Premier Destin Charter Fishing | Good Thing Charters

Reel in the Action: Half-Day Fishing in Destin

Ready to wet a line and catch some of Destin's finest? Our half-day trip is perfect for anglers looking to squeeze in some quality fishing without spending all day on the water. We'll head out at the crack of dawn, snag some live bait, and hit the nearby reefs where the fish are biting. Whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time holding a rod, Captain Trevor's got you covered. With room for up to 8 folks, it's a great way to get the whole crew involved in some Gulf Coast action.

What to Expect on the Water

We kick things off bright and early at 5:30 AM – trust me, the early bird gets the worm (or in this case, the fish). Our first stop is to load up on live bait, which is key to enticing those bigger fish. Then we'll cruise out to some prime fishing spots just off the Emerald Coast. We focus on bottom-fishing techniques, dropping lines down to where the big boys hang out. You might hook into some hard-fighting Crevalle Jack or lightning-fast King Mackerel. The beauty of this trip is its flexibility – it's perfect for families wanting to introduce the kids to fishing, beginners looking to learn the ropes, or experienced anglers who want to pack a punch into a shorter outing.

Rigging Up for Success

On this trip, we're all about bottom-fishing. We'll set you up with sturdy rods and reels, typically using circle hooks to increase our catch rate and make it easier on the fish we release. Live bait is our go-to, but we might switch it up with some artificial lures if the bite is tough. Captain Trevor will show you the ropes – how to feel for bites, set the hook, and reel in your catch like a pro. The reefs we fish are teeming with life, so be ready for some arm-burning action when a big one takes your bait!

Customer Stories

"Trevor was very knowledgeable and kept us going and on fish the whole time. Very nice boat for a small group. Trevor is a cool dude and great captain! Highly recommend!" - Bill

"Capt. Trevor seemed to know the waters very well. The 1st place we went to I hooked into one almost as soon as my line hit the water. Every place he took us to we caught fish. No need to keep looking for a boat. Book with him now." - Scott

"Capt Trevor Carr gave us an incredible day on the water! He knew exactly where to go and put us on some great fish—we were reeling them in left and right. His experience and energy made the whole trip enjoyable, and you can tell he genuinely loves what he does. For a solid day out on the gulf Capt Trevor is your guy. Highly recommend booking with him!" - FishingBooker

Species You'll Want to Hook

Tarpon: Known as the "Silver King," tarpon are the ultimate game fish. These prehistoric-looking beasts can grow over 6 feet long and put up a fight that'll test your skills and your biceps. They're famous for their acrobatic leaps and gill-rattling head shakes. While they're catch-and-release only, the thrill of battling a tarpon is something you'll never forget. Best time to target them is late spring through summer when they're cruising our waters.

King Mackerel: Also called "kingfish," these speedsters are a blast to catch. They're known for their blistering runs and can hit speeds up to 60 mph. Kings typically range from 10 to 30 pounds, but bigger ones aren't uncommon. We often find them near the surface, and when they hit, hold on tight! They're great eating too, so if you're looking for some fresh fish for dinner, kings are a top pick. They're around most of the year but really fire up in the warmer months.

Mahi Mahi: These colorful fish, also known as dorado or dolphinfish, are a favorite among anglers and chefs alike. They're absolutely stunning when first pulled from the water, flashing brilliant blues, greens, and yellows. Mahi are known for their acrobatics and their delicious, mild-flavored meat. They typically range from 15 to 30 pounds in our waters. We usually target them in the warmer months, often finding them near floating debris or weed lines.

Greater Amberjack: Locally known as "reef donkeys," these powerful fish are the bulldogs of the sea. They live near reefs and wrecks and put up one heck of a fight. Amberjack can grow over 100 pounds, and even the smaller ones will give you a workout. They're famous for their strong initial run towards the bottom – many a fisherman has been caught off guard by their power. We catch them year-round, but they're especially active in the spring and fall.

Crevalle Jack: These hard-fighting fish are pure muscle. They might not be the prettiest fish in the sea, but what they lack in looks, they make up for in attitude. Crevalle jacks often hunt in schools, so when you find them, the action can be non-stop. They typically range from 5 to 15 pounds, but bigger ones aren't uncommon. Jacks will test your stamina with long, powerful runs. While they're not known for their table fare, they're a blast to catch and release. We find them year-round, but they're especially active in the warmer months.

Time to Book Your Spot

Look, if you're itching to get out on the water and experience some of the best fishing Destin has to offer, this half-day trip is your ticket. It's the perfect blend of action-packed fishing and time efficiency. Captain Trevor knows these waters like the back of his hand and is committed to putting you on the fish. Whether you're looking to introduce the kids to fishing, want to learn some new techniques, or just want to feel the thrill of a big catch, we've got you covered. The boat's ready, the fish are biting, and we're just waiting on you. So what do you say? Let's make some fishing memories!