If you’re a fishing enthusiast, then you know that there’s no greater feeling than getting out on the sea and waiting for that big catch. Deep sea fishing is one of the most thrilling fishing experiences you can have. From mahi-mahi to marlin to red snapper, there’s no shortage of awesome fish to catch in the Gulf Of Mexico.
Planning your first deep sea fishing trip? There are a few things you need to know in order to make your fishing trip a big success. Read on to learn everything you need to know about planning unforgettable deep sea fishing trips in Destin, Florida.
1. Boat Options
Unless you’re lucky enough to reside in Destin and own your own boat, when you visit, you’re going to have to charter a boat for your deep sea fishing trip.
There are a few things you need to consider when chartering a boat, not the least of which is whether the charter company goes out far enough for deep sea fishing.
The first thing you need to consider is your budget. How much you can afford to spend will dictate a huge portion of the trip. From the size of the boat to the number of people who can come to the length of the trip — and don’t forget to budget for gear and the cost of travel.
The next thing you’ll want to consider is the size of the group coming with you. If you have a larger group, you can divide up the cost and get a private charter. Smaller and solo fishing trips are better suited for shared charters, that is, if you don’t mind fishing with strangers.
If you want optimum privacy and you have a small group, you can always spring for a private charter, it’ll just cost a bit more money.
Don’t forget to do your due diligence and do some research on the captain. Get feedback from friends who’ve already gone on deep sea fishing trips and check out online reviews. You don’t want to end up several miles out in the ocean with a captain you don’t trust.
2. How Long Do You Want to Fish?
How long you want to fish is important in determining two things: the time you spend out on the water and the type of boat you’ll need. After all, the longer you’re on the water, the bigger the boat you’re going to need.
At a minimum, you should prepare to spend half a day out on the water — approximately four to six hours. These shorter trips are great for beginners, people who don’t have a ton of time, and trips with small children. These are great because you can choose between morning and afternoon departure times.
For people who want more time on the water, there are also 3/4 day trips that vary from eight to ten hours in length. These work well for people who have plenty of time to be out on the water and want to flex their deep sea fishing skills.
There are also all day trips in which fishers leave early in the morning and get back late at night. Expect to spend between 12 and 16 hours out on the water. All day trips are best for experienced deep sea fishermen who want to try their hand at bottom fishing and offshore trolling.
3. What Type of Fish Are You Looking For?
The type of fish in which you want to catch will determine where you go in the water. More importantly, it will also determine when you’ll be able to make your trip.
You can’t go out looking for red snapper in January when the season is only open during June and July. If you’re open to catching different types of fish and not looking for one specific type of fish, then you’ll have more flexibility when you plan the timing of your trip.
4. Do You Need Amenities on the Boat?
Just like hotels, different charter boats have different levels of amenities. If you’re planning a very short trip, then it might not matter if you’re heading out on a boat that doesn’t have a bathroom, but you’ll definitely want one if you’re going to be out on the water all day.
Different boats have different types of amenities. Spendier boats have full kitchens, while less expensive boats will minimize amenities. Determine the things you absolutely need, like a fighting chair, kitchen, or bathroom and select your charter boat from there.
5. Follow the Laws and Regulations
You may be in the open ocean, but, just like on land, you will have to comply with strict laws and regulations.
Lucky for you, on a charter boat, you won’t need a fishing license so long as the charter boat has a charter license. You’ll still have to comply with bag limits and only keeping fish that you’re legally permitted to keep at that time. Your captain and crew should supply a wealth of knowledge when it comes to which fish you can keep and which ones will have to be released to catch another day.
6. Come Prepared
No deep sea fishing trip will be successful if you fail to bring the right deep sea fishing gear.
First things first: your clothing. You probably won’t need a warm windbreaker if you’re headed out during the summer, but you’ll definitely need it during cooler months. And, no matter when you go out, don’t forget to bring sunscreen!
The next thing you’re going to need is the appropriate tools and gear. Your standard rod and reel aren’t going to be enough to bring in the big boys. You’ll want saltwater rods and reels, proper tackles, and a fighting belt, at a minimum. Once again your charter boat should supply all of the necessary fishing gear and bait.
And don’t forget a cooler full of drinks and food, and some snacks, too!
Ready to Plan Some Deep Sea Fishing Trips to Destin?
Planning a deep sea fishing trip may seem overwhelming, but these tips will help you navigate the process. In the end, you’ll end up with great memories and, hopefully, a whole lot of awesome fish. After having a successful first trip, this is bound to be the first of many deep sea fishing trips in Destin, Florida!
Ready to get started planning your deep sea fishing trip? You’ve come to the right place! Contact us today to book a charter and reel ’em in!
Looking to book a fishing trip sometime between October 5 & 12th , 3-4 hrs 2 adults 2 kids ages 11 & 15. Not sure who to book with?? It’s a little overwhelming at all the charters available! We want to fish just off the beach in the gulf so I’m guessing that’s called near shore fishing? Also what fish are in season during that time? Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated. Thanks…
October is a great time to fish in Destin! The annual Destin Fishing Rodeo goes on the entire month and you and your family have a good chance at weighing in “the big one”. Give us a call and we can get you setup for your near shore fishing trip. – Captain Couvillion 850-259-9125
[…] But Destin has also turned into a popular fishing destination over the years. There are so many offshore fish species that fishermen can catch when they take a fishing trip to Destin. […]
[…] But Destin has also turned into a popular fishing destination over the years. There are so many offshore fish species that fishermen can catch when they take a fishing trip to Destin. […]
In Florida the best fishing trips charters are offered by the website https://smokingacesadventures.com/fishing_charters
Let us know the next time you’re in Destin we would love to take you out on a trip!
I like how you mentioned that you should plan for at least half a day out on the water for deep-sea fishing. Next month I am visiting my brother in Hawaii and we are thinking about doing deep-sea fishing. I’ll be sure to remember these tips as my trip to Hawaii comes closer.
Have fun on your trip to Hawaii! Tight lines
Good day. I’m researching charter boat trips to celebrate my husbands 60th birthday. What do you have available in January & June (late) ? Please include 1/2 Daya and full days with pricing and both types?
Do you include supplies and materials as we are coming from out of state.
Good afternoon! We would love to have you and your husband for his 60th. You can view our rates here. https://seawinder.com/rates/
We do have openings in January and late June. Please call captain Chris at 850-259-9125 to book your trip. All supplies (fishing licenses, rods, reels, restrooms, etc.) are included with the trip. Here’s a little more detail about what is included and what you may want to bring. https://seawinder.com/faq/
We look forward to hearing from you!
I like when you said that if you’re a fishing enthusiast, then you know that there’s no more incredible feeling than getting out on the sea and waiting for that big catch. My father will be celebrating his birthday soon. I plan to surprise him with a fishing experience. Thank you for giving me the idea of where and how to avail of a fishing boat rental service.
Thank you for pointing out that it is a good idea to consider the size of the group that is coming with you when you are going on a deep-sea fishing charter. It seems like it would be a good idea to find a large fishing boat if you are going to be taking a large group with you. You would want a large boat since you don’t want people to get claustrophobic during the trip.
Thanks for pointing out the need for a warm windbreaker if you will go on deep-sea fishing during cooler months. My husband and I will take note of this because we talked about renting a fishing boat three nights ago. Our plan is to have a family trip with our two children and explore some water activities next month, so your tips are helpful.
Oh, hey! You have no idea how long I’ve been searching for this kind of article because my husband will be travelling to Florida this weekend for a fishing trip with his relatives. It was truly enlightening when you suggested that several hours on the sea should be enough if we’re new to such an activity while giving us some ample time to learn about fish catching. This is something I should share with him so he could be well-prepared for the journey later on.
Great tips about deep sea fishing. I am a boating and fishing enthusiasts myself, and I follow these steps too when going out in the waters to fish.