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Mike Dates
Captain

Mike Dates

Destin, United States
100+ reviews
Mike has been a USCG-licensed Captain since 2002, but he's fished the waters of Destin since 1969. A true native to the area and he just can't get enough of the beautiful village and her incredible fishery. He will work tirelessly to put you on the fish, and employ his wealth of knowledge and experience on every trip he runs. On a personal note, I love this business because I get to meet some really great people everyday and I feel relaxed and at home on the water. Start out as a client, end the trip as a friend.

Charter

Rating

4.9
221 reviews
4.9
Boat & Equipment
5.0
Captain & Crew
4.9
Fishing Experience

What anglers say

97%
Good experience
100%
Friendly captain
99%
Recommend this charter
96%
Appropriate for children
99%
Satisfied with the boat
92%
Caught fish

All reviews (221)

Showing 1 – 5 of 221 reviews
  • Drake Duffy
    Drake Duffy
    us
    Atlanta, GA, US
    •
    Member since 2025
    5.0
    Verified

    This is the Charter to use!!!! Captain Mike is the best!

    5 Hour Trip (PM) • 3 adults • 1 child

    First Shot Charters is the Best! Captain Mike is a Master of his Craft. Going out for our First time on his 20ft boat was the perfect fit for me and my 2 sons. Captain Mike Skillfully navigated the waters, reading his Lowrance (FishFinder) screens like Neo from the Matrix. He landed us in great spots for an overall amazing fishing experience. He plays great music and answers any questions with an educational stance. We learned a lot and had the best time. First Shot Charters is the Way to go. Thanks Captain Mike!!!

    Reported catch:
    Spanish Mackerel
    Redfish
  • William Stiers
    William Stiers
    us
    Washington D.C., US
    •
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Great Experience!

    4 Hour Trip (PM) • 2 adults

    We had an amazing time on our fishing charter! There were four of us, and everyone had a great experience from start to finish. The Captain was friendly, helpful, and clearly knew all the best spots—we were reeling in fish all day. We ended up catching a cooler full of fish which was icing on the cake. Everything was well-organized, and the atmosphere was relaxed and fun. Highly recommend this charter to anyone looking for a successful and enjoyable day on the water!

    Reported catch:
    Spanish Mackerel
  • Matthew Raines
    Matthew Raines
    Repeat angler
    us
    Tennessee, US
    •
    Member since 2019
    •
    5 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Best Trip Ever

    6 Hour Trip (AM) • 4 adults

    Captain Mike is a great guy and put us on fish all day long. If you can handle it he will show you where the fish are. Book with Captain Mike you want be disappointed!!

  • Jamie Swenson
    Jamie Swenson
    us
    Minnesota, US
    •
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Holy Mackerel

    4 Hour Trip (PM) • 2 adults • 1 child

    Made some adjustments due to less than ideal weather and wnded up with plenty of fish. Me any my son had a great experience and would recommend Captain Mike to anyone.

    Response from Captain

    Thanks Jamie!! I had a great time!!

  • Hayden Raby
    Hayden Raby
    us
    Oklahoma, US
    •
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Great Experience !

    4 Hour Trip (PM) • 2 adults

    Good experience on our Destin Vacation, Capt. Mike was very respectful and great to be on the water with! We will definitely be back next year!

Real catches shared by our community

  • First Shot Charters
    First Shot ChartersDestin, FL
    Great experience for teenager
    Josh P.
    Josh P.
  • First Shot Charters
    First Shot ChartersDestin, FL
    Good fishing adventure with Captain Mike.
    Michael C.
    Michael C.
  • First Shot Charters
    First Shot ChartersDestin, FL
    fun trip!
    Aiden R.
    Aiden R.
  • First Shot Charters
    First Shot ChartersDestin, FL
    Best Trip Ever
    Matthew R.
    Matthew R.
  • First Shot Charters
    First Shot ChartersDestin, FL
    caught our limit
    Katherine S.
    Katherine S.
  • First Shot Charters
    First Shot ChartersDestin, FL
    Fishing with Mike
    Zack C.
    Zack C.
  • First Shot Charters
    First Shot ChartersDestin, FL
    Holy Mackerel
    Jamie S.
    Jamie S.
  • First Shot Charters
    First Shot ChartersDestin, FL
    great time
    Jason N.
    Jason N.
  • First Shot Charters
    First Shot ChartersDestin, FL
    This is the Charter to use!!!! Captain Mike is the best!
    Drake D.
    Drake D.
  • First Shot Charters
    First Shot ChartersDestin, FL
    Fantastic Time!
    Bryce D.
    Bryce D.

What's biting with First Shot Charters in Destin

As the crowds start to die down, there's no sign of the fishing going anywhere. The weather is still warm, so you should take advantage of this time of year, when Tuna and Sailfish come close to shore. 

Top catches for September