Just 12 miles across the Choctawhatchee Bay from the “Luckiest Fishing Village in the World,” Fort Walton Beach could also stake a claim for that title. It’s no surprise, then, that Fort Walton Beach’s fishing charters have plenty to offer. From the inshore bays to the nearshore reefs, to the deep waters of the Gulf – there’s something here for everyone.
With access to the Choctawhatchee Bay and Santa Rosa Sound, there’s no shortage of inshore fishing opportunities. Get your fish on against Bull Redfish and Gator Spotted Seatrout, along with delicious Flounder and Sheepshead year-round. Add Tarpon to the mix in summer, and you’ve also got a fight on your hands.
Head to East Pass and you’ll come into contact with schools of Pompano, Bluefish, and Spanish Mackerel. But the real gems come a few miles further out at the productive reefs. Red Snapper takes the crown of the most-coveted fish, but there are plenty of Gag Grouper, Cobia, Amberjack, and Kingfish to keep you on your toes.
If that hasn’t whetted your appetite to wet your line, then wait until you hear what’s in store offshore. The deepwater canyons of the Gulf of Mexico attract a number of big game fish. Get ready for the fight of your life, as you go up against Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, Tuna, Sailfish, Marlin, and even Swordfish!
Trips can last as little as a couple of hours up to a full day inshore. Meanwhile, nearshore trips tend to last 6–8 hours. Heading offshore will require a lot more, so settle in for anywhere between 10 hours and a few days on the water.
Rules & Regulations
Your license will be covered aboard a Fort Walton fishing charter. Not only that, but your professional guide will be clued up on all the latest bag and size limits, so you can sit back and enjoy the incredible angling opportunities.