Destin, FL Fishing?

Heading to Destin next week for a family vacation. I realize it's not the ideal season for fishing down there and it's been unseasonably cold, but does anyone in the area have any recommendations on what might be hitting, whether it's bay fishing, surf or deep sea? Guide recommendations?

I'm a Midwesterner not knowing the first thing about salt water fishing, but would love to get my 6 & 8 year olds on some fish! Any help would be appreciated!

 

Can't help with what's hitting this time of yearr but, I hit Destin as often as I can. Love deep sea / off shore fishing.

Hope you and your kids have a great time...update us with pics.

 

Thanks Joe D. If there are fish caught, pics will be posted!

 

Speckle trout, Spanish mackerel. If you're on a boat, head east. Usually out 3-5 miles from shore. Set one line with a cork and jig with the other. Flounder are pretty good in the upper panhandle too. It's been awhile since I fished down there but the yellow body/orange tail rubber lures always gave me the best results. If you can fish over an old wreck, aim for jewfish, well, now they call 'em Goliath Grouper.

 

Awesome, thanks a lot folks!

 

I've done that too. I charter out of the Fisherman's Wharf (that's the restaurant) and they cook your catch. It's pretty cool set up. Fisherman's Wharf is just west of Pelican Adventures.

 

Damn man I hope this isn't true. I've been going there since I was a kid.

http://www.nwfdailynews.com/busines...nown-restaurant-is-closing-its-doors-1.371748

 

pick up your trash from the beach please...

and drive safe. spring breakers are down and theyre stupid drunks.

 

I know this is past the dates mentioned by the OP, but for anyone else headed to the Destin/Ft Walton area, I will give an A+ to the Destin Princess. I think the same folks may also operate other boats as well. DP is one of the bigger 40+ passenger party boats and they work real hard at everyone, including the kids, having a great time.

 

I'm a resident. Been here 25 years. There are dozens of great captains and guides here. One of the largest charter fishing fleets in the country.
If you want some local direction/info on boats and captains.
Check out The Ships Chandler, speak w Peter Wright or Pete Jr. Awesome guys.
Or check in at Half Hitch Tackle.
Both on hwy 98 down town Destin. Ships Chandler is on the harbor. Half hitch is across the street and a block west.

 

i was just invited on an offshore trip in a few weeks on the Big John.

http://www.charterboatbigjohn.com/