Located on the shores of Florida's Emerald Coast, Destin Beach features white sandy beaches and the cool waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The mild Floridian weather and crisp sea air make it a great place to enjoy outdoor activities of all kinds. One of the most popular activities in Destin Beach is fishing.
Identification
Destin is located on a peninsula on Florida's Panhandle that separates the Gulf of Mexico and Choctawhatchee Bay. The city calls itself "The World's Luckiest Fishing Village," and for good reason. Its location on the Gulf provides ample fishing opportunities near shore and out at sea for a wide range of species.
The Catch
Many different species of fish are available off of Destin Beach. The catch depends on the different seasons and whether you fish near shore or out in the deep waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Deep sea fishing yields marlin, sailfish, mahi-mahi, wahoo, grouper and red snapper, in addition to triggerfish, amberjack and scamp. Anglers who troll closer to shore or fish off of one of the many docks and jetties will see cobia, tuna, mackerel, bonito, bluefish, sail cat, pompano, channel bass and whiting.
Charters
Charters are big business in Destin, Florida. With dozens of boats to choose from, fishermen should have no problem finding a charter that fits their needs and budget. Popular charters include: Destin Fishing Charters, Bounty Hunter Charter Boat, Breakaway Charter Boat, Huntress Charter Boat, Mindy Lou II Charters and Jack M Up Charter Fishing to name a few. The cost for renting a charter boat varies depending on the size and quality of the boat and the number of people on board. The cost usually includes a fishing license and fishing equipment.
Licensing
Anglers over the age of 16 are required to purchase a saltwater fishing license unless they are only fishing from a charter boat. Nonresidents can purchase a three-day, seven-day or annual license for between $17 and $47, as of 2010. Annual and five-year licenses are available to residents for $17 and $79, respectively. Residents also have the option of purchasing an annual shoreline license that costs only $9, as of 2010.
Destin Rodeo
The Destin Rodeo is one of the largest fishing tournaments in the United States. Each year in October, thousands and fishermen flock to Destin to compete for more than $100,000 worth of prizes. Contestants automatically qualify for the tournament if they fish off of a boat that is entered in the Rodeo.
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