1st Choice Charters – Destin
4.8/5 (344 reviews)
Federally permitted
Harbor Boulevard 600, Destin, FL 32541, United States–
1st Choice Charters – Destin
Over 9 miles offshore
Destin, FL, United States
–27 feet
5
4.8/5 (344 reviews)
Angler's Choice
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1st Choice Charters is a top-rated, private fishing charter based in Destin, Florida, proudly continuing a strong local legacy under experienced new ownership.
Built on the foundation established by Capt. Payton Anderson, 1st Choice Charters is now operated by Capt. Anthony Dewberry, with ownership led by Blake Maddox, delivering professional, safe, and unforgettable fishing experiences on the Emerald Coast.
We specialize in completely private charters, perfect for families, beginners, and seasoned anglers alike. Whether you're learning the ropes or chasing your next trophy fish, our crew is committed to giving you a trip to remember.
Step aboard our 25' Sea Hunt Gamefish, a fast, comfortable, and fully equipped vessel featuring a private toilet, multimedia system, and cooler for your food and drinks. The boat accommodates up to 6 guests comfortably.
Trips include trolling for seasonal species and bottom fishing over productive reefs for fish such as Mahi Mahi, Red Snapper, Tuna, Grouper, Cobia, and more. You'll leave with fresh catch and lifelong memories.
All fishing licenses, gear, and professional fish cleaning are included — just bring your food, drinks, and sun protection.
(Children must be at least 10 years old.)
Book your trip with 1st Choice Charters today and experience why we're one of Destin's most trusted and highly rated charter operations.
1st Choice Charters is a top-rated, private fishing charter based in Destin, Florida, proudly continuing a strong local legacy under experienced new ownership.
Built on the foundation established by Capt. Payton Anderson, 1st Choice Charters is now operated by Capt. Anthony Dewberry, with ownership led by Blake Maddox, delivering professional, safe, and unforgettable fishing experiences on the Emerald Coast.
We specialize in completely private charters, perfect for families, beginners, and seasoned anglers alike. Whether you're learning the ropes or chasing your next trophy fish, our crew is committed to giving you a trip to remember.
Step aboard our 25' Sea Hunt Gamefish, a fast, comfortable, and fully equipped vessel featuring a private toilet, multimedia system, and cooler for your food and drinks. The boat accommodates up to 6 guests comfortably.
Trips include trolling for seasonal species and bottom fishing over productive reefs for fish such as Mahi Mahi, Red Snapper, Tuna, Grouper, Cobia, and more. You'll leave with fresh catch and lifelong memories.
All fishing licenses, gear, and professional fish cleaning are included — just bring your food, drinks, and sun protection.
(Children must be at least 10 years old.)
Book your trip with 1st Choice Charters today and experience why we're one of Destin's most trusted and highly rated charter operations.
Popular features
Fishing license
Live bait
You keep catch
Catch cleaning & filleting
Toilet
Popular features
Fishing license
Live bait
You keep catch
Catch cleaning & filleting
Toilet
Rating
4.8
344 reviews
4.7
Boat & equipment
4.9
Captain & crew
4.8
Fishing Experience
Anglers' gallery (263)
What anglers say
95%
Great experience
93%
Family friendly
100%
Friendly captain
96%
Good boat
96%
Recommended
88%
Caught fish
All reviews (344)
Filter
Sort by: Featured
Frequently mentioned
Showing 1 – 5 of 344 reviews
Benny Jones
Alabama, US
•
Member since 2026
1
5.0
Verified
“Hooked on Excellence!! The Best Fishing Charter Around”
4 Hour Trip – Offshore Fishing (AM) on March 21, 2026 • 2 adults • 1 child
We had an absolutely incredible experience out on the water. From the moment we stepped on board, the captain and crew were professional, knowledgeable, and fully committed to making sure we had a successful and enjoyable trip.
The action was nonstop!!! We caught a ton of fish, and every step of the process was handled with skill and precision. The crew stayed attentive the entire time, helping with baiting, casting, and keeping lines in the water so we could focus on enjoying the experience.
What really stood out was the level of customer service. These guys genuinely care about what they do, and it shows. They go above and beyond to make sure everyone on board has a great time, whether you’re experienced or it’s your first trip out.
If you’re looking for a fishing charter that delivers results, professionalism, and a great atmosphere, this is the one to book. We’ll definitely be back.
Reported catch:
Response from Captain
March 21, 2026
Benny, this right here means a lot 🙌🏽
We don’t just aim to put people on fish we aim to give an experience you’ll never forget, and it sounds like the crew delivered on all levels 🎣🔥
Nonstop action, teamwork, and making sure y’all could just enjoy the moment… that’s what 1st Choice is built on.
Appreciate you trusting us and taking the time to write this out. Y’all were a great group and we’ll be ready for round two whenever you are 💪🏽
Alyssa Youngren
Alabama, US
•
Member since 2025
1
5.0
Verified
Fishing with Blake
4 Hour Trip – Offshore Fishing (PM) on March 26, 2026 • 2 adults • 1 child
Me and my best friend took our sons on a fishing trip with First Choice Charters, and it was our very first charter experience and it did not disappoint! From the moment we got on the boat, the crew made us feel welcome and made sure we had an amazing time.
The kids had so much fun, we laughed the whole trip, and we caught plenty of fish! 🎣 It was such a great experience making memories with our boys out on the water.
If you’re thinking about booking a fishing trip, I highly recommend First Choice Charters. We had an awesome time and will definitely be back!
Reported catch:
Response from Captain
March 28, 2026
thank you so much alyssa we look forward to having you guys back!
Robert Schutte
Wisconsin, US
•
Member since 2026
1
5.0
Verified
High School Graduation Present
5 Hour Trip – Offshore Fishing on March 18, 2026 • 4 adults
We came to Destin as part of our Son's High School Graduation present and the #1 bucket list item was a charter fishing trip. We couldn't have had a better time. We caught 39 fish in 5 hours. Our son who doesn't care for fishing gave it a 10/10 fun experience. The crew took great care of us and on our way to try to get a grouper, we stopped and went after more Mingo when the captain saw a larg school of fish half way to the new spot.We dropped our hooks and was rewarded with about 20 more Mingo. Thanks for an amazing day on the Water.
Response from Captain
March 21, 2026
Robert, this is what it’s all about right here 🙌🏽
We’re honored you chose us for such a big moment for your son. 39 fish in 5 hours and turning a non-fisherman into a 10/10 experience… that’s a win every time 🎣🔥
I love that we was able to pivot and put y’all on that extra Mingo bite too that’s the difference between just a trip and a real experience.
Appreciate you trusting 1st Choice Charters with the memory. Y’all are welcome back anytime we’ll be ready to beat that 39 next trip 💪🏽
Chance Slagle
Arkansas, US
•
Member since 2026
0
5.0
Verified
New
We had a great time!
4 Hour Trip – Offshore Fishing (PM) on May 25, 2026 • 2 adults • 2 children
Captain Anthony was very knowledgeable and friendly. The boat was super clean, organized and new. We were catching fish almost every cast until a storm came. We ended up having to cut our trip short, but Captain Anthony made sure to get us back safely. 10/10 recommend this fishing charter! You won't regret it.
Response from Captain
May 30, 2026
Thank you, Chance! We truly appreciate you and your family trusting us with your trip. Captain Anthony takes a lot of pride in making sure every guest has a safe, fun, and memorable experience. We’re glad y’all were able to get on the fish before the weather moved in, and we’re even happier everyone made it back safely. We appreciate the recommendation and hope to have y’all back on board again soon!
Holly Rode
North Carolina, US
•
Member since 2026
0
5.0
Verified
Awesome trip — tons of fish and a great captain!
5 Hour Trip – Offshore Fishing (PM) on April 10, 2026 • 4 adults
We had an amazing time on this trip! We caught around 40 fish and stayed busy the whole time, which made it a blast from start to finish. The captain was awesome—super fun, easygoing, and clearly knew exactly where to go to keep us on fish. He also had great music playing, which made the whole experience even better.
If you’re looking for a fun, productive fishing trip with a great vibe, I highly recommend this one. We’ll definitely be back!
Response from Captain
April 12, 2026
Holly, this is what we aim for every trip! 🎣🔥
40 fish and nonstop action—that’s a day to remember. Capt. Anthony knows how to keep it fun, keep you on fish, and keep the energy right the whole time.
Appreciate you trusting us and taking the time to share this. We’ll be ready for y’all when you come back—next trip, we’re topping it. 💪
Trip availability and prices
Trip Date:
Group Size:
Select date to see availability
June 2026
| Su | Mo | Tu | We | Th | Fr | Sa | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Number of days
1
Almost there...
2 Hour Trip – Kids Trip
2 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
Seasonal trip
Sep 1 - Mar 1
US $700
Entire boat: up to 3 people
US $700
Entire boat: up to 3 people
4 Hour Trip – Offshore Fishing (AM)
4 hour trip starts at 6:00 AM
US $1,000
Entire boat: up to 3 people
US $1,000
Entire boat: up to 3 people
4 Hour Trip (AM)
4 hour trip starts at 11:30 AM
Seasonal trip
Sep 1 - May 31
US $1,000
Entire boat: up to 3 people
US $1,000
Entire boat: up to 3 people
4 Hour Trip – Offshore Fishing (PM)
4 hour trip starts at 1:30 PM
US $1,000
Entire boat: up to 3 people
US $1,000
Entire boat: up to 3 people
5 Hour Trip – Offshore Fishing
5 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
Seasonal trip
Sep 1 - May 31
US $1,125
Entire boat: up to 3 people
US $1,125
Entire boat: up to 3 people
5 Hour Trip (AM)
5 hour trip starts at 11:30 AM
Seasonal trip
Sep 1 - May 31
US $1,125
Entire boat: up to 3 people
US $1,125
Entire boat: up to 3 people
5 Hour Trip – Offshore Fishing (PM)
5 hour trip starts at 1:30 PM
Seasonal trip
Sep 1 - May 31
US $1,125
Entire boat: up to 3 people
US $1,125
Entire boat: up to 3 people
6 Hour Trip – Offshore Summer
6 hour trip starts at 6:00 AM
Seasonal trip
Jun 1 - Aug 31
US $1,350
Entire boat: up to 3 people
US $1,350
Entire boat: up to 3 people
6 Hour Trip – Offshore Fishing
6 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
Seasonal trip
Sep 1 - May 31
US $1,350
Entire boat: up to 3 people
US $1,350
Entire boat: up to 3 people
6 Hour Trip (AM)
6 hour trip starts at 11:30 AM
Seasonal trip
Sep 1 - May 31
US $1,350
Entire boat: up to 3 people
US $1,350
Entire boat: up to 3 people
6 Hour Trip – Offshore Fishing
6 hour trip starts at 1:30 PM
Seasonal trip
Sep 1 - May 31
US $1,350
Entire boat: up to 3 people
US $1,350
Entire boat: up to 3 people
6 Hour Trip – Offshore Summer
6 hour trip starts at 1:30 PM
Seasonal trip
Jun 1 - Aug 31
US $1,350
Entire boat: up to 3 people
US $1,350
Entire boat: up to 3 people
6 hr Offshore- (Federal Trip)
6 hour trip starts at 8:00 AM
US $1,650
Entire boat: up to 3 people
US $1,650
Entire boat: up to 3 people
8 Hr Offshore (Federal trip)
8 hour trip starts at 8:00 AM
US $2,200
Entire boat: up to 3 people
US $2,200
Entire boat: up to 3 people
10 Hr Offshore (Federal trip)
8 hour trip starts at 8:00 AM
US $2,750
Entire boat: up to 3 people
US $2,750
Entire boat: up to 3 people
There are 84 people looking at this charter.
Rating
4.8
344 reviews
4.7
Boat & equipment
4.9
Captain & crew
4.8
Fishing Experience
Anglers' gallery (263)
What anglers say
95%
Great experience
93%
Family friendly
100%
Friendly captain
96%
Good boat
96%
Recommended
88%
Caught fish
All reviews (344)
Filter
Sort by: Featured
Frequently mentioned
Showing 1 – 5 of 344 reviews
Benny Jones
Alabama, US
Member since 2026
1
5.0
Verified
“Hooked on Excellence!! The Best Fishing Charter Around”
4 Hour Trip – Offshore Fishing (AM) on March 21, 2026 • 2 adults • 1 child
We had an absolutely incredible experience out on the water. From the moment we stepped on board, the captain and crew were professional, knowledgeable, and fully committed to making sure we had a successful and enjoyable trip.
The action was nonstop!!! We caught a ton of fish, and every step of the process was handled with skill and precision. The crew stayed attentive the entire time, helping with baiting, casting, and keeping lines in the water so we could focus on enjoying the experience.
What really stood out was the level of customer service. These guys genuinely care about what they do, and it shows. They go above and beyond to make sure everyone on board has a great time, whether you’re experienced or it’s your first trip out.
If you’re looking for a fishing charter that delivers results, professionalism, and a great atmosphere, this is the one to book. We’ll definitely be back.
Reported catch:
Response from Captain
March 21, 2026
Benny, this right here means a lot 🙌🏽
We don’t just aim to put people on fish we aim to give an experience you’ll never forget, and it sounds like the crew delivered on all levels 🎣🔥
Nonstop action, teamwork, and making sure y’all could just enjoy the moment… that’s what 1st Choice is built on.
Appreciate you trusting us and taking the time to write this out. Y’all were a great group and we’ll be ready for round two whenever you are 💪🏽
Alyssa Youngren
Alabama, US
Member since 2025
1
5.0
Verified
Fishing with Blake
4 Hour Trip – Offshore Fishing (PM) on March 26, 2026 • 2 adults • 1 child
Me and my best friend took our sons on a fishing trip with First Choice Charters, and it was our very first charter experience and it did not disappoint! From the moment we got on the boat, the crew made us feel welcome and made sure we had an amazing time.
The kids had so much fun, we laughed the whole trip, and we caught plenty of fish! 🎣 It was such a great experience making memories with our boys out on the water.
If you’re thinking about booking a fishing trip, I highly recommend First Choice Charters. We had an awesome time and will definitely be back!
Reported catch:
Response from Captain
March 28, 2026
thank you so much alyssa we look forward to having you guys back!
Robert Schutte
Wisconsin, US
Member since 2026
1
5.0
Verified
High School Graduation Present
5 Hour Trip – Offshore Fishing on March 18, 2026 • 4 adults
We came to Destin as part of our Son's High School Graduation present and the #1 bucket list item was a charter fishing trip. We couldn't have had a better time. We caught 39 fish in 5 hours. Our son who doesn't care for fishing gave it a 10/10 fun experience. The crew took great care of us and on our way to try to get a grouper, we stopped and went after more Mingo when the captain saw a larg school of fish half way to the new spot.We dropped our hooks and was rewarded with about 20 more Mingo. Thanks for an amazing day on the Water.
Response from Captain
March 21, 2026
Robert, this is what it’s all about right here 🙌🏽
We’re honored you chose us for such a big moment for your son. 39 fish in 5 hours and turning a non-fisherman into a 10/10 experience… that’s a win every time 🎣🔥
I love that we was able to pivot and put y’all on that extra Mingo bite too that’s the difference between just a trip and a real experience.
Appreciate you trusting 1st Choice Charters with the memory. Y’all are welcome back anytime we’ll be ready to beat that 39 next trip 💪🏽
Chance Slagle
Arkansas, US
Member since 2026
0
5.0
Verified
New
We had a great time!
4 Hour Trip – Offshore Fishing (PM) on May 25, 2026 • 2 adults • 2 children
Captain Anthony was very knowledgeable and friendly. The boat was super clean, organized and new. We were catching fish almost every cast until a storm came. We ended up having to cut our trip short, but Captain Anthony made sure to get us back safely. 10/10 recommend this fishing charter! You won't regret it.
Response from Captain
May 30, 2026
Thank you, Chance! We truly appreciate you and your family trusting us with your trip. Captain Anthony takes a lot of pride in making sure every guest has a safe, fun, and memorable experience. We’re glad y’all were able to get on the fish before the weather moved in, and we’re even happier everyone made it back safely. We appreciate the recommendation and hope to have y’all back on board again soon!
Holly Rode
North Carolina, US
Member since 2026
0
5.0
Verified
Awesome trip — tons of fish and a great captain!
5 Hour Trip – Offshore Fishing (PM) on April 10, 2026 • 4 adults
We had an amazing time on this trip! We caught around 40 fish and stayed busy the whole time, which made it a blast from start to finish. The captain was awesome—super fun, easygoing, and clearly knew exactly where to go to keep us on fish. He also had great music playing, which made the whole experience even better.
If you’re looking for a fun, productive fishing trip with a great vibe, I highly recommend this one. We’ll definitely be back!
Response from Captain
April 12, 2026
Holly, this is what we aim for every trip! 🎣🔥
40 fish and nonstop action—that’s a day to remember. Capt. Anthony knows how to keep it fun, keep you on fish, and keep the energy right the whole time.
Appreciate you trusting us and taking the time to share this. We’ll be ready for y’all when you come back—next trip, we’re topping it. 💪
FAQs about 1st Choice Charters – Destin
The fish you can target
What is the boat like?
Boat category
Center console boats
Capacity
5 persons
Boat length
27 ft
Year built
2022
Boat manufacturer
Sea Hunt
Boat type
Center console
Engine model
Yamaha
Powered by
2 x 200HP
Max cruising speed
45 knots