If you’ve ever visited Destin in October, you’ve probably heard the excitement buzzing around the Destin Fishing Rodeo; a month-long celebration that transforms our harbor into one of the most thrilling fishing destinations in the world.
At Pelican Adventures, we’re proud to be part of the action each year, helping anglers of all experience levels get out on the water to reel in their biggest catch (and maybe even win a prize or two).
Here’s your insider’s guide to everything you need to know about the Destin Fishing Rodeo, and how you can join in the fun this October.
🏆 What Is the Destin Fishing Rodeo?
The Destin Fishing Rodeo is a time-honored tradition that’s been held every October since 1948, making it one of the longest-running fishing tournaments in the country.
Open to anglers of all ages and skill levels, the Rodeo celebrates the deep fishing heritage that earned Destin its nickname: “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village.”
Throughout the month, participating boats bring their daily catches to the weigh-in station on the Destin Harbor, where the excitement unfolds; cheering crowds, flashing cameras, and the chance for anglers to take home trophies, cash prizes, and serious bragging rights.
📅 When and Where Does It Happen?
The Rodeo runs October 1–31, with daily weigh-ins from 10 AM to 7 PM at AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar on the Destin Harbor.
Weigh-ins are free and open to the public, and they’re one of the most entertaining ways to experience the energy of the harbor. Families, friends, and visitors gather to watch the scales tip and hear the stories behind every big catch.
If you’re not fishing, you can still join the celebration with live music, food, drinks, and family-friendly events all month long.
🎣 How to Participate
Want to fish in the Rodeo? It’s easier than you might think!
✅ Book a charter boat that’s officially registered for the Rodeo — like those at Pelican Adventures.
✅ Every angler aboard a registered boat is automatically entered, so there’s no individual entry fee.
✅ Simply enjoy your fishing trip, bring your catch to the weigh-in dock, and see if you’ve landed yourself on the leaderboard!
Pelican Adventures’ captains and crew handle all the details — from bait and tackle to cleaning your fish after the weigh-in — so you can focus on the thrill of reeling in a winner.
🐟 What’s Biting During the Rodeo
October fishing in Destin is world-class, with a mix of inshore and offshore species to target. Depending on your charter and where you fish, you might catch:
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King mackerel
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Mahi-mahi (dolphin fish)
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Blackfin tuna
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Amberjack
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Grouper and snapper
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Redfish and speckled trout (for inshore anglers)
This variety makes October one of the most exciting times to be on the water — every trip has the potential for a personal best (or even a record breaker!).
⚓️ Why Fish the Rodeo with Pelican Adventures
As one of Destin’s longest-running and most trusted charter companies, Pelican Adventures offers both private and shared fishing charters, all led by experienced captains who know exactly where the fish are biting.
Here’s why locals and visitors alike choose us during Rodeo season:
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Rodeo-registered boats ready for daily trips
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Friendly, professional crews who love helping guests get their name on the leaderboard
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Convenient location on the Destin Harbor with easy access to weigh-ins
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Flexible trip options — from half-day family charters to full-day offshore adventures
Whether you’re a serious angler or just want to experience the excitement of the Rodeo, we’ll make sure your day on the water is unforgettable.
🌅 The Energy of October in Destin
Even if you don’t plan to fish, October is one of the best times of year to visit Destin. The weather is mild, the crowds are smaller, and the harbor is buzzing with live music, fireworks, and fishing stories that last a lifetime.
Come down to the docks, cheer on the anglers, and experience a Destin tradition that perfectly captures the spirit of our coastal community.
📞 Ready to Join the Rodeo?
If you’ve ever wanted to experience the thrill of competitive fishing — or just catch your first big fish in the Gulf — October is the time to do it.
👉 Book your Destin Fishing Rodeo charter with Pelican Adventures today and make your mark in “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village.”