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World-Class Inshore Fishing Charters in Destin, FL
Destin, FLWhat you will be catching:
Crevalle Jack
Gag Grouper
Grey Snapper
King Mackerel
Red Snapper
Spanish Mackerel
Trip Pricing and Availabilities :
No trip pricing information available at this time.
Half-Day Fishing Fun in Destin's Inshore Waters
Ready for some rod-bending action just off Destin's shores? This half-day trip with Windwalker II Charters puts you right where the fish are biting. Whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time wetting a line, Captain Mike knows all the honey holes where snapper, mackerel, and more are waiting to give your arms a workout. With all the gear provided and licenses covered, all you need to bring is your sense of adventure and maybe a lucky fishing hat.
What to Expect on the Water
As soon as you step aboard Windwalker II, you'll feel the excitement building. The boat's a comfortable, well-equipped vessel perfect for navigating Destin's nearshore waters. Your morning starts early to beat the heat and catch the fish when they're most active. The captain will cruise to several prime fishing spots, giving you a chance to try different techniques and target various species. Don't worry if you're new to this – the crew's always ready with tips to help you land that trophy catch. And for the experienced anglers, there's plenty of opportunity to test your skills against some hard-fighting fish.
Rods, Reels, and Rigging Up
On this trip, you'll get hands-on with some serious fishing gear. The captain provides top-notch rods and reels suited for the species we're after. You might start off bottom fishing for snapper, using weighted rigs to get your bait down where the big ones lurk. Then, switch it up to some light tackle action for Spanish mackerel, maybe even trolling with small lures that mimic their favorite baitfish. When the jacks are running, be ready for some exciting topwater action – nothing beats seeing a fish explode on your lure! The crew's always on hand to help you switch out rigs and show you the best techniques for each target species.
Top Catches This Season
Destin's waters are teeming with a variety of gamefish, and what's biting can change with the seasons. In the warmer months, king mackerel often steal the show, making drag-screaming runs that'll have you hanging on tight. Red snapper season is always a highlight, with these tasty bottom-dwellers putting up a great fight. And don't overlook the crevalle jacks – they might not be the best for eating, but pound-for-pound, they're some of the hardest fighters in these waters. Gag grouper are another prized catch when they're in season, known for their powerful first run trying to get back to their rocky hideouts.
Species You'll Want to Hook
Crevalle Jack: These bruisers are the bulldogs of the sea. Crevalle jacks can grow up to 50 pounds and are known for their explosive strikes and tireless fights. They're often found in schools, so when you hook one, be ready for more action. While they're not the best for the dinner table, the sheer power of these fish makes them a favorite among sport anglers looking for a challenge.
Red Snapper: A prized catch in the Gulf, red snapper are as beautiful as they are delicious. With their bright red coloration and firm, white flesh, they're a favorite for both photographers and foodies. These fish typically hang around reefs and structures, so precise anchoring and proper bait presentation are key. The season for red snapper is strictly regulated, making the chance to catch one even more special.
Spanish Mackerel: Fast and ferocious, Spanish mackerel are the speedsters of the nearshore waters. They're known for their quick runs and acrobatic jumps when hooked. These fish travel in schools, so when you find them, the action can be non-stop. Light tackle and fast retrieves are the ticket to success with these toothy predators. Their firm, flavorful meat makes them excellent for grilling or smoking.
Gag Grouper: These heavyweight bottom-dwellers are the kings of structure fishing. Gag grouper use their powerful bodies to dive for cover as soon as they're hooked, making the first few seconds of the fight crucial. They're typically found near rocky bottoms and reefs, requiring skill to get them away from their hidey-holes. The reward for landing a gag grouper is some of the best-tasting fillets you'll ever have.
Grey Snapper: Also known as mangrove snapper, these crafty fish are a staple of inshore fishing. They're smaller than their red cousins but make up for it with their abundance and willingness to bite. Grey snapper require finesse and patience, often needing lighter lines and smaller hooks to fool them. They're excellent eating fish, with a sweet, mild flavor that's perfect for a variety of recipes.
King Mackerel: When a king mackerel hits your line, hold on tight! These sleek predators are known for blistering runs that can empty a reel in seconds. Trolling with live bait or artificial lures is the go-to method for targeting these speedsters. Kings can grow to impressive sizes, with some topping 50 pounds. Their firm, oily flesh is great for smoking, making them a popular target for both the fight and the table.
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
There's something special about fishing the waters off Destin. Maybe it's the way the emerald Gulf shimmers in the morning light, or the thrill of never knowing what might be on the end of your line next. But ask any regular, and they'll tell you it's the consistent action that keeps them coming back. With Windwalker II Charters, you're not just going fishing – you're tapping into years of local knowledge and a passion for putting clients on fish. The half-day format is perfect for fitting a trip into a busy vacation schedule or for those who want to wet a line without committing to a full day on the water.
Time to Book Your Spot
Whether you're looking to catch dinner, create lasting memories with family and friends, or just enjoy a morning on the beautiful Gulf waters, this half-day trip has you covered. With all gear provided and a knowledgeable captain at the helm, you're set up for success from the moment you step aboard. Destin's fish are waiting – all that's missing is you. Don't let this chance slip away – book your spot on Windwalker II Charters today and get ready for some serious rod-bending action!
Learn more about the species
Crevalle Jack
Crevalle Jacks are the bulldogs of the ocean - tough fighters that'll test your tackle. These golden-sided bruisers average 3-5 pounds but can top 60 pounds. You'll find them in Destin's inshore waters, hanging around structures like jetties or busting bait on the surface. Look for birds diving to spot a school. Jacks love a fast-moving lure, so try retrieving a silver spoon or topwater plug quickly. They're not known for table fare, but put up an exciting fight. My tip? When you see a school feeding, cast beyond them and speed-reel through the frenzy. Jacks can't resist chasing down a fleeing bait. Just be ready to hold on tight when one slams it!
Gag Grouper
Gag grouper are hard-fighting bottom dwellers that'll test your arms. These olive-brown fish average 10-20 pounds but can top 50. You'll find them around rocky bottoms, reefs, and wrecks in 60-250 feet of water off Destin. Fall is prime time as they move closer to shore. Anglers prize gags for their delicious white meat and powerful fight. They're ambush predators, so dropping a live bait near structure is your best bet. I like using pinfish or squid on a heavy bottom rig. Here's a tip: when you hook one, reel fast and steady to pull it away from its hole. Gags will try to dive back to cover, so be ready for a tug-of-war. It's a real rush when you finally get one of these bruisers to the boat.
Grey Snapper
Grey snapper, also called mangrove snapper, are sneaky fighters that'll keep you on your toes. These reddish-gray fish typically run 1-3 pounds inshore, but can reach 20 pounds offshore. You'll find them around mangroves, docks, and reefs in Destin's inshore and nearshore waters. They're most active at night, especially around the full moon. Anglers love targeting greys for their tasty white meat and challenging bite. They're wary fish, so use light tackle and natural presentations. Live shrimp is hard to beat for bait. Here's a local trick: when fishing docks, cast your bait upcurrent and let it drift naturally into the shadows. Grey snapper are masters at short-striking baits, so be patient and wait for a solid take before setting the hook.
King Mackerel
King mackerel, or kingfish, are the speedsters of Destin's waters. These silvery torpedoes average 15-30 pounds but can top 90. You'll find them in open water from 30-150 feet deep, often near bait schools. Spring and fall are prime seasons as they migrate. Anglers love kings for their blistering runs and aerial acrobatics. They're also good eating when prepared right. Trolling with live bait or big spoons is the go-to method. My tip? Use a wire leader - kings have razor-sharp teeth that'll slice through mono. When you hook one, be ready for the reel to scream as it peels off line. Watching a king skyrocket with your bait is a sight you won't forget. Just hold on tight and enjoy the ride!
Red Snapper
Red snapper are prized catches in Destin's waters. These ruby-colored beauties average 1-2 feet long but can grow to over 3 feet and 35 pounds. You'll find them near reefs, wrecks, and other structure in 30 to 600 feet of water. Red snapper season is short but sweet, usually in summer. Anglers love targeting them for their tasty white meat and strong, determined fight. To land one, drop your bait to the bottom and be ready for a hard pull. Live bait like cigar minnows works well, but I've had luck with squid too. Here's a local trick: when you feel that first bite, reel up quickly to get the fish away from structure before it can break you off. Red snapper make for some of the best eating around, so they're always a crowd-pleaser on charters.
Spanish Mackerel
Spanish mackerel are speedy swimmers that'll make your reel sing. These sleek, spotted fish typically run 1-2 feet long and a few pounds, but can reach 25 pounds. Look for them in Destin's nearshore waters, often in large schools chasing bait near the surface. Spring and fall are prime seasons as they migrate. Anglers love targeting Spanish macks for their fast runs and acrobatic jumps. They're also tasty eating, great for grilling or smoking. To catch them, try trolling small spoons or jigs behind the boat. My go-to trick is to use a long, light leader - these guys have sharp teeth that can slice through heavier line. When you see birds diving, that's your cue to cast. Spanish mackerel offer fast-paced action that's perfect for both newbies and seasoned anglers.
About the
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Vehicle Guest Capacity: 15
Manufacturer Name: Detroit
Maximum Cruising Speed: 30
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 300
