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Channel Catfish Fishing Charters In Fort Walton Beach

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Recently Booked Channel Catfish Fishing Charters Near Fort Walton Beach, Fl

Fishing in Fort Walton Beach

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Fort Walton Beach

Kid's Fishing Adventure

100% (1)
20 ft 1 - 6 People From $375

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Other Trips in Fort Walton Beach

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
trip description for Trolling Trip - Mahi Wahoo Billfish in Destin

Embark on an extraordinary fishing adventure as we set sail from Destin, FL, under the moonlit sky. Our midnight departure takes you 20 to 30 miles offshore, where the deep waters hold a treasure trove of remarkable catches. Get ready to experience the thrill of a lifetime. Our fishing trips offer you the flexibility to tailor your experience to your preferences. Choose to engage in deep dropping or enjoy a full day of trolling, all according to your desires. Whether you're seeking the challenge of bottom fishing, the excitement of heavy tackle fishing, the allure of live bait fishing, or the anticipation of trolling, our experienced crew will guide you every step of the way. The abundant waters off the coast of Destin are home to an array of remarkable species. As we venture further offshore, be prepared to target Blackfin Tuna, Mahi Mahi, Snowy Grouper, Tilefish, and the lightning-fast Wahoo. These prized catches promise unforgettable battles and a true sense of accomplishment. Our crew will provide you with top-of-the-line fishing gear and equipment, ensuring that you have the tools necessary to land these impressive fish. From expert guidance to a deep understanding of the local waters, we are dedicated to delivering a memorable and successful fishing experience. As the sun rises, casting its golden glow on the ocean's surface, you'll find yourself immersed in the natural beauty that surrounds you. The open waters offer a serene and breathtaking backdrop for your fishing adventure. So, gather your fellow anglers and prepare for an unforgettable journey into the depths. Book your trip today and experience the thrill of the chase, the satisfaction of reeling in remarkable catches, and the memories that will last a lifetime. Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Destin

Trolling Trip - Mahi Wahoo Billfish

NEW
48 ft 1 - 8 People From $4,200
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
trip description for Amberjack in Destin

This is a great trip for the people who want to go try for the big ones! AmberJack season is here! We got an early amberjack season this year and are excited to chase these amazing fish. It has the reputation of being one of the hardest fighting reef fish in the Gulf of Mexico. Most people only want to catch one of these because they beat you up the entire fight from the bottom all the way to the top. If you want to try your luck catching one of these bad ass fish we would love to give you the chance! Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Destin

Amberjack

NEW
52 ft 1 - 19 People From $3,850
Damn Good
A Certified Damn Good Guide is someone who goes above and beyond to show you an incredible experience on your trip. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
trip description for Half Day Adventure in Destin

This trip starts at the docks in the Harborwalk Village of Destin. Upon arrival you will meet with your captain or one of our associates. If your charter begins at 6am (7am off-season) that is when your charter boat will set off from the docks. Your charter service starts with a cruise through the Destin Harbor and out into the Destin Pass. After reaching the end of the Destin Pass we will set up to begin catching our Live Bait. This usually takes 30 mins (give or take) to catch enough Live Bait to fish with during your fishing trip. After we have enough Live Bait we head out into the Gulf of Mexico to begin catching reef or pelagic fish. It all depends on how the fish are biting that day but we will either stay in one area for the rest of your trip or we will move to another fishing spot. Good Bottom Fishing for, Red Snapper, Vermillion Snappers, Mangrove Snappers, Lane Snappers, White Snappers, Triggerfish, Groupers, and Amberjack to keep if in season. Tolling for Pelagic Species such, as King Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel, Mahi Mahi, Blackfin Tuna, and Bonito Tuna. Also, a great Shark Fishing 🦈 charter! After a few hours of fishing (depending on your hourly trip) we will then head back to the docks. This will usually be a 1 hour ride back (depending on your hourly trip) to the harbor. During this time you and your friends can crack open a cold one or relax on the quick trip back to the docks. Immediately after arriving at the docks your captain and crew will clean all your fish for you so you can take your catch with you. You have the option to give your fresh caught fish to most (if not all) restaurants on the Harbor. They will cook up your fish with one of their restaurant dishes for you. You can’t beat this! This is a perfect way to top off the evening from a great time on the water! This boat is Federally Permitted. *Please Note, 8 Hour and 10 Hour charters depart at 6:00am only. You can choose 6 hours at 6:00am or 1pm. Read More

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Destin

Half Day Adventure

NEW
52 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,625
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
trip description for Family Fun Half Day Adventure in Destin

This trip is focused on families with children that want to get out on the water and make some memories while visiting the Emerald Coast. Read More

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Destin

Family Fun Half Day Adventure

100% (1)
27 ft 1 - 4 People From $850
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
trip description for Epic Summer Sportfishing in Destin

Get out there and enjoy this thrilling fishing adventure with Captain Jason, an experienced fisherman and captain of a magnificent 53' G&S sportfisher. This offshore fishing charter out of Destin, FL is the ultimate way to experience the best that the Gulf of Mexico has to offer! As you step on board, you will be greeted by the crew and will have the opportunity to admire the sleek lines of this state-of-the-art fishing machine. Equipped with the latest technology and gear, this vessel is designed to provide a safe, comfortable and productive fishing experience. This vessel is fully equipped for epic offshore fishing, including a Furuno SSB, a Furuno Color Fishfinder, 96nm radar, a Furuno 3D Nav Chartplotter, aNorthstar GPS/Chartplotter, VHF radio, EPIRB, and way more! Everything you need is provided, so you can rest easy and focus on hauling in some monster fish! Once you have settled in, Captain Jason will brief you on the day's plan and give you a rundown on the various fishing techniques that will be used. With years of experience fishing these waters, he knows where to find the biggest and most elusive fish, including Cobia, Red Snapper, Kingfish, Grouper, Triggerfish, Amberjack, and many other popular gamefish species. These fish have something for everyone, from great fights on the troll to fun bottomfishing! In addition, several of these are delicious table fare, so you can take home some amazing dinners as well! With Captain Jason and his team by your side, you can be sure that your day of fishing will be an unforgettable experience. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day out on the water or an adrenaline-fueled battle with the biggest fish in the Gulf, this offshore fishing charter is the perfect choice. So come and join Captain Jason and discover the thrill of offshore fishing in Destin, Florida! Read More

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Destin

Epic Summer Sportfishing

NEW
53 ft 1 - 22 People From $3,600
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
trip description for Destin Trolling & Bottom Fishing in Destin

Head further offshore to explore the Destin's prolific Gulf waters anywhere from 18-25 miles offshore! These 8 hour trips give Captain Kyle more time to implement a couple different techniques to catch different pools of species. Trolling these offshore waters can solicit a Mahi, Wahoo, Mackerel, or even a Tuna bite, while bottom fishing Captain Kyle's favorite reefs and offshore structure opens the door to a plethora of species like Grouper, Snapper, and Big Jacks. This trip is a great experience to catch some fish to bring home or to reel in just for a photo! Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Destin

Destin Trolling & Bottom Fishing

100% (1)
40 ft 1 - 6 People From $2,560
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
trip description for Destin Deep Dive: 8-10 Hour in Destin

Climb aboard Captain Matthew's sportfisher for an action-packed close offshore adventure! After launching from the dock, you will ride out of Destin Pass and start our fishing trip. For these 8-10 hour trips you can travel up to 35 miles offshore. At these depths, there is no telling what you'll find on the end of your line when the reel starts screaming! Usually, you will troll on your ride out. While trolling with Captain Matthew, you may have a chance to catch many species, such as King Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel, and Bonitas. These are the more common fish. Other species you might encounter as well are Wahoos, Dolphins, Blackfin Tunas, Barracudas, and Sailfish. During your travel out to deeper water, the mates will be working to make sure you are ready to go when we get to our fishing spot. They will be cutting bait, getting rods ready, and teaching you the basics of fishing school. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a complete novice, Captain Matthew and his crew are very patient and do the best job possible to make sure you are trained up and ready to go. Once you arrive at our fishing destination, Captain Matthew will have you fishing for different species in various ways, depending on what you're after! When we are finished fishing, we will head back home. During this travel time, we will also troll. When we get back to the dock, we will unload fish and your belongings. Your mates will hang up your fish and this is the time for you to take pictures of your catch! After pictures, the mates will clean and bag your fish for you to take home and enjoy. Beyond an outstanding Captain at its helm, this vessel also comes loaded with all the fishing gear you could possibly need for a successful day out on the water. So all you need to bring is your sun protection, snacks, drinks, and a tip for the mates, and Captain Matthew and his crew will take care of the rest to ensure you have the best experience out on the water. Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Destin

Destin Deep Dive: 8-10 Hour

NEW
48 ft 1 - 6 People From $2,800
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
trip description for Destin Red Snapper Adventure in Destin

Get out there and experience the fun of family fishing in The World's Luckiest Fishing Village with Captain Cliff! He's been fishing here for over 35 years, and is an expert when it comes to putting you on the fish. On this trip, we will head out into federal waters in search for some epic Red Snapper! You'll be enjoying the breeze aboard Captain Cliff's 48' Pacemaker sportfisher. She's a beautiful vessel, and features an air-conditioned cabin, microwave, bed, and restrooms, so your trip will be as comfy as it is exciting! She's also powered by two Cummins engines to get you out there in a hurry. Captain Cliff will supply everything you need for a great trip, including rods, reels, and tackle. Live bait is also available for a small additional cost. All you need to remember is proper clothing, sun protection, some drinks and snacks, and a cooler for your keepers! Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Destin

Destin Red Snapper Adventure

NEW
48 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,950
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
trip description for Destin Deep Sea Adventure in Destin

Get out there and experience the fun of family fishing in The World's Luckiest Fishing Village with Captain Cliff! He's been fishing here for over 35 years, and is an expert when it comes to putting you on the fish. On this trip, you'll target a variety of classic Florida reef species, including White, Black, and Vermilion Snapper, Almaco Jack, Red Snapper and Triggerfish (in season), and more! We also troll for a variety of schooling fish such as Mackerel and Bonito. These species are a blast to catch, and great to eat as well. Whether you're looking to fill your cooler, catch a personal best, or both, this trip has something for everyone. Captain Cliff is also great at teaching novices how to get hooked up for the first time, so there's no experience required on this adventure. We can troll or bottom-fish depending on your preference, and length of the trip. Feel free to stay out on deck watching the rods, or relax in the comfortable cabin until a fish is on. You'll be enjoying the breeze aboard Captain Cliff's 48' Pacemaker sportfisher. She's a beautiful vessel, and features an air-conditioned cabin, microwave, bed, and restrooms, so your trip will be as comfy as it is exciting! She's also powered by two Cummins engines to get you out there in a hurry. Captain Cliff will supply everything you need for a great trip, including rods, reels, and tackle. Live bait is also available for a small additional cost. All you need to remember is proper clothing, sun protection, some drinks and snacks, and a cooler for your keepers! Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Destin

Destin Deep Sea Adventure

100% (4)
48 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,350
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
trip description for Destin Trolling & Bottom Fishing in Destin

Head further offshore to explore the Destin's prolific Gulf waters anywhere from 18-20 miles offshore! These 6 hour trips give Captain Kyle more time to implement a couple different techniques to catch different pools of species. Trolling these offshore waters can solicit a Mahi, Wahoo, Mackerel, or even a Tuna bite, while bottom fishing Captain Kyle's favorite reefs and offshore structure opens the door to a plethora of species like Grouper, Snapper, and Big Jacks. This trip is a great experience to catch some fish to bring home or to reel in just for a photo! You'll be fishing aboard captain Kyle's 40-foot Bertram Widebody Classic Sportfish that's powered by twin Cummins turbo desels! She has been customized with underwater fins to improve on an already superior stable ride. For your comfort during your trip, the boat is furnished inside the fully Air-Conditioned salon which includes a bathroom, microwave, DirecTV on the flatscreen television inside and Sirius Satellite Radio which can be enjoyed inside and out. She is also customized with a tower, downrigger, outriggers, and a large live well. For the nighttime hours, she has above water illumination as well as powerful underwater lights. No expense has been spared with a full array of state-of-the-art electronics, and top-notch fishing tackle. Captain Kyle and his crew will provide all the rods, reels, and tackle. All you need to bring is any food or drinks you might want. Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Destin

Destin Trolling & Bottom Fishing

100% (4)
40 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,920
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
trip description for Offshore Sea Monsters in Destin

Come aboard Captain Matthew's sportfisher for an action-packed close offshore adventure! After launching from the dock, you will ride out of Destin Pass and start your fishing trip. On this 12 hour trip, you can travel up to 50 miles offshore. At this distance offshore you can expect to hook into some true sea monsters! While trolling with Captain Matthew, you may have a chance to catch many species, such as King Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel, and Bonitas. These are the more common fish. Other species you might encounter as well are Wahoos, Dolphins, Blackfin Tunas, Barracudas, and Sailfish. During your travel out to deeper water, the mates will be working to make sure you are ready to go when we get to our fishing spot. They will be cutting bait, getting rods ready, and teaching you the basics of fishing school. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a complete novice, Captain Matthew and his crew are very patient and do the best job possible to make sure you are trained up and ready to go. Once you arrive at our fishing destination, Captain Matthew will have you fishing for different species in various ways, depending on what you're after! When we are finished fishing, we will head back home. During this travel time, we will also troll. When we get back to the dock, we will unload fish and your belongings. Your mates will hang up your fish and this is the time for you to take pictures of your catch! After pictures, the mates will clean and bag your fish for you to take home and enjoy. Captain Matthew's vessel also comes loaded with all the fishing gear you could possibly need for a successful day out on the water. So all you need to bring is your sun protection, snacks, drinks, and a tip for the mates, and Captain Matthew and his crew will take care of the rest to ensure you have the best experience out on the water. Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Destin

Offshore Sea Monsters

NEW
48 ft 1 - 6 People From $6,300
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
trip description for Destin Fishing to the Fullest in Destin

Hop on board with Captain Dennis and prepare for an action-packed fishing experience off the Florida Panhandle! The nearshore waters around Destin are a great spot to catch some sought-after fish without going too far from the dock. On this 4 to 6-hour trip, Captain Dennis will take you off the coast of Destin where you can fish the inshore and nearshore waters for Cobia, King Mackerel, Redfish, and more. To target these fish, you'll be using a variety of techniques such as light tackle, heavy tackle, bottom fishing, trolling and jigging. Just let Captain Dennis know which fish you want to catch and he'll get you set up with the best method! You’ll be fishing aboard a 25' Cape Horn center console with two 150 HP Yamaha engines and enough seating to accommodate up to 6 passengers comfortably. This vessel is equipped with GPS, a Fishfinder, and an ice box to store your catches. Captain Dennis will happily clean any keepers for no additional cost! Captain Dennis will provide all rods, reels, tackle and live bait. All you need to bring is sunscreen and any food or drinks you might need. Enjoy your day out on the water with Captain Dennis! Read More

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Destin

Destin Fishing To The Fullest

100% (1)
25 ft 1 - 6 People From $825

Everything to Know About Booking a Fort Walton Beach channel catfish fishing charter

What are the best channel catfish fishing charters in Fort Walton Beach?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 1 channel catfish trip in Fort Walton Beach: Kid's Fishing Adventure guided by Joey.

Our guides in Fort Walton Beach are rated a 4 out of 5 based on 2677 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are licensed, insured, and vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Looking for kid friendly channel catfish guides / fishing lessons in Fort Walton Beach? Check out our beginner and family friendly channel catfish guides in Fort Walton Beach.

What types of channel catfish fishing charters are common in Fort Walton Beach?

Inshore fishing is the most popular for channel catfish in Fort Walton Beach as well as flats fishing.

The most common fishing techniques in Fort Walton Beach are bottom fishing, light tackle fishing, and live bait fishing but sight casting and trolling are popular as well.

How much do Fort Walton Beach channel catfish fishing charters cost?

for channel catfish in Fort Walton Beach prices can range anywhere from about $405 to $565, but the average price for a half day trip for channel catfish in Fort Walton Beach is $485.

What month is best for channel catfish fishing in Fort Walton Beach?

The most popular season for channel catfish fishing in Fort Walton Beach is summer, and most anglers book their trips 11 days in advance.

Do I need a Fort Walton Beach fishing license for channel catfish and what are the bag limits for channel catfish in Fort Walton Beach?

You’re in luck! Our fishing tours in Fort Walton Beach don’t require you to purchase a fishing license – your group is covered by your boat’s captain. See here for more information on bag limits and fishing season regulations in Fort Walton Beach.

What is channel catfish fishing in Fort Walton Beach all about?

Channel catfish are a staple catch for anglers in Fort Walton Beach, providing enjoyable fishing experiences in both freshwater and brackish environments. These whisker-faced fish are abundant in local rivers, lakes, and ponds, offering anglers of all skill levels an opportunity to reel in a catch. Channel catfish are known for their voracious appetites, often feeding on a variety of baits including worms, cut bait, and stink bait, making them accessible targets for anglers using a wide range of fishing techniques.

One effective method for targeting channel catfish in Fort Walton Beach is bottom fishing with bait. Anglers rig up their lines with a sinker to keep the bait near the bottom, where channel catfish are known to forage. Popular bait choices include chicken liver, shrimp, and commercial stink baits, which emit strong scents that attract catfish. Anglers may also opt for natural baits such as nightcrawlers or cut bait, presenting them on hooks designed to securely hold the bait while allowing the fish to take it into their mouths.

Channel catfish can be caught year-round in Fort Walton Beach, but they tend to be more active during warmer months when water temperatures are higher. Spring and summer are particularly productive seasons for channel catfish fishing, as these fish become more active and feed more aggressively. Additionally, channel catfish can be found in deeper waters during the heat of summer, seeking refuge from the warmer surface temperatures. Anglers targeting channel catfish in Fort Walton Beach can enjoy consistent action and the opportunity to reel in trophy-sized fish throughout the year.

What are the most popular months to fish for channel catfish in Fort Walton Beach?

In Fort Walton Beach, channel catfish can be pursued throughout the year, but their activity levels and preferred habitats vary depending on the season. Spring and summer are typically considered prime seasons for channel catfish fishing in Fort Walton Beach. As temperatures rise, channel catfish become more active and move into shallower waters to feed and spawn. Anglers targeting channel catfish during these seasons can expect increased activity and greater success rates, especially in rivers, lakes, and ponds where these fish congregate.

Fall can also be a productive season for channel catfish fishing in Fort Walton Beach, as cooling temperatures prompt these fish to feed voraciously in preparation for the winter months. While they may not be as active as in the warmer months, channel catfish can still be caught using a variety of baits and fishing techniques. Anglers may find success targeting deeper waters or areas with structure and cover, where channel catfish are known to seek refuge from cooling temperatures.

Winter is generally considered a slower season for channel catfish fishing in Fort Walton Beach. As water temperatures drop, channel catfish become less active and may move to deeper waters or seek out warmer environments. However, dedicated anglers can still find opportunities to catch channel catfish during this time by targeting deeper holes, river bends, or areas with underwater structure where these fish may congregate. While winter fishing may require more patience and persistence, it can still yield rewarding catches for anglers willing to brave the colder conditions. Overall, Fort Walton Beach offers year-round opportunities for channel catfish fishing, with each season presenting unique challenges and rewards for anglers.

What techniques are popular for catching channel catfish in Fort Walton Beach?

In Fort Walton Beach, anglers have several effective techniques for targeting channel catfish in the area's freshwater and brackish waters. One popular method is bottom fishing with bait, which involves rigging up a line with a sinker to keep the bait near the bottom, where channel catfish are known to forage. Anglers often use a variety of baits such as chicken liver, shrimp, worms, or commercial stink baits to entice strikes from catfish. These baits emit strong scents that attract catfish, making them effective choices for anglers looking to reel in these whisker-faced fish.

Another successful technique for channel catfish fishing in Fort Walton Beach is drift fishing. Anglers drift along river channels, lakes, or ponds while dragging baited lines behind the boat. This technique allows anglers to cover a large area of water and locate actively feeding catfish. Popular baits for drift fishing include cut bait, shad, or prepared dough baits. Anglers may also use scent attractants or bait additives to enhance the effectiveness of their presentations.

Additionally, anglers can target channel catfish using rod and reel setups paired with casting or flipping techniques. By casting baited hooks near structure, shoreline cover, or areas with underwater vegetation, anglers can effectively target catfish that may be lurking in ambush. This method requires precision casting and careful presentation to entice strikes from catfish hiding in cover. With their versatility and adaptability, these fishing techniques offer anglers in Fort Walton Beach ample opportunities to reel in channel catfish throughout the year.

What other species are popular in Fort Walton Beach?

While channel catfish provide exciting angling opportunities in Fort Walton Beach, there is a diverse range of other species that anglers can target for thrilling fishing adventures. One popular catch among anglers is the largemouth bass, prized for its aggressive strikes and impressive fights. These freshwater predators inhabit local lakes, ponds, and rivers, offering anglers of all skill levels the chance to reel in a trophy-sized bass. Anglers often use a variety of techniques such as casting with artificial lures or fishing with live bait to entice strikes from largemouth bass, providing exhilarating battles and memorable catches.

Another sought-after species in Fort Walton Beach is the redfish, also known as red drum, renowned for its powerful runs and delicious flesh. Redfish can be found in the area's estuaries, flats, and nearshore waters, often prowling shallow flats or oyster beds in search of prey. Anglers frequently target redfish using live or cut bait, as well as artificial lures such as spoons, soft plastics, and topwater plugs. With their thrilling fights and striking coloration, redfish provide anglers with exciting angling opportunities year-round.

In addition to largemouth bass and redfish, Fort Walton Beach offers opportunities to target a variety of other species such as speckled trout, flounder, and sheepshead. These fish can be found in a variety of habitats including bays, rivers, and nearshore waters, providing anglers with diverse fishing experiences. Anglers can utilize a variety of techniques including casting, trolling, and bottom fishing to target these species, ensuring endless opportunities for exciting and rewarding fishing adventures beyond just targeting channel catfish.

Other Hunting Species in Fort Walton Beach

What's biting in Fort Walton Beach?

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