Best Fishing Tournaments in Destin, Florida

Weighing in Cobia at the Flathead tournament at Boshamps on Destin Harbor

Destin, Florida is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities in the Gulf of Mexico, making it a popular destination for fishing tournaments. Below are a few of the best fishing tournaments that take place in Destin, Florida.

Destin Fishing Rodeo

This is one of the largest and longest-running fishing tournaments in Destin, held annually during the entire month of October. Anglers can compete in various categories such as offshore, inshore, and junior divisions. Daily weigh-ins take place on the docks in front of AJ’s Seafood and Oyster House on Destin Harbor. The event also includes daily prizes, a grand prize, and a variety of special awards.

Weighing in with Miss Destin at the Fishing Rodeo
Destin Fishing Rodeo

All the fishing boats at Pelican Adventures are registered in the fishing rodeo, which means you will have a chance to weigh-in at the rodeo if you catch a qualifying fish while fishing with us!

For more information about the Destin Fishing Rodeo, read our post here: Destin Fishing Rodeo: Your Guide to all the Fun

Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic

This is a premier offshore fishing tournament held in June each year at the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort in Destin. It attracts top anglers from around the world to compete for cash prizes in categories like blue marlin, dolphin, tuna, and wahoo.

Weigh ins at Baytowne Marina
Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic

The Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic kicks off with a shotgun start at the Destin east jetties and finishes at the Baytowne Marina Weigh-Ins a few days later.

Cobia Fishing Tournaments

Cobia are a popular saltwater gamefish, in the waters off the coast of Destin, Florida. Destin is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, and Cobia is one of the prized catches for anglers in the area.

Cobia are large and powerful fish known for their strength and fighting ability, making them a challenging and exciting target for fishermen. They are often found in nearshore and offshore waters, especially during their seasonal migrations.

Weighing in Cobia at the Flathead Fishing Tournement at Boshamps on Destin Harbor
Cobia Fishing Tournament at Boshamps in Destin

The Cobia tournaments in Destin take place in March and April each year at various spots around Destin Harbor including Boshamps, Harbor Docks, Harborwalk Marina, and Boathouse Oyster Bar. Anglers compete for prizes based on the weight of their Cobia catch and can participate in both offshore and inshore divisions.


These are just a few examples of the fishing tournaments that take place in Destin, Florida. We hope you will join us at Pelican Adventures for your own fishing adventure while you are in town for a vacation of a fishing tournament!

Catching Fish for the Destin Rodeo Fishing Tournament on the Good Times Boat in Destin

At Pelican Adventures, we have fishing options for every size group and budget including party boat trips, shared charters, and private. Book online on our website or give us a call at 850-650-3825. We hope to see you soon on the water!

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