most prized catches. Whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time wetting a line, our experienced crew will make sure you have a blast out on the water. With room for up to 6 guests, it's the perfect trip for families, friends, or even a corporate outing. Let's dive into what makes fishing in Destin so special!
When you step aboard our well-equipped vessel, you're in for a treat. We'll cruise out beyond the emerald waters Destin is famous for, into the deep blue where the big fish play. Our seasoned captain knows these waters like the back of his hand, so we'll head straight for the hotspots. You'll be targeting a mix of hard-fighting bottom dwellers and speedy pelagics - think Red Snapper, Grouper, Amberjack, and if luck's on our side, maybe even a Wahoo or Mahi Mahi. The Gulf can be unpredictable, but that's half the fun! We provide all the gear you'll need, from rods and reels to bait, so you just need to bring your game face and maybe a cooler for your catch.
Out here in the deep, we use a variety of fishing methods to put you on the fish. For bottom fishing, we'll drop lines baited with squid or cut fish to entice Snapper and Grouper hiding around reefs and wrecks. When targeting pelagics like King Mackerel or Mahi, we might do some trolling - dragging lures behind the boat as we cruise. The crew will show you the ropes, from how to bait your hook to the best way to fight a big fish. Don't worry if you're new to this - we've seen plenty of first-timers land the catch of the day! And hey, even if the fish aren't biting, the views of the Emerald Coast from offshore are worth the trip alone.
"We had an unforgettable day out with Windwalker II Charters in Destin, Florida! The crew was experienced, professional, and made the entire trip smooth and enjoyable for everyone on board. The boat was spotless and fully outfitted, and Captain Bernie took us straight to some prime fishing spots. Whether you're new to fishing or have years under your belt, they make sure everyone feels included and has a great time. We reeled in some impressive catches and are already looking forward to our next trip!" - Ben
Cobia: These "line-sided" bruisers are a favorite among Destin anglers. They're strong fighters that can grow over 100 pounds, though 30-50 pounders are more common. Cobia often hang around structures like buoys or even follow larger marine life like sharks or turtles. They're most abundant in spring and fall, and their firm, white meat makes for excellent eating.
Red Snapper: A Gulf staple, Red Snapper are prized for both their fight and their flavor. These beautiful crimson fish are typically found near reefs and wrecks in depths of 60-300 feet. They can grow up to 40 pounds, but even smaller ones put up a great fight. The season for Red Snapper is strictly regulated, so catching one during the open season is always a special treat.
Spanish Mackerel: These speedsters are a blast to catch on light tackle. They travel in schools and can create quite a frenzy when feeding near the surface. Spanish Mackerel are most common in the warmer months and are known for their acrobatic jumps and blistering runs. While smaller than their King Mackerel cousins, they're just as tasty on the grill.
Gag Grouper: These bottom-dwelling powerhouses are a true test of an angler's strength. Gags like to hole up in rocky areas and reefs, and once hooked, their first instinct is to dive back to their hideout. It's a tug-of-war that'll have your arms burning, but landing a big Gag Grouper is incredibly satisfying. They're available year-round but are most active in cooler months.
Grey Snapper: Also known as Mangrove Snapper, these crafty fish are abundant in Destin's waters. They're smaller than Red Snapper but make up for it with their feisty attitude and delicious mild, sweet flavor. Grey Snapper can be found year-round and are often caught while targeting other species, making them a welcome addition to any fish box.
King Mackerel: "Smoker" Kings are the stuff of fishing legend in Destin. These torpedoes can scream off hundreds of yards of line in seconds, often leaping clear of the water in spectacular fashion. Kings can top 50 pounds, though 15-30 pounders are more common. They're most active in the warmer months and are a favorite target for tournaments due to their exciting fights.
Greater Amberjack: Nicknamed "reef donkeys" for their stubborn strength, Amberjack are the ultimate test of an angler's endurance. These powerful fish hang around deep wrecks and reefs, often in schools. When hooked, they dive hard and don't give up easily. The fight with a big AJ can leave even experienced anglers with sore arms, but the sense of accomplishment (and tasty fillets) make it all worthwhile.
Alright, folks - if you're itching to bend a rod and feel that offshore magic, Windwalker II Charters has got you covered. Our deep sea fishing trips out of Destin are the real deal, offering a chance at some of the Gulf's most sought-after species. Whether you're looking to fill the freezer with tasty fillets or just want to experience the thrill of battling big fish in beautiful surroundings, we've got the know-how and the spots to make it happen. Don't let another season slip by without getting out on the water. Give us a call, round up your crew, and let's make some fishing memories that'll last a lifetime. The fish are waiting - are you ready to drop lines?
March 25, 2025
Cobia are tough fighters that'll give you a real workout. These streamlined fish can grow up to 6 feet long and 100 pounds, though most are in the 30-50 pound range. Look for them around structures like reefs, buoys, and wrecks in 30-70 feet of water. Spring and early summer are prime times as they migrate along the coast. Cobia put up an exciting battle and make excellent table fare with their firm, white meat. To land one, try slow-trolling live bait like pinfish or mullet near the surface. A local trick is to chum them up, then sight-cast when you see their distinctive shark-like dorsal fin. Just be ready for a fight - these fish will test your stamina as they make powerful runs.
Gag grouper are hard-fighting fish that love structure. They average 10-30 pounds but can top 50. You'll find them around reefs, ledges and wrecks in 60-250 feet of water. Fall and winter are prime seasons as they move to deeper spawning areas. Anglers enjoy the challenge of pulling these powerful fish away from their rocky homes. They also make excellent table fare. To land a big gag, use heavy tackle and large live baits like pinfish or grunts. Drop your bait right into the structure and be ready - when they hit, you need to turn their head fast before they dive back in the rocks. A local trick is to use a hand-crank reel for better control in the initial fight. The meat is firm and white, great for grilling or frying.
Greater amberjack are bulldogs of the ocean that'll test your strength. These powerful fish average 20-40 pounds but can exceed 100. You'll find them around deep reefs and wrecks in 60-300 feet of water. Spring and fall offer the best action. Anglers love AJs for their brute strength and never-say-die attitude. They're also good eating when handled properly. To land a big jack, use heavy tackle and large live baits like blue runners. Once hooked, crank hard to turn their head - if they get back to the wreck, you're done. A local trick is to use a pitch bait to tempt finicky fish. The meat can carry ciguatera in some areas, so check local advisories. When safe, it's great in fish tacos or blackened.
Grey snapper, also called mangrove snapper, are sneaky fighters that hang around structure. They average 1-3 pounds but can reach 10+. You'll find them near reefs, rocks, and pilings in 10-100 feet of water. Summer is prime time as they gather to spawn. Anglers enjoy the challenge of outsmarting these wary fish. They're also excellent eating, with sweet white meat. To catch greys, use light tackle and small live baits or shrimp. A fluorocarbon leader helps fool their sharp eyes. When you feel the bite, don't set the hook - just start reeling. A local trick is to chum them up, then fish a bait without any weight to look natural. The meat is versatile - great fried, grilled, or in fish tacos.
King mackerel are speed demons that'll make your reel scream. These sleek predators average 10-20 pounds but can top 50. Look for them in open water from the surface down to about 150 feet. Spring and fall migrations offer the best action. Anglers love kings for their blistering runs and aerial acrobatics. They're also good eating when prepared right. To target kings, try slow-trolling live baits like blue runners or menhaden. Use wire leaders - their razor sharp teeth will slice through mono. A local trick is to use a "stinger" rig with an extra treble hook to catch short-striking fish. Bleed and ice the meat immediately for the best flavor. Kings are great smoked or in fish dip.
Red snapper are prized for their firm, white, sweet-tasting fillets. You'll find them hanging around reefs and rocky bottoms in 60-300 feet of water. Most average 5-10 pounds but can grow over 30. Late spring through fall is prime time, with spawning peaks in summer. Anglers love targeting these fish for their hard-fighting nature and excellent eating quality. To improve your odds, use circle hooks with fresh cut bait or live pinfish. Drop your line all the way to the bottom, then reel up a few cranks. When you feel the telltale thump, set the hook fast and start reeling - these guys will dive for cover if you give them a chance. The meat is some of the best you'll find, so be sure to keep a few for dinner.
Spanish mackerel are fast-moving fish that provide plenty of action. They average 1-2 feet long and a few pounds, but can reach 12 pounds. Look for them in coastal waters, often near the surface in large schools. Spring through fall is prime time as they migrate. Anglers love targeting Spanish macks for their speedy runs and acrobatic jumps when hooked. They're also excellent eating, with a rich flavor. To catch them, try trolling small spoons or jigs behind planers to get down 5-15 feet. A local trick is to watch for birds diving - that often means Spanish are feeding on bait balls below. These fish have sharp teeth, so use a short wire leader. The meat is great grilled or smoked same day for the best flavor.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 15
Manufacturer Name: Detroit
Maximum Cruising Speed: 30
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 300
We had an unforgettable day out with Windwalker II Charters in Destin, Florida! The crew was experienced, professional, and made the entire trip smooth and enjoyable for everyone on board. The boat was spotless and fully outfitted, and Captain Bernie took us straight to some prime fishing spots. Whether you're new to fishing or have years under your belt, they make sure everyone feels included and has a great time. We reeled in some impressive catches and are already looking forward to our next trip!