Destin is situated along the Gulf Coast in Florida's Panhandle, about 3 hours west of Tallahassee. According to the Destin Area Chamber of Commerce, Destin is also known as the world's luckiest fishing village. Anglers who enjoy jetty fishing can cast for a wide array of fish in Destin, including Spanish mackerel and bluefish.
Geography
The East Pass Channel jetties are one of many popular fishing spots in Destin. The jetties were built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in 1969 to protect the Gulf of Mexico's sifting sands. The jetties were constructed with large boulders, meaning anglers should expect some difficult walking. The west jetty can be accessed from the parking lot at the southwest end of the Hwy. 98 bridge. To get to the east jetty, use the Osteen Beach Access by turning south off Hwy. 98 onto Gulfshore Drive. Parking is available in a designated area near Destin Harbor.
Types of Fish
Game fish found near the jetties include channel bass, pompano, bonito, whiting, bluefish, sheepshead, sail cat, blue runner, Spanish mackerel, cobia, king mackerel and jack crevalle. Fish species vary by the season. Off the jetty in Choctawhatchee Bay, expect to find speckled sea trout, white trout, red fish, flounder and blue crabs.
Time Frame
Jetty fishing is most productive from April through October. The first schools of pompano arrive in April. As the daily tidal changes occur, the jetties become a prime feeding area for predator redfish and flounder. Redfish are most productive from April to May, while mangrove snapper are abundant from June to November. If you like casting for grouper, fish the jetties from September to November.
Fishing Techniques
When fishing Destin's jetties, your equipment and technique should vary. A 6-foot or 7-foot rod and a lightweight spin or bait casting reel with 8 to 12 lb. test monofilament or braid line is ideal when using surface lures. For bottom fishing, use an 8-to-10 foot medium to heavy action rod and a medium action spinning reel. A 20-to-30 lb. test monofilament or braid line is effective for bottom fishing. Try pompano jigs with a white head and a pink tail, squid baits and live shrimp. Egg and pyramid sinkers in 2-, 4- and 6-oz. sizes are also productive.
Regulations
All anglers age 16 and up are required to have a valid state-issued fishing license. According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, a recreational saltwater fishing license covers fishing from the jetty, shore, dock or a boat. If visiting Destin for only a short time, consider purchasing a nonresident 3-day or 7-day saltwater fishing license.
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