With a name like "The World's Luckiest Fishing Village" to live up to, it's no surprise Destin, Florida is the South's premier fishing destination along the Gulf of Mexico. What is now a world-class resort destination was built on it's humble fishing origins. Today, Destin hosts the largest charter fishing fleet in the world, and deep-sea fishing is the #1 activity sought by tourists and locals alike. Visitors to the Destin Harbor can also watch the fleets depart from the East Pass and return daily, and even see weigh-ins at the docks.
So why is fishing so great here? Destin is geographically blessed, located only 10 miles from the "100-fathom curve". Here the depth of the water drops to 600 feet where a variety of fish can be caught. Plus, anglers can take any fish they've caught and have it prepared at any local restaurant along the Harbor right off the boat! Some of the most popular annual fishing events take place along the Emerald coast as well — among them, the Blue Marlin Classic and the Destin Fishing Rodeo.
In addition to deep-sea fishing charters, there are an abundance of local spots to enjoy shore fishing, pier fishing, and bay fishing. Plus the abundance of streams and lakes offer freshwater fishing options as well! Whether you’re an experienced angler or new to the sport, fishing is a fantastic activity to participate in while you’re visiting Destin and the Gulf coast.