Apex Charters And Rentals 

4.9
(466 reviews)
 
State licensed
 4603 Legendary Marina Drive, Destin, FL 32541, United States–

Apex Charters And Rentals 

Destin, FL, United States
–
28 ft
5
4.9
(466 reviews)

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Apex Charters And Rentals wishes you a warm welcome to Destin, a prime angling destination in Florida. Join Captain James Scott in exploring waters both near and off the shore and have a fishing trip you'll remember for a long time. There are lots of lovely species to catch and the captain's an expert, so just pick a day and book your next sea adventure!

Your trip starts on a 28' Sailfish center console, a boat that has enough space to carry 5 guests. It runs on two 150 HP Yamaha engines, uses full-featured navigation electronics, and is equipped with downriggers, snorkeling gear, and a livewell. The boat's also got a toilet, wireless trolling motor, and a multimedia system.

Some of the many prized species you can go after include Mahi Mahi, Almaco Jack, Amberjack, cobia, wahoo, king mackerel Pompano, and Snapper. You'll use both heavy and light tackle to catch, with plenty of techniques to choose from. Try your hand at bottom and deep sea fishing, trolling, jigging, drift fishing, as well as handline fishing. You're free to keep your catch and kids are more than welcome to come on board.

When it comes to things you'll need for the trip, just make sure you pack some food and drinks and the captain will take care of everything from gear to licenses to catch cleaning.

Join in and have a trip of your life with Apex Charters And Rentals!

Apex Charters And Rentals wishes you a warm welcome to Destin, a prime angling destination in Florida. Join Captain James Scott in exploring waters both near and off the shore and have a fishing trip you'll remember for a long time. There are lots of lovely species to catch and the captain's an expert, so just pick a day and book your next sea adventure!

Your trip starts on a 28' Sailfish center console, a boat that has enough space to carry 5 guests. It runs on two 150 HP Yamaha engines, uses full-featured navigation electronics, and is equipped with downriggers, snorkeling gear, and a livewell. The boat's also got a toilet, wireless trolling motor, and a multimedia system.

Some of the many prized species you can go after include Mahi Mahi, Almaco Jack, Amberjack, cobia, wahoo, king mackerel Pompano, and Snapper. You'll use both heavy and light tackle to catch, with plenty of techniques to choose from. Try your hand at bottom and deep sea fishing, trolling, jigging, drift fishing, as well as handline fishing. You're free to keep your catch and kids are more than welcome to come on board.

When it comes to things you'll need for the trip, just make sure you pack some food and drinks and the captain will take care of everything from gear to licenses to catch cleaning.

Join in and have a trip of your life with Apex Charters And Rentals!

James Scott
Captain
James Scott
18 years of experience
ID & credentials verified
responds within an hour

Select date to see availability

Trip date:
Group Size:
November 2026
SuMoTuWeThFrSa
Group Size
2 adults • 0 children
Change
6 Hour Trip – Offshore
FREE Cancellation 7 days notice
6 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
Amberjack
Cobia
Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
Snapper (Red)
+6
US $975
Entire boat: 2 people
8 Hour Trip – Going Big
FREE Cancellation 7 days notice
8 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
Amberjack
Cobia
Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
King Mackerel (Kingfish)
+7
US $1,125
Entire boat: 2 people

Customer reviews

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Rating

4.9
466 reviews
5.0
Boat & equipment
5.0
Captain & crew
4.9
Fishing Experience

Anglers' gallery (644)

What anglers say

96%
Great experience
92%
Family friendly
100%
Friendly captain
100%
Good boat
98%
Recommended
91%
Caught fish

Reviews (466)

  • Liz Reddmann
    Liz Reddmann
    Repeat angler
    us
    Arkansas, US
    Member since 2023
    2 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    The Best Captain!!

    Bad weather short trip on July 31, 2026 • 3 adults • 1 child

    We’ve been out with Captain James before, but this time we decided to bring our 8 year old son along for his very first deep sea fishing trip. Recent storms left the water extremely rough, and unfortunately, the motion got the best of us and we all ended up seasick. But Captain James handled it like an absolute pro! He prioritized our comfort, pivoted quickly, and moved us in closer to shore where the water was much calmer so we could keep fishing safely. He was patient, engaging, and so fantastic with our son. It takes a truly top tier captain to turn a day of rough weather into an absolute blast. We had the best time and can’t recommend him enough!!

  • Michael Galloway
    Michael Galloway
    us
    Missouri, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Great Experience!

    6 Hour Trip – Offshore on July 20, 2026 • 2 adults

    If you’re looking for a top-tier offshore fishing experience in Destin, look no further than Captain James! From start to finish, Captain James was exceptionally professional and communicative. He made coordination effortless and kept us informed every step of the way. Once on board, it was immediately clear how much pride he takes in his operation—his boat is pristine, amazingly clean, and meticulously organized. What truly set the trip apart, though, was Captain James himself. He’s incredibly friendly, thoughtful, and genuinely focused on making sure everyone on board has a fantastic, safe, and memorable trip. He tailored the experience to us and made sure we were on the fish and having a blast the entire time. Hands down one of the best charter experiences we’ve had in Destin. We can't wait to book our next trip with Captain James!

  • Robert Anderson
    Robert Anderson
    us
    Georgia, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Amazing Trip!

    8 Hour Trip – Going Big on July 3, 2026 • 4 adults • 1 child

    If you are looking for an incredible day on the water, look no further than Captain James with Apex Charters. We recently headed out for a deep-sea charter with him, and it was an absolutely stellar experience from start to finish. ​Captain James is the definition of a professional. He was incredibly honest right from the start, setting clear expectations for the day so we knew exactly what to look forward to. His patience and demeanor were outstanding, and he was especially great with the kids on board, making sure they felt involved and comfortable throughout the trip. ​The fishing was nothing short of spectacular. Thanks to his expertise and local knowledge, we had an action-packed day, bringing in over 30 Mahi, 5 Bonita—including a beautiful 11-pounder—and a nice Triggerfish to round it out. ​Whether you are a seasoned angler or planning a family outing, Captain James provides a top-tier service. We couldn't have asked for a better Captain and are already looking forward to our next trip with him. Highly recommended!

  • Cammie Neatherland
    Cammie Neatherland
    us
    Louisiana, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Fun trip.

    6 Hour Trip – Offshore on June 24, 2026 • 3 adults • 1 child

    We had an amazing deep-sea fishing trip with Captain James! He took my 7-year-old son out fishing and was incredibly patient, kind, and encouraging the entire time. He made sure my son felt comfortable and had a great experience on the water. Captain James did an excellent job keeping us on the fish all day. We caught amberjack, red snapper, and mahi-mahi, and the action never seemed to stop. His knowledge, professionalism, and friendly attitude made the trip enjoyable from start to finish. If you're looking for a great fishing guide, especially for families with young kids, I highly recommend Captain James. We'll definitely be booking another trip with him!

  • Kailee Lee
    Kailee Lee
    us
    Tennessee, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    Bad weather short trip on June 8, 2026 • 2 adults

    We had an incredible experience with Apex Charters! The captain was friendly, knowledgeable, and made the entire trip so much fun from start to finish. You can tell they genuinely care about giving their guests a great day on the water. The boat was clean, everything was well organized, and they worked hard to keep us on fish. Whether you’re an experienced fisherman or just looking for a fun day out, Apex Charters is really the perfect choice. We made some amazing memories and are already talking about booking another trip soon. Thank you for such a great experience—we highly recommend Apex Charters to anyone looking for a fantastic day on the water! 🎣☀️🐟

  • Tim Truitt
    Tim Truitt
    Repeat angler
    us
    Texas, US
    Member since 2019
    2 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Apex Charters

    6 Hour Trip – Offshore on August 30, 2026 • 4 adults

    We had a great time with Captain James and Apex Charters. His communication prior to trip was excellent. There were 2 couples fishing. The winds were up and the water was not ideal. We were also coming off a full moon the night before. Captain James was very knowledgeable and helpful. He put us on some fish even though it was a bit rough. The boat and equipment were top notch! The twin 150 HP outboards were great and no diesel fumes. I would highly recommend using Apex Charters for your next fishing trip in Destin.

  • Brandon Ward
    Brandon Ward
    Repeat angler
    us
    Alabama, US
    Member since 2020
    2 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Captain James is the best!!!!

    6 Hour Trip – Offshore on July 18, 2026 • 3 adults

    I booked a six hour trip for me and my two grown boys with Apex Charters and it was the absolute best fishing trip I've ever been on. Captain James is top notch! he put us on fish and kept us on fish. We all had an absolute blast. Lots of laughs and lots of great stories. If you are looking to catch fish and have a great all around experience Apex Charters with Captain James is the route to go! Thanks again Captain we had a great time and will definitely be getting together with you again!!

  • Brad Seward
    Brad Seward
    us
    Ohio, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    captain James was top notch

    8 Hour Trip – Going Big on August 12, 2026 • 4 adults

    we did an 8 hour offshore with captain James and apex charters. despite mother nature whipping up some choppy seas, we nearly limited on mahi mahi. the captain worked his tail off keeping the poles baited and storing the fish. he was extremely knowledgeable of locations of schools and where to drop our lines. we did decide to come in a little early due to the increasing roughness of the sea. the captain prepared our fish to go once we were back and took a bunch of photos for us

  • Gerald Russell
    Gerald Russell
    us
    Alabama, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Great Fishing!

    6 Hour Trip – Offshore on June 7, 2026 • 3 adults

    Capt James put us on fish throughout the day. excellent catch and great day for memories. We caught a variety of species. Red Grouper, Red Snapper, Mangrove Snapper, Mahi, and several we didnt keep like trigger, blue runners, bonita, and a huge amberjack. really great day on the water! great first fishing trip fir my daughter and son in law! We recommend Apex Charters and Captain James!

  • Karen Puroll
    Karen Puroll
    Repeat angler
    us
    Illinois, US
    Member since 2022
    3 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Fish on in the Bay!

    Bad weather short trip on April 10, 2026 • 4 adults

    Captain James was great, even before we arrived at the marina. Unfortunately, mother nature kept us from our original off shore charter and he worked with us to switch to a half day inshore trip. Our group was looking for a tasty dinner table catch and he delivered by putting us on lots of Spanish Mackerel. In a 3 hour span, we headed back to dock with 28 fish. It was a gorgeous day in the bay, despite a few ‘Greg-ing it ups’. We had the best time and look forward to a future trip with Captain James to catch some Mahi!

FAQs about Apex Charters And Rentals

Apex Charters And Rentals offers the following trips to customers:
  • US $975 per group, additional US $75 per person after 2 guests - 6 Hour Trip – Offshore (6 hours)
  • US $1,125 per group, additional US $75 per person after 2 guests - 8 Hour Trip – Going Big (8 hours)
When you book a trip with Apex Charters And Rentals, you can expect the following amenities onboard:
  • Toilet Inclose restroom with fresh water sink.
  • GPS
  • Fishfinder
  • Live bait well
  • Multimedia system
  • Wireless trolling motor
  • Outriggers
  • Radar
Trips booked with Apex Charters And Rentals include:
  • Rods, reels & tackle
  • Live bait (Bait is included in the price. If the bait guys are out on the water, i buy bait. If not, we will catch our bait on the way out.)
  • Lures
  • Catch cleaning & filleting (Cleaning and filleting is incuded in the price.)
  • Fishing license (FL state fishing permits are included in the price. The charter license covers all passengers for the fishing.)
Apex Charters And Rentals offers the following types of fishing:
  • Inshore fishing
  • Nearshore fishing
  • Offshore fishing (We are a state charter boat. We mainly stay in state water and runs east to west up to 25 miles. Some federal water trolling is also permitted.)
  • Reef fishing
  • Wreck fishing
Apex Charters And Rentals offers the following fishing techniques:
  • Light tackle
  • Heavy tackle
  • Bottom fishing
  • Trolling
  • Jigging
  • Drift fishing
  • Handline
  • Deep sea fishing
Top targeted fish species with Apex Charters And Rentals include:
  • Amberjack
  • Cobia
  • Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
  • Grouper (Gag)
  • Jack (Almaco)
  • King Mackerel (Kingfish)
  • Shark (Blacktip)
  • Shark (Bull)
  • Snapper (Red)
  • Snapper (Vermilion)
  • Triggerfish (Gray)
  • Wahoo

Your captain

James Scott
James Scott
Destin, Florida, United States
8 Fishing Reports
ID & license verified
466 Customer reviews
Typical response within an hour
Member since March 2021
Angler's Choice
The Angler's Choice Award is given to listings that consistently deliver a high-quality service and earn great reviews from customers.
Captan James is a longtime angler with a great personality. He loves working outdoors and has a desire to always improve. Charters are extremely work-intensive but can also be very rewarding. He loves to see smiles on his clients' faces, especially the kids. The captain lived in the Philippines for 5 years where he honed his fishing skills. He has the knowledge and the drive to make sure each trip is successful. His main goal is safety first, and a great adventure as a close second.
James Scott
James Scott
Fully verified
Angler's Choice
8
reports
466
reviews
2021
member since
~1h
response
Captan James is a longtime angler with a great personality. He loves working outdoors and has a desire to always improve. Charters are extremely work-intensive but can also be very rewarding. He loves to see smiles on his clients' faces, especially the kids. The captain lived in the Philippines for 5 years where he honed his fishing skills. He has the knowledge and the drive to make sure each trip is successful. His main goal is safety first, and a great adventure as a close second.

The fish you can target

Amberjack
Amberjack
Cobia
Cobia
Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
Gag Grouper
Gag Grouper
Almaco Jack
Almaco Jack
King Mackerel (Kingfish)
King Mackerel (Kingfish)
Blacktip Shark
Blacktip Shark
Bull Shark
Bull Shark
Red Snapper
Red Snapper
Vermilion Snapper
Vermilion Snapper
Gray Triggerfish
Gray Triggerfish
Wahoo
Wahoo
Amberjack
Amberjack
Cobia
Cobia
Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
Gag Grouper
Gag Grouper
Almaco Jack
Almaco Jack

Real catches by this captain

  • Two anglers proudly displaying a large Mahi Mahi after a successful fishing trip, with a scenic marina backdrop.
    Fish 1
    Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
    Cory N.
    Cory N.
    We caught a ton if Mahi! James was great and got us on the bite quick even though seas were rough. This is a great boat for a couple or small family. We went without thr kids this time and had a ton of room on the boat.
  • A variety of fish, including Mahi Mahi and Snapper, displayed on a fillet table at a dock, showcasing a successful fishing trip.
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
    Colin S.
    Colin S.
    My wife’s first time out on the water we had a great time bite started out slow but Captain James found fish after a few stops and we loaded the boat with mahi and some nice snapper. Thanks to Captain James and his wife for a fun day on the water.
  • Angler proudly holding a colorful mahi-mahi at a dockside fish-cleaning station.
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    +4
    Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
    Dylan G.
    Dylan G.
    We had to move days because of weather but everything worked out great. We were put right on top of fish and the action was nonstop.
  • A proud angler displaying a large Red Snapper at a fish cleaning station, surrounded by other catches from a successful fishing trip.
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    Red Snapper
    Nathan L.
    Nathan L.
    Captain Scott was great! Extremely knowledgeable and knows the local fishing area. If you want to catch fish and have a great time, book with Captain Scott.
  • Angler proudly displaying a large Amberjack caught while fishing offshore, showcasing a successful day on the water.
    Tim T.
    Tim T.
    We had a great time with Captain James and Apex Charters. His communication prior to trip was excellent. There were 2 couples fishing. The winds were up and the water was not ideal. We were also coming off a full moon the night before. Captain James was very knowledgeable and helpful. He put us on some fish even though it was a bit rough. The boat and equipment were top notch! The twin 150 HP outboards were great and no diesel fumes. I would highly recommend using Apex Charters for your next fishing trip in Destin.
  • A variety of fish including Mackerel and Snapper neatly arranged on a cleaning table, showcasing a successful fishing trip.
    Fish 1
    Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
    Chris E.
    Chris E.
    fantastic trip. captain is friendly and knows what he is doing. he worked hard all day to put us on fish. caught about 25 mahi mahi, a few triggers and a nice amberjack. highly recommended and would fish with him again.
  • A variety of fish neatly arranged on a fillet table at a dock, showcasing a successful fishing trip.
    Fish 1
    Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
    Mason H.
    Mason H.
  • A group of anglers proudly displaying their catch of Mahi Mahi on a catch board after a successful fishing trip.
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
    Brad S.
    Brad S.
    we did an 8 hour offshore with captain James and apex charters. despite mother nature whipping up some choppy seas, we nearly limited on mahi mahi. the captain worked his tail off keeping the poles baited and storing the fish. he was extremely knowledgeable of locations of schools and where to drop our lines. we did decide to come in a little early due to the increasing roughness of the sea. the captain prepared our fish to go once we were back and took a bunch of photos for us
  • Seasoned cooked fish fillets arranged on a decorative plate, showcasing a prepared seafood catch.
    Fish 1
    Red Grouper
    Gary B.
    Gary B.
    We have been coming to Destin for the past 12 years and have always talked about getting a charter…2026 was the year and Apex Charters did not disappoint! Captain James was the best. We caught over 5 different species and had an absolute blast. Highly recommend Apex Charters and Capatin James…we will be back!
  • A family poses proudly beside a catch of Mahi Mahi displayed on a cleaning table after a successful fishing trip.
    Fish 1
    Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
    Liz R.
    Liz R.
    We’ve been out with Captain James before, but this time we decided to bring our 8 year old son along for his very first deep sea fishing trip. Recent storms left the water extremely rough, and unfortunately, the motion got the best of us and we all ended up seasick. But Captain James handled it like an absolute pro! He prioritized our comfort, pivoted quickly, and moved us in closer to shore where the water was much calmer so we could keep fishing safely. He was patient, engaging, and so fantastic with our son. It takes a truly top tier captain to turn a day of rough weather into an absolute blast. We had the best time and can’t recommend him enough!!

What is the boat like?

Boat image
Boat category
Center console boats
Capacity
5 persons
Boat length
28 ft
Year built
2019
Boat manufacturer
Sailfish
Boat type
Center console
Engine model
Yamaha twin 150s
Powered by
2 x 150HP
Max cruising speed
42 knots

What kind of fishing will you do?

Inshore Fishing
Nearshore Fishing
Offshore Fishing
Reef Fishing
Wreck Fishing

Which fishing techniques you can try

Light Tackle
Heavy Tackle
Bottom Fishing
Trolling
Jigging
Drift Fishing
Handline
Deep Sea Fishing

Which amenities are available onboard

Toilet
Inclose restroom with fresh water sink.
GPS
Fishfinder
Live bait well
Multimedia system
Wireless trolling motor
Outriggers
Radar
What's included in the trip price
Rods, reels & tackle
Live bait
Bait is included in the price. If the bait guys are out on the water, i buy bait. If not, we will catch our bait on the way out.
Lures
Catch cleaning & filleting
Cleaning and filleting is incuded in the price.
Fishing license
FL state fishing permits are included in the price. The charter license covers all passengers for the fishing.

How cancellations work

Free cancellation up to 7 days prior to trip
You can cancel or modify your booking up to 7 days before the trip date, free of charge. If you cancel or modify your booking later, or fail to show up, you'll forfeit 100% of what you've paid.
More details

What the listing policies are

Pickup not included
Transfer to/from departure site is not included in trip rates.
Child friendly
No real age limit, we only ask they are big enough to sit in the seat area on their own. We provide lifejackets for all kids 12 and under.
You keep catch
Catch and release allowed

How you can pay

Book with 30% deposit, pay rest to captain
When the captain confirms your trip, FishingBooker charges your credit card a 30% deposit to guarantee your reservation.
The remaining balance is to be paid directly to the charter operator on or prior to your trip date in one of the following payment methods:
 Cash
 Visa
 Mastercard
 American Express
When paying the remaining balance with a credit card, an additional 5% charge will apply.

What’s biting in Destin right now

AmberjackAmberjack
CobiaCobia
Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
Grouper (Gag)Grouper (Gag)
King Mackerel (Kingfish)King Mackerel (Kingfish)
Shark (Blacktip)Shark (Blacktip)
Shark (Bull)Shark (Bull)
Snapper (Red)Snapper (Red)
Snapper (Vermilion)Snapper (Vermilion)
Triggerfish (Gray)Triggerfish (Gray)
WahooWahoo

Compare similar fishing charters

Current
Apex Charters And Rentals
Apex Charters And Rentals
State licensed
4.9
(466)
28 ft
Group size 1 - 5
1 - 5
Fish 1
Fish 2
+10
6 hour trip • 5 persons
US $975