Big John of Florida Deep Sea Fishing 

4.9/5 (202 reviews)
 
Federally permitted
 306 Harbor Boulevard, Destin, FL 32541, United States
 
Federally permitted
4.9/5 (202 reviews)
 angler's choice
map-thumbnail
306 Harbor Boulevard
Destin, FL, United States

Book your next trip with Big John of Florida Charter Boat and find out what makes the fishing in Destin so unique. With our Captain at the helm, you’re in knowledgeable and experienced hands.

These waters are known for Amberjack, Cobia, Flounder, Dolphin (Mahi Mahi), Goliath Grouper, Gag Grouper, Red Grouper, Scamp Grouper, Snowy Grouper, Red Snapper, Vermilion Snapper, Blackfin Tuna, and more – with any luck, it won’t be long before "Fish on!"

On these trips, you can expect to troll and bottom fish.

You’ll be dropping lines from a 52’ Offshore sport fishing with a capacity for 15 passengers. It comes with outriggers, downriggers, and everything else you need for a productive day on the water. There’s a toilet on board for your convenience.

Rods, reels, and tackle are included, along with lures. Live bait is available, but it’s good to ask about this so you know if you’ll be catching it yourself.

Trips are run with the help of a First Mate. Mates often work for tips and it’s customary to offer them a 20% tip.

The charter boat covers your fishing license, so all you have to do is show up ready for a good time! Have in mind that you may release some fish due to regulations. Simply ask and your captain can tell you more.

It’s always wise to bring sunscreen (non-spray), sunglasses, and bottled water. If you’d like to bring other drinks, just ask. Alcohol is allowed in moderation, but you should avoid hard liquor as well as glass bottles.

Your trip with Big John of Florida Charter Boat is just a click away, so why not make it happen?

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Customer reviews

Rating summary

4.9/5
out of 5 stars from 202 reviews
Boat
4.9/5
Crew
4.9/5
Experience
4.8/5

Photos & videos by reviewers (264)

Dennis and Billy were awesome
Fun Family Trip
Great Experience with Big John
+261

Angler rating

185
11
2
0
1

Anglers claimed

Good experience

95%

Appropriate for children

91%

Friendly captain

97%

Satisfied with the boat

98%

Recommend this charter

96%

Caught fish

97%

Showing 1 - 5 of 202 reviews
Showing: 5 of 202 reviews
Jason S.
Jason S.
5.0/5

Mar 21, 2025

6 Hour Bottom and Troll Fishing

5 Stars for sure!

VERIFIED

Big John’s Fishing Charters is absolutely top-notch! The Captain and crew were the best we’ve ever experienced—so engaged, helpful, and genuinely fun to be around. They made the trip an absolute blast from start to finish. We had two teenage boys with us who can’t stop talking about all the fish we caught—they’re already begging to go back! We caught an impressive amount of fish, and the crew made sure everyone was involved and having a great time. If you’re in Destin and looking for an unforgettable fishing adventure, I highly recommend Big John’s. We will definitely be booking with them again!

Big John’s Fishing Charters is absolutely top-notch! The Captain and crew were the best we’ve ever experienced—so engaged, helpful,...  

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Captain replied
 Jason S. recommends Big John of Florida Deep Sea Fishing
 Jason S. recommends Big John of Florida Deep Sea Fishing
undefined (The Captain)
Replied on March 23, 2025
Jason, we had so much fun 🤩 with you guys. We know you have many options in Destin and thank you for taking the time to leave us a 5 star ⭐️ review. That is always our goal. #fishonbigjohn #bigjohndeepseafishjng

Dave M.
Dave M.
5.0/5

Apr 24, 2025

6 Hour Bottom and Troll Fishing

Boys Day

VERIFIED

We had a great trip on the deep ocean with Big John. So much fun and sat us on fish at all stops. Easy, knowledgeable and fun conversations. Big fish and lots of variety. Denis and Corey were great and keep us baited and in the water. Shared fish and ocean knowledge with the group. Boat was clean and nice. Gear was very nice Highly recommend the Big John crew for your fishing experience. Big thanks to Holly for responding to my questions. Thanks to all of the crew of Big John’s and looking forward to a return fishing trip.

We had a great trip on the deep ocean with Big John. So much fun and sat us on fish at all stops. Easy, knowledgeable and fun...  

Review media 0
Captain replied
 Dave M. recommends Big John of Florida Deep Sea Fishing
 Dave M. recommends Big John of Florida Deep Sea Fishing
undefined (The Captain)
Replied on April 27, 2025
Dave, we had so much fun fishing with y’all! It was a great day filled with excitement. We know you have many options in Destin and thank you for choosing the Big John of Florida. The 5 star ⭐️ is always our goal and it makes our day when that happens.

Jacade R.
Jacade R.
5.0/5

Jul 29, 2025

8 Hour Bottom and Troll Fishing

Great Experience with Big John

VERIFIED
NEW

Big John’s captain Dennis and Deck hand Matt were awesome in coaching us to catch some really nice Big Red Snapper, Red Grouper, amber jack and a whole bunch of lesser amberjacks…and whole Lot of Mingo’s. Great vessel with AC and Place to cool off and eat when time Allowed. I recommend going out on a 8 hour trip. We will be going back soon.

Big John’s captain Dennis and Deck hand Matt were awesome in coaching us to catch some really nice Big Red Snapper, Red Grouper,...  

Review media 0
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Captain replied
 Jacade R. recommends Big John of Florida Deep Sea Fishing
 Jacade R. recommends Big John of Florida Deep Sea Fishing
undefined (The Captain)
Replied on August 10, 2025
Jacade thank you 😊 so much for this great review. We enjoyed a fun day fishing with all of you. The 5 star ⭐️ is always the goal and it makes our day when that happens.

Elba K.
Elba K.
5.0/5

Jul 19, 2025

5 Hour Begginer Fishing Experience

Good Times

VERIFIED
NEW

We started with quick instructions on tackle, equipment and safety. Stopped and caught the live bait we would use later in the trip. First stop didn’t produce fish very fast and captain waisted no time moving on. Put us on fish several times. I believe everyone enjoyed the trip. I liked these guys would book with them again.

We started with quick instructions on tackle, equipment and safety. Stopped and caught the live bait we would use later in the...  

Captain replied
 Elba K. recommends Big John of Florida Deep Sea Fishing
 Elba K. recommends Big John of Florida Deep Sea Fishing
undefined (The Captain)
Replied on July 22, 2025
Hi Elba and thank you for leaving us such a wonderful review. We enjoyed the day fishing the Gulf with y’all and hope to see you back again soon.

Alex J.
Alex J.
5.0/5

Mar 27, 2025

5 Hour Beginner Fishing Experience

Great Family Fishing Outing

VERIFIED

We don’t have enough great things to say about Dennis, Holly, and Cory. We brought 4 girls, all around the age of 9, and they’ve already said this is the best day of the vacation. The crew exceeded expectations with helping the kiddos learn and catch a whole lot of fish. Cory assisted my 10 year old in reeling in a 30 lb grouper and to my delight I think she’s hooked on the sport. We will 100% book this outfit again when we’re down here time. Thanks Big John!

We don’t have enough great things to say about Dennis, Holly, and Cory. We brought 4 girls, all around the age of 9, and they’ve...  

Review media 0
Review media 1
Review media 2
Captain replied
 Alex J. recommends Big John of Florida Deep Sea Fishing
 Alex J. recommends Big John of Florida Deep Sea Fishing
undefined (The Captain)
Replied on March 28, 2025
Thank you 😊 so much for leaving us such a nice review. We had an absolute blast 💥 fishing with you all. The girls were all so cute and fun to be with. It was fun seeing you at the Harbor Tavern restaurant enjoying your hook 🪝 and cook. Enjoy the rest of your time in Watercolor.

Trip availability and prices

Trip Date:
Days:
Group Size:
Select date to see availability
August 2025
SuMoTuWeThFrSa
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Number of days
1
Group Size
2 adults • 0 children
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Almost there...
4 Hour Beginner Troll Fishing
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
4 Hour Trip, starts at 11:00 AM
Seasonal trip Jul 30 - Jul 30
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US $1,599 
Entire boat: up to 15 people
4 Hour Beginner Troll Fishing
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
4 Hour Trip, starts at 6:00 AM
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US $1,600 
Entire boat: up to 15 people
4 Hour Beginner Troll Fishing
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
4 Hour Trip, starts at 12:00 PM
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US $1,600 
Entire boat: up to 15 people
5 Hour Beginner Fishing Experience
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
5 Hour Trip, starts at 2:00 PM
Seasonal trip Jul 10 - Jul 10
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US $1,600 
Entire boat: up to 15 people
4 Hour Beginner Troll Fishing
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
4 Hour Trip, starts at 3:00 PM
Seasonal trip Jul 7 - Jul 7
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US $1,600 
Entire boat: up to 15 people
5 Hour Begginer Fishing Experience
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
5 Hour Trip, starts at 6:00 AM
Loading...
US $1,700 
Entire boat: up to 15 people
5 Hour Beginner Fishing Experience
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
5 Hour Trip, starts at 11:00 AM
Seasonal trip Jul 30 - Jul 30
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US $1,700 
Entire boat: up to 15 people
5 Hour Beginner Fishing Experience
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
5 Hour Trip, starts at 12:00 PM
Loading...
US $1,700 
Entire boat: up to 15 people
5 Hour Beginner Fishing Experience
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
5 Hour Trip, starts at 3:00 PM
Seasonal trip Jul 7 - Jul 7
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US $1,700 
Entire boat: up to 15 people
6 Hour Bottom and Troll Fishing
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
6 Hour Trip, starts at 6:00 AM
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US $1,890 
Entire boat: up to 15 people
6 Hour Bottom and Troll Fishing
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
6 Hour Trip, starts at 11:00 AM
Seasonal trip Jul 30 - Jul 30
Loading...
US $1,890 
Entire boat: up to 15 people
6 Hour Bottom and Troll Fishing
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
6 Hour Trip, starts at 12:00 PM
Loading...
US $1,890 
Entire boat: up to 15 people
6 Hour Bottom and Troll Fish
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
6 Hour Trip, starts at 2:00 PM
Seasonal trip Jul 10 - Jul 10
Loading...
US $1,890 
Entire boat: up to 15 people
7 Hour Bottom and Troll Fish
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
7 Hour Trip, starts at 11:00 AM
Seasonal trip Jul 30 - Jul 30
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US $2,170 
Entire boat: up to 15 people
7 Hour Bottom and Troll Fish
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
7 Hour Trip, starts at 1:00 PM
Loading...
US $2,170 
Entire boat: up to 15 people
7 Hour Bottom and Troll Fish
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
7 Hour Trip, starts at 2:00 PM
Seasonal trip Jul 10 - Jul 10
Loading...
US $2,170 
Entire boat: up to 15 people
7 Hour Bottom and Troll Fish
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
7 Hour Trip, starts at 6:00 AM
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US $2,205 
Entire boat: up to 15 people
8 Hour Bottom and Troll Fishing
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
8 Hour Trip, starts at 6:00 AM
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US $2,400 
Entire boat: up to 15 people
8 Hour Bottom and Troll Fishing
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
8 Hour Trip, starts at 10:00 AM
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US $2,400 
Entire boat: up to 15 people
8 Hour Bottom and Troll Fish
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
1 Day Trip, starts at 11:00 AM
Overnight stay, liveaboard
Seasonal trip Jul 30 - Jul 30
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US $2,400 
Entire boat: up to 15 people
Sunset 8 Hour Bottom and Troll
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
8 Hour Trip, starts at 1:00 PM
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US $2,520 
Entire boat: up to 15 people
10 Hour Bottom and Troll Fishing
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
10 Hour Trip, starts at 6:00 AM
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US $3,150 
Entire boat: up to 15 people
10 Hour Bottom and Troll Fishing
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
10 Hour Trip, starts at 8:00 AM
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US $3,150 
Entire boat: up to 15 people
12 Hour Bottom and Troll Fishing
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
12 Hour Trip, starts at 6:00 AM
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US $3,780 
Entire boat: up to 15 people
12 Hour Bottom and Troll Fishing
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
12 Hour Trip, starts at 7:00 AM
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US $3,780 
Entire boat: up to 15 people
14 Hour Bottom and Troll Fishing
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
14 Hour Trip, starts at 5:00 AM
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US $4,410 
Entire boat: up to 15 people
16 Hour Bottom and Troll Fishing
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
16 Hour Trip, starts at 4:00 AM
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US $5,040 
Entire boat: up to 15 people
18 Hour Mahi/Sword/Marlin Fishing
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
18 Hour Trip, starts at 12:00 AM
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US $5,670 
Entire boat: up to 15 people
Target the Big Ones 24 Hour Trip
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
24 Hour Trip, starts at 7:00 PM
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US $7,200 
Entire boat: up to 15 people
Big Boy Fishing 36 Hr Rigs & Fads
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
2 Day Trip, starts at 10:00 PM
Overnight stay, liveaboard
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US $9,500 
Entire boat: up to 15 people
Trophy Fishing 48 hr Rigs & Fads
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
2 Day Trip, starts at 10:00 PM
Overnight stay, liveaboard
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US $11,500 
Entire boat: up to 15 people
There are 14 people looking at this charter.

Customer reviews

Rating summary

4.9/5
out of 5 stars from 202 reviews
Boat
4.9/5
Crew
4.9/5
Experience
4.8/5

Photos & videos by reviewers (264)

Dennis and Billy were awesome
Fun Family Trip
Great Experience with Big John
+261

Angler rating

185
11
2
0
1

Anglers claimed

Good experience

95%

Appropriate for children

91%

Friendly captain

97%

Satisfied with the boat

98%

Recommend this charter

96%

Caught fish

97%

Showing 1 - 5 of 202 reviews
Showing: 5 of 202 reviews
Jason S.
Jason S.
5.0/5

Experience:

5.0/5

Boat

5.0/5

Crew

5.0/5

Overall

5 Stars for sure!

VERIFIED

6 Hour Bottom and Troll Fishing on March 21, 2025

Big John’s Fishing Charters is absolutely top-notch! The Captain and crew were the best we’ve ever experienced—so engaged, helpful, and genuinely fun to be around. They made the trip an absolute blast from start to finish. We had two teenage boys with us who can’t stop talking about all the fish we caught—they’re already begging to go back! We caught an impressive amount of fish, and the crew made sure everyone was involved and having a great time. If you’re in Destin and looking for an unforgettable fishing adventure, I highly recommend Big John’s. We will definitely be booking with them again!

Big John’s Fishing Charters is absolutely top-notch! The Captain and crew were the best we’ve ever experienced—so engaged, helpful, and genuinely fun to be around. They made the trip an absolute blast from start to finish. We had two teenage boys with us who can’t stop talking about all the fish we caught—they’re already begging to go back! We caught an impressive amount of fish, and the crew made sure everyone was involved and having a great time. If you’re in Destin and looking for an unforgettable...  

Review media 0
Review media 1
Review media 2
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Review media 4
 Jason S. recommends Big John of Florida Deep Sea Fishing
undefined (The Captain)
Replied on March 23, 2025
Jason, we had so much fun 🤩 with you guys. We know you have many options in Destin and thank you for taking the time to leave us a 5 star ⭐️ review. That is always our goal. #fishonbigjohn #bigjohndeepseafishjng

Dave M.
Dave M.
5.0/5

Experience:

5.0/5

Boat

5.0/5

Crew

5.0/5

Overall

Boys Day

VERIFIED

6 Hour Bottom and Troll Fishing on April 24, 2025

We had a great trip on the deep ocean with Big John. So much fun and sat us on fish at all stops. Easy, knowledgeable and fun conversations. Big fish and lots of variety. Denis and Corey were great and keep us baited and in the water. Shared fish and ocean knowledge with the group. Boat was clean and nice. Gear was very nice Highly recommend the Big John crew for your fishing experience. Big thanks to Holly for responding to my questions. Thanks to all of the crew of Big John’s and looking forward to a return fishing trip.

We had a great trip on the deep ocean with Big John. So much fun and sat us on fish at all stops. Easy, knowledgeable and fun conversations. Big fish and lots of variety. Denis and Corey were great and keep us baited and in the water. Shared fish and ocean knowledge with the group. Boat was clean and nice. Gear was very nice Highly recommend the Big John crew for your fishing experience. Big thanks to Holly for responding to my questions. Thanks to all of the crew of Big John’s and looking...  

Review media 0
 Dave M. recommends Big John of Florida Deep Sea Fishing
undefined (The Captain)
Replied on April 27, 2025
Dave, we had so much fun fishing with y’all! It was a great day filled with excitement. We know you have many options in Destin and thank you for choosing the Big John of Florida. The 5 star ⭐️ is always our goal and it makes our day when that happens.

Jacade R.
Jacade R.
5.0/5

Experience:

5.0/5

Boat

5.0/5

Crew

5.0/5

Overall

Great Experience with Big John

VERIFIED
NEW

8 Hour Bottom and Troll Fishing on July 29, 2025

Big John’s captain Dennis and Deck hand Matt were awesome in coaching us to catch some really nice Big Red Snapper, Red Grouper, amber jack and a whole bunch of lesser amberjacks…and whole Lot of Mingo’s. Great vessel with AC and Place to cool off and eat when time Allowed. I recommend going out on a 8 hour trip. We will be going back soon.

Big John’s captain Dennis and Deck hand Matt were awesome in coaching us to catch some really nice Big Red Snapper, Red Grouper, amber jack and a whole bunch of lesser amberjacks…and whole Lot of Mingo’s. Great vessel with AC and Place to cool off and eat when time Allowed. I recommend going out on a 8 hour trip. We will be going back soon.  

Review media 0
Review media 1
Review media 2
Review media 2
Review media 3
 Jacade R. recommends Big John of Florida Deep Sea Fishing
undefined (The Captain)
Replied on August 10, 2025
Jacade thank you 😊 so much for this great review. We enjoyed a fun day fishing with all of you. The 5 star ⭐️ is always the goal and it makes our day when that happens.

Elba K.
Elba K.
5.0/5

Experience:

5.0/5

Boat

5.0/5

Crew

5.0/5

Overall

Good Times

VERIFIED
NEW

5 Hour Begginer Fishing Experience on July 19, 2025

We started with quick instructions on tackle, equipment and safety. Stopped and caught the live bait we would use later in the trip. First stop didn’t produce fish very fast and captain waisted no time moving on. Put us on fish several times. I believe everyone enjoyed the trip. I liked these guys would book with them again.

We started with quick instructions on tackle, equipment and safety. Stopped and caught the live bait we would use later in the trip. First stop didn’t produce fish very fast and captain waisted no time moving on. Put us on fish several times. I believe everyone enjoyed the trip. I liked these guys would book with them again.  

 Elba K. recommends Big John of Florida Deep Sea Fishing
undefined (The Captain)
Replied on July 22, 2025
Hi Elba and thank you for leaving us such a wonderful review. We enjoyed the day fishing the Gulf with y’all and hope to see you back again soon.

Alex J.
Alex J.
5.0/5

Experience:

5.0/5

Boat

5.0/5

Crew

5.0/5

Overall

Great Family Fishing Outing

VERIFIED

5 Hour Beginner Fishing Experience on March 27, 2025

We don’t have enough great things to say about Dennis, Holly, and Cory. We brought 4 girls, all around the age of 9, and they’ve already said this is the best day of the vacation. The crew exceeded expectations with helping the kiddos learn and catch a whole lot of fish. Cory assisted my 10 year old in reeling in a 30 lb grouper and to my delight I think she’s hooked on the sport. We will 100% book this outfit again when we’re down here time. Thanks Big John!

We don’t have enough great things to say about Dennis, Holly, and Cory. We brought 4 girls, all around the age of 9, and they’ve already said this is the best day of the vacation. The crew exceeded expectations with helping the kiddos learn and catch a whole lot of fish. Cory assisted my 10 year old in reeling in a 30 lb grouper and to my delight I think she’s hooked on the sport. We will 100% book this outfit again when we’re down here time. Thanks Big John!  

Review media 0
Review media 1
Review media 2
 Alex J. recommends Big John of Florida Deep Sea Fishing
undefined (The Captain)
Replied on March 28, 2025
Thank you 😊 so much for leaving us such a nice review. We had an absolute blast 💥 fishing with you all. The girls were all so cute and fun to be with. It was fun seeing you at the Harbor Tavern restaurant enjoying your hook 🪝 and cook. Enjoy the rest of your time in Watercolor.

FAQs about Big John of Florida Deep Sea Fishing

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The fish you can target

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What is the boat like?

Boat Image
Boat category
Sportfishing boats
Capacity
15 persons
Boat length
52 ft
Year built
1977
Restored in
2023
Boat manufacturer
G&S
Boat type
Sportfishing

Engine model
Cummins
Powered by
2 x 450HP
Max cruising speed
20 knots
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