Are you thinking about a deep sea fishing trip while visiting Destin, Florida? Deep sea fishing is a fun activity the whole family will enjoy. There’s no better feeling then spending a day on the water catching fresh fish from the Gulf of Mexico that you can enjoy later for dinner!
Deep Sea Fishing in the Gulf of Mexico is Destin, Florida’s most popular adventure. That’s why it’s called the World’s Luckiest Fishing Village!
If you’re considering a deep sea fishing adventure in Destin or you have some more practical questions before booking, this post of frequently asked questions will cover everything you need to know about fishing with us here at Pelican Adventures.
What Kind of Fish will I Catch in Destin?
You will have the opportunity to catch many varieties of fish including Amberjack, Grouper, Triggerfish, Red Snapper, and a variety of other Snapper. Which fish you can keep depends on the time of year and what is in season.
How many People are on the Boat?
We have a few different options for fishing charters and the number of people on the boat depends which one you choose.
Party Boat Fishing
Party Boat Fishing (aka walk-on) will be the largest boat with the most people onboard since this is our most economical option. Our party boat can accommodate up to 65 anglers. This trip is an excellent introduction to fishing our beautiful Gulf of Mexico.
Shared Fishing Charter
Shared fishing charters will have between 8-25 passengers on the boat. This is the perfect fishing trip at a great value if you want an option in-between the party boat with 65 people and the private charter.
Private Fishing Charter
Private charters are available on several of our fishing boats to accommodate any size group large or small.
What is the Cost of Deep Sea Fishing?
Party Boat trips are $79 to $89 per person for a 6-7 hour fishing trip.
Shared Fishing Charters are $135-$149 per person for a 6-hour trip.
Private fishing charters vary in cost depending on the size of your group and how long the trip is. Contact us for a quote for your party.
All fishing trips include your fishing license, rod and reel, bait, and cleaning and bagging your fish afterwards.
*Fishing time includes the travel time to and from your fishing spot
Do I Keep all the Fish I Catch?
Every person or group will have their own numbered cooler where you will put any fish you catch that are in season. At the end of the charter, you will keep everything in your cooler which our crew will clean and bag for you to take.
Where can I have my Fish Cooked?
If you are staying in a hotel without a kitchen or simply don’t want to cook on vacation, there are many local restaurants who will cook your catch for you. One of the best is Harbor Docks which is conveniently located right next to us!
For a longer list of options around Destin Harbor and other tips on getting your fresh catch cooked, read our blog post here: 8 BEST PLACES TO COOK YOUR CATCH ON DESTIN HARBOR
Which Boat will I be Fishing on?
Party Boat Fishing trips will always be on our Vera Marie boat.
Shared Fishing Charters take place on either the Vera Marie or the Good Times Boat, depending on the size of the group.
Private fishing charters will be on either the Vera Marie boat, the Good Times boat, or our newest Deep Obsession boat depending on the group size and the type of trip booked.
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ABOUT OUR BOATS
Can I go on the Trip with my Family if I am not Fishing?
We allow spectators on the fishing boats at a slightly discounted rate when space permits. Please inquire when booking.
What is the Minimum Age for Children to Fish?
Children must be 6 years old to participate in a fishing excursion with us.
What Should I Wear on my Fishing Trip
Wear something comfortable and appropriate for the weather conditions while also considering that temperatures out on the water and on a boat can vary from on land. 
Also many fishing trips will start early in the morning when it might be chilly and end in the hot afternoon sun. For this reason it’s best to dress in layers so you have plenty of options.
What Should I Bring on my Fishing Trip?
We suggest bringing a 6-pack cooler with food, drinks (including plenty of water), a hand towel, sunscreen, and sunglasses. Alcoholic beverages are allowed but please no glass. First timers may want to take some non-drowsy motion sickness medication.
Bananas are considered bad luck on a fishing boat so please leave those at home!
What if the Weather is Bad?
The captain reviews the weather and surf conditions daily leading up to your fishing trip. If he determines that the weather is unsafe or too rough/unpleasant for fishing then he will cancel the trip. In this situation you will be offered a chance to reschedule or a full refund will be provided if your travel plans don’t allow it.
We recommend planning your fishing trip early in your vacation so there is time to reschedule in the unlikely event of weather cancellations.
How much should I tip my Crew?
Deck hands appreciate and rely on tips if you feel they provided you with a good fishing experience. As a general rule, 20 percent of your trip cost is standard but be as generous as you feel, especially if they went above and beyond.
An additional way to thank your crew is by writing a review of your experience and mentioning the names of anyone who made your trip especially enjoyable. There is a QR code onboard to leave a Google review or you can leave reviews on our Facebook page and Trip Advisor as well as Fishing Booker or Tripshock if you booked through them.
What is your Cancellation Policy?
We have a 72 hour cancellation policy. Cancellations made more than 72 hours prior to departure will be refunded minus a 8% processing fee. No refunds will be given for cancellations made within 72 hours of departure for any reason, including missing the boat or no-shows. Be sure to allow plenty of extra time for traffic delays and parking.
We hope you are ready for your Deep Sea Fishing Trip with Pelican Adventures now! If you have any further questions, just call our office and ask! 850-650-3825
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