Destin, located along Florida's Emerald Coast, is known to have some of the best beaches in the world. Fishing and kayaking are among the favorite sports of visitors and residents alike. Destin is home to an abundance of marsh areas, bayous and lakes inhabited by many varieties of fish. Motorboats in the shallower areas scare the fish, making it wise to fish from a kayak or canoe.
Destin
Destin is a popular beach resort town in the Flordia panhandle on the Gulf of Mexico. Destin is committed to preserving the environment while providing residents and visitors outstanding beaches, state parks and other amenities. The 100-fathom curve is closer to Destin than any other area in Florida, providing deep-water boating access.
Selecting a Kayak
Fishing from a rented kayak can be difficult unless you rent a kayak designed especially for fishing. Many rental shops in Destin offer fishing kayaks and all the fishing gear. Purchasing a kayak should include test paddling the kayak with the fishing equipment aboard. At a minimum include a rod and bait holder. Visit the local paddle shops and try out the models you are interested in.
Accessories
The size of your kayak determines the amount of gear that can be stowed. Fishing gear used on a kayak should be light and easy to stow. Some of the items to consider are a fish finder, rod holders, bait tank or live well and paddle clips to allow maneuvering the kayak and fishing simultaneously. Always wear a life vest which can be purchased or leased from many shops in Destin. Helmets will protect you from low branches and other obstacles and should be part of your gear.
The Catch
Kayak fishing in the inland waterways, back bays, lakes and shore areas of Destin is an adventure that can produce a varied catch. There are flounder, red drum or "redfish," several types of mackerel, pompano, speckled trout and grouper, to name a few varieties. Bait can be purchased at the tackle and bait shops that line the waterways in Destin. Shrimp is a good all-round bait or you can purchase lures to carry with you.
Licensing
You must have a Florida fishing license to fish in Destin unless you are under the age of 16 or 65 and older with proof of Florida residency. Disabled Florida residents and armed forces personnel on leave are exempt from the fees. The fees for the year 2010 run from a $17 three-day license for a nonresident to a $79 lifetime license for a resident. The licenses can be purchased at tax collectors' offices.
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