Expert-Guided Inshore Fishing in Destin, FL

Published Date: July 17, 2025
Fishing

Destin
$650 - $1,500 price range
Updated Date: August 28, 2025

Summary

Ready for a fun half-day on the water? Join Captain Tanner for a 4-hour fishing trip out of Shalimar, Florida. This versatile outing is great for families or small groups looking to mix fishing with other activities. You'll have a chance to catch popular Gulf species like Redfish, Snapper, and Triggerfish while using quality gear provided on board. If you want a break from fishing, cruise around, do some sightseeing, or even stop at Crab Island. The comfortable boat has room for up to 5 guests, making it perfect for a shared adventure. No need to bring tackle - just pack some snacks, drinks, and sun protection. Whether you're a first-timer hoping to reel in your first fish or an experienced angler wanting a relaxed day out, this trip offers something for everyone. Enjoy the beautiful waters around Shalimar while trying your luck at landing some of the Gulf's prized catches.

Expert-Guided Inshore Fishing in Destin, FL

Gulf Fishing Action

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Grey Triggerfish caught while fishing in FL

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Shalimar's Half-Day Fishing Bonanza

Get ready for some serious rod-bending action on this 4-hour inshore fishing trip in Shalimar, Florida. Captain Tanner's got you covered whether you're looking to haul in some trophy fish or just enjoy a relaxing day on the water. With a mix of fishing, cruising, and the option to hit up the famous Crab Island, this trip's perfect for families, friends, or anyone wanting to wet a line in the Gulf's crystal-clear waters.

What's the Deal?

You'll be hopping aboard a top-notch fishing boat that's rigged and ready for inshore action. Captain Tanner's got all the gear you need, so don't sweat it if you're not packing your own rod and reel. We'll be targeting a smorgasbord of species including Redfish, Red Snapper, Spanish Mackerel, Sea Trout, and Triggerfish. The beauty of this trip is its flexibility – want to spend more time fishing? No problem. Rather cruise around and soak up the scenery? We can do that too. And if the crew's itching for some sandbar fun, we might even swing by Crab Island for a quick dip.

Fishing 101: Shalimar Style

Inshore fishing in Shalimar is all about versatility. We might start off drifting live bait for Redfish near the grassy flats, then switch it up and drop some jigs for Snappers. If the Spanish Mackerel are running, we'll break out the light tackle and troll spoons – trust me, when these speedsters hit, it's non-stop action. For the Triggerfish and Sea Trout, we'll likely use a mix of artificial lures and live bait. Captain Tanner's always got a few tricks up his sleeve, so be ready to learn some local techniques that'll have you fishing like a pro in no time.

Fish Tales: What's Biting

Let's talk about the stars of the show – the fish you'll be chasing. Redfish are the bulldogs of the inshore world, known for their powerful runs and that distinctive spot on their tail. They love hanging around structure, so we'll be targeting docks, oyster bars, and grass flats. Red Snapper, while typically more of an offshore catch, can sometimes be found in deeper inshore waters. These guys are prized for their flaky white meat and put up a great fight on light tackle.

Spanish Mackerel are the speedsters of the bunch. When they're around, it's fast and furious fishing. They travel in schools, so when you hook one, chances are there are more nearby. Sea Trout, or Speckled Trout as the locals call 'em, are a favorite for their delicate flavor. They're ambush predators, so we'll be looking for them around drop-offs and grass beds.

Last but not least, there's the Triggerfish. These odd-looking critters with their tough, leathery skin are surprisingly tasty. They're known for their strong jaws (watch your fingers!), and they put up a surprisingly good fight for their size. The best part? They're almost always willing to bite, making them a great target when other species are being finicky.

Why Folks Keep Coming Back

It's not just about the fish – though that's a big part of it. The waters around Shalimar are some of the prettiest you'll find in Florida. Crystal clear on a good day, with that emerald tint that gives the Emerald Coast its name. You might spot dolphins playing in the wake, ospreys diving for their dinner, or even a sea turtle popping up to say hello. And let's not forget Crab Island – it's not actually an island, but a submerged sandbar that's become party central for boaters. If we swing by there, you'll see why it's such a hotspot.

What You Need to Know

Alright, let's talk logistics. The trip's set for 4 hours, which is plenty of time to get some serious fishing in. Captain Tanner's boat can handle up to 5 guests, so it's perfect for a family outing or a small group of friends. All the fishing gear is provided, so no need to lug your tackle box along. What you will want to bring is some grub and drinks – nothing beats a cold one while you're reeling in the big one (soft drinks for the kiddos, of course). Don't forget the sunscreen, a hat, and maybe a light jacket if it's a cooler day. Oh, and bring a camera – you'll want proof when you're telling your fish tales later!

Time to Wet a Line

So there you have it, folks – a half-day of fishing, fun, and Florida sun. Whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time holding a rod, this trip's got something for everyone. You'll learn some new tricks, catch some fish (fingers crossed for that trophy Red!), and make memories that'll last a lot longer than your sunburn. Captain Tanner's ready to show you the best spots Shalimar has to offer, so what are you waiting for? Grab your spot on the boat and let's get fishing!

Learn more about the species

Grey Triggerfish

Grey Triggerfish are quirky little fighters, usually 1-2 feet long and weighing up to 13 pounds. You'll find them around reefs and rocky areas in 30-180 feet of water. They're most active in warmer months when water temps are above 60°F. Triggerfish are fun to catch - they put up a stubborn fight for their size and have a unique look with their tough, leathery skin. They're also great eating, with a sweet, mild flavor. To catch one, use small hooks baited with squid or cut bait. Here's a local trick: when you feel a bite, wait a second before setting the hook. Triggerfish like to nibble before fully committing. Be ready for a tug-of-war - these fish are known for locking themselves in place with their dorsal fin when hooked. Patience and steady pressure usually win out.

Red Snapper

Red Snapper are a prized catch in our waters, typically running 1-2 feet long and up to 10 pounds. You'll find them hanging around reefs and other structure in depths of 30 to 600 feet. These fish put up a great fight and make for excellent eating with their mild, nutty flavor. Peak season is May through October when they're spawning. To land one, use heavy weights to get your bait down deep, and try cigar minnows or squid. A local trick: chum the water to get them feeding, then drop your line right in the middle of the action. Red Snapper can be clever, so be ready for a quick hookset when you feel that bite. Regulations can be strict, so we'll make sure you're fishing them legally while still having a blast reeling in these beautiful red beauties.

Redfish

Redfish, or Red Drum, are a blast to catch in our shallow waters. They usually run 28-33 inches and 10-20 pounds, but can grow much larger. You'll find them in 1-4 feet of water around oyster reefs, grass flats, and mangroves. They're active year-round but especially in fall when they school up. Redfish are known for their powerful runs and distinctive black tail spot. They're also great eating, with a mild, sweet flavor. To catch one, try live or cut bait on the bottom, or use artificial lures like gold spoons and soft plastics. Here's a local tip: look for "tailing" redfish in very shallow water, where their tails break the surface as they feed. Cast ahead of them and slowly retrieve your lure. When a big red takes off, hold on tight - they'll give you a fight to remember!

Sea Trout

Sea Trout, also called Speckled Trout, are a favorite inshore catch. They typically run 14-24 inches and 1-5 pounds, though some monsters can hit 40 pounds. You'll find them in grass flats and shallow waters, especially at night. They like cooler water, so fall through spring is prime time. Sea Trout are fun to catch - they put up a good fight and often strike topwater lures with exciting splashes. They're also great eating, with a mild, delicate flavor. To land one, try live shrimp under a popping cork or artificial lures like jerk baits and topwater plugs. Here's a local tip: look for them around oyster bars and creek mouths on moving tides. When you find a school, they'll often bite readily. Just remember, Sea Trout have soft mouths, so set the hook gently to avoid tearing it.

Spanish Mackerel

Spanish Mackerel are speedy swimmers that'll give your reel a workout. These silvery fish with yellow spots usually run 1-2 feet long and weigh up to 5 pounds. Look for them in schools near the surface, often around structures in open water. They're most active here from spring through fall when water temps are between 68-88°F. Mackerel are fun to catch - they hit hard and make blistering runs. Plus, they're tasty grilled or smoked. To land one, try trolling with shiny spoons or small jigs that mimic their favorite prey like sardines or anchovies. A local tip: watch for diving birds, that's often a sign Spanish Mackerel are feeding below. When you spot them, cast just beyond the school and retrieve quickly. These fish are fast, so be ready for some exciting action when they strike.

About the ProKat

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 5

Manufacturer Name: Yamaha

Maximum Cruising Speed: 40

Number of Engines: 2

Horsepower per Engine: 200

Hop aboard for a laid-back 4-hour fishing trip in Shalimar, Florida with Captain Tanner. This outing is great for families or small groups looking to mix fishing with some cruising and sightseeing. You might even stop by the popular Crab Island hangout spot. Try your luck reeling in Redfish, Red Snapper, Spanish Mackerel, Sea Trout, Triggerfish and more local species. The comfortable boat comes fully equipped with quality fishing gear, so you just need to bring along some snacks, drinks, and sun protection. Whether you're a first-timer or an experienced angler, you'll enjoy a relaxed day out on the beautiful Gulf waters. With room for up to 5 guests, it's a perfect way to spend a half-day soaking up the Florida sunshine and hopefully landing some nice catches.

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