2026 Red Snapper Season NEWS RELEASE

Spring break fishing along the Emerald Coast has been nothing short of outstanding, and our recent trips with Deep Charters out of Santa Rosa Beach and Destin, Florida have delivered consistent action for anglers of all experience levels. The biggest headline has been the new Okaloosa nearshore FADs (Fish Aggregating Devices), which are already producing exceptional results. These shallow water fish attracting devices have been holding strong numbers of mahi mahi, giving us steady offshore-style action just a short run from the beach. Clients have been thrilled with the opportunity to target pelagic species without needing a full-day trip. Closer to shore, the Spanish mackerel bite has been on fire inside Destin Harbor and along the Destin jetties. This has been a perfect option for families and spring breakers looking for fast-paced action, with multiple hook-ups and nonstop rod bending activity. We’ve also been finding quality mahi mahi on weedlines within 5–8 miles of the beach, another great sign that our spring pelagic season is ramping up early this year. These fish have been eager to bite and providing excellent table fare for our crews. For anglers booking our 6-hour trips, the bottom fishing has been just as consistent. We’ve been putting together solid catches of red grouper, giving clients a great mix of offshore action and dependable bottom fishing. Looking Ahead: April Pelagic Season Heating Up As we move deeper into April, everything is lining up for an incredible spring pelagic fishing season along the 30A and Destin coastline. Historically, this is when the fishing really takes off—and we’re already seeing early signs of what’s to come. Over the past several seasons, Deep Charters has consistently produced tuna and marlin catches around the FADs throughout April and May, and we expect this year to be no different. With warming water temperatures and increasing bait activity, the Gulf is coming alive. Whether you're targeting mahi mahi, tuna, or even a shot at a billfish, now is the time to get on the schedule. Book Your Trip Spring dates are filling quickly, especially during peak season along Santa Rosa Beach, 30A, and Destin. If you're planning a trip, now is the time to lock it in and take advantage of some of the best fishing of the year.

Fishing in October with Deep Charters: October is one of the most exciting months for anglers in Destin, Florida and Santa Rosa Beach. As the summer crowds diminish, the waters become more inviting, and the fishing ramps up with an incredible variety of species. Our favorite time to target pelagic species and the month long Destin Fishing Rodeo. Deep Charters offers exceptional experiences during this peak season, combining expert guidance with the best fishing spots to ensure a memorable adventure. Destin Fishing Rodeo One of the highlights of October in Destin is the renowned Destin Fishing Rodeo, held annually from October 1 through October 31. This month-long event is a celebration of the area's rich fishing heritage, attracting anglers from around the country. Participants compete for impressive prizes by catching record-breaking fish, and the rodeo's leaderboard features various categories including red snapper, amberjack, and king mackerel. Deep Charters plays a vital role in helping anglers participate effectively, offering tailored trips that maximize the chances of success during the rodeo. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a novice, the experienced crew ensures you have the equipment, knowledge, and support needed to pursue your target species. Pelagic Fishing: Wahoo and Sailfish October is prime time for pelagic fishing off the coast of Destin, particularly for species like wahoo and sailfish. These highly sought-after game fish thrive in the warm Gulf waters and are known for their speed and fighting spirit, providing adrenaline-pumping experiences for anglers. Over the last two weeks, we have been catching sailfish within a 1/2 mile of the Beach! Wahoo enthusiasts can expect to encounter these fast, elusive predators striking on trolling lines, often around the coral reefs and deep water structures. Wahoo are prized for their delicious meat and are a favorite among sport fishermen. Sailfish, on the other hand, are iconic for their striking appearance and incredible agility. They typically migrate through the area during October, offering spectacular sight fishing opportunities. Catching a sailfish is a true test of skill, requiring patience and precise technique, which Deep Charters expertly provides through their knowledgeable crew and quality equipment. We are also offering our overnight oil rig trips for the Rodeo. Captain Jon Polk with Deep Charters won the 1st and 2nd place yellowfin tuna category last year for the Rodeo. Opting for Deep Charters during October offers numerous advantages: Expert Guidance: Professional captains with local knowledge help target the most productive fishing spots. Equipment and Bait: Top-of-the-line gear and quality bait increase your chances of a successful catch. Customized Trips: Whether you want to focus on pelagic species or participate in the Destin Fishing Rodeo, trips can be tailored to your preferences. Unforgettable Experience: The combination of scenic Gulf waters, abundant wildlife, and exciting fishing creates memories that last a lifetime. In conclusion, October is an exceptional month for deep-sea fishing in Destin, especially with the exciting events of the Fishing Rodeo and the thrill of pelagic species like wahoo and sailfish. Deep Charters provides the expertise and resources needed to make your fishing adventure successful and enjoyable. Book your trip today and experience the best that Destin's fall fishing season has to offer The month of October brings two things for Deep Charters. Historically, pelagic fish such as Wahoo, Sailfish, Mahi Mahi, and even Blue Marlin come in really close to shore during the month of October. The Fall 2025 season has kicked off with an incredible sailfish bite with many of our fish being caught within a mile of shore. If you want to get the opportunity to catch these fish within sight of land, October is your month. As if thats not good enough, October is also The Destin Fishing Rodeo. Deep Charters is registered as an official charter vessel for the entire month and any fish you catch will be eligible to weigh in on the docks at AJ's in Destin. There are daily, weekly, and overall prizes for multiple species. Hundreds of spectators crowd the docks daily to watch weigh-ins. There are over 30,000 anglers that compete each year in the Rodeo. Book with Deep Charters today for a great Fall fishing experience.