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Premier Destin Offshore Fishing with Badlands

  • Published Date: October 30, 2025
  • Fishing
  • Destin, FL
  • $240 - $1,920 price range

Summary

Ready for some serious offshore action? Join Captain Ryan Reed for a 6-hour fishing adventure that takes you up to 20 miles into the Gulf. This trip is perfect for groups of up to 6 who want a longer outing without committing to a full day. You'll be targeting a variety of fish including Red Snapper, Vermilion Snapper, Triggerfish, King Mackerel, Wahoo, Grouper, and even Shark. All the gear you need is provided - rods, reels, tackle, and fishing licenses. Plus, at the end of the day, we'll clean your catch for you. It's a great mix of deep-sea excitement and relaxation, fishing some of the Gulf's most productive spots. Remember, this is a morning trip, so you'll be back with plenty of day left. Just keep in mind that deposits are non-refundable. Get ready for a morning of reeling in some impressive catches!
Premier Destin Offshore Fishing with Badlands

Gulf's Finest Catches

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Gag grouper caught while fishing in FL

Big Grouper catch with Badlands Charters Destin!

Fisherman on the water in FL

Yellowfin Tuna catch offshore with Badlands Charters Destin!

Six people fishing on the shore in FL

Family day success with Triggerfish and Snapper in Destin!

Group of 6 people enjoying fishing in Destin

Loaded deck of Snapper and Tuna with Badlands Charters!

6 people fishing in FL

Epic Red Snapper haul with Badlands Charters Destin!

King Mackerel fishing in FL

Solid King Mackerel and Red Snapper catch in Destin!

King Mackerel caught during fishing in Destin

Nice King Mackerel caught with Badlands Charters Destin!

Two people fishing on the coast of FL

Great Destin day—King Mackerel and Snapper success!

Longfin Yellowtail fish caught in Florida

Amberjack and Red Snapper haul with Badlands Charters!

Two people fishing in Destin

Nice Wahoo catch offshore with Badlands Charters Destin!

Gag grouper caught while fishing in FL

Big Grouper catch with Badlands Charters Destin!

Fisherman on the water in FL

Yellowfin Tuna catch offshore with Badlands Charters Destin!

Six people fishing on the shore in FL

Family day success with Triggerfish and Snapper in Destin!

Group of 6 people enjoying fishing in Destin

Loaded deck of Snapper and Tuna with Badlands Charters!

6 people fishing in FL

Epic Red Snapper haul with Badlands Charters Destin!

King Mackerel fishing in FL

Solid King Mackerel and Red Snapper catch in Destin!

King Mackerel caught during fishing in Destin

Nice King Mackerel caught with Badlands Charters Destin!

Two people fishing on the coast of FL

Great Destin day—King Mackerel and Snapper success!

Longfin Yellowtail fish caught in Florida

Amberjack and Red Snapper haul with Badlands Charters!

Two people fishing in Destin

Nice Wahoo catch offshore with Badlands Charters Destin!

Gag grouper caught while fishing in FL

Big Grouper catch with Badlands Charters Destin!

Fisherman on the water in FL

Yellowfin Tuna catch offshore with Badlands Charters Destin!

Six people fishing on the shore in FL

Family day success with Triggerfish and Snapper in Destin!

Group of 6 people enjoying fishing in Destin

Loaded deck of Snapper and Tuna with Badlands Charters!

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Reel in the Big Ones: Offshore Fishing in Destin

Get ready to chase some serious fish on this 6-hour offshore adventure with Captain Ryan Reed. We'll head up to 20 miles out into the Gulf, where the real monsters lurk. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your sea legs, this trip is perfect for groups looking to land some trophy catches without committing to a full day at sea. We've got room for up to 6 fishermen, so grab your crew and let's hit the water!

What to Expect on the Water

As soon as we leave the Destin harbor, you'll feel the excitement building. The emerald waters of the Gulf stretch out as far as the eye can see, and beneath them swim some of the tastiest fish you'll ever hook. We provide all the gear you need - top-notch rods, reels, and tackle designed to handle whatever the Gulf throws at us. No need to worry about licenses either; we've got you covered. And when we return to the dock, we'll clean your catch so you can start dreaming up recipes for your fresh-caught dinner.

Techniques That Land the Big Ones

Out here, we use a mix of bottom fishing and trolling to target different species. For bottom dwellers like Red Snapper and Grouper, we'll drop lines baited with squid or cut fish. When we're after speedsters like King Mackerel or Wahoo, we'll troll with lures that mimic their favorite baitfish. Captain Ryan knows these waters like the back of his hand, so he'll put us right on top of the best spots. Don't be surprised if we have to battle a few sharks for our catches - it's all part of the offshore experience!

Top Catches This Season

Anglers have been pulling in some real beauties lately. The Red Snapper bite has been on fire, with many folks limiting out quickly. We've also seen some monster Gag Grouper coming over the rails, along with a solid run of King Mackerel. The Triggerfish action has been steady, providing a fun fight for all skill levels. And for those looking for a real adrenaline rush, we've hooked into a few Wahoo that nearly spooled our reels!

Species You'll Want to Hook

Red Snapper: These crimson beauties are the stars of the Gulf. Known for their firm, white flesh and sweet flavor, Red Snapper put up a great fight and make for even better eating. They typically range from 5 to 20 pounds, but we've seen some pushing 30! Best time to target them is during the summer months when the season is open.

Gag Grouper: Built like linebackers, Gag Grouper are ambush predators that love to hang around structure. They'll test your arms and your gear as they try to dive back to their rocky homes. Fall is prime time for these bruisers, with many in the 20-30 pound range. Landing a big Gag is a real accomplishment!

King Mackerel: Also known as Kingfish, these speedsters can burn some serious line when they hit. We often catch them while trolling, and their runs are legendary. Spring and fall are great for Kings, and they can reach sizes of 30-50 pounds. Smoked King Mackerel dip is a local favorite.

Grey Triggerfish: Don't let their small size fool you - Triggerfish punch above their weight class when it comes to fight. These odd-looking fish have powerful jaws designed for crushing shellfish, so hold on tight to your rod! They're available year-round and typically weigh 2-5 pounds. Their sweet, mild meat is fantastic grilled or fried.

Wahoo: The speed demons of the Gulf, Wahoo are prized for both their fight and their flavor. When one of these torpedoes hits your line, hold on tight! They can reach speeds of 60 mph and weights of over 100 pounds. Fall and winter are the best times to target Wahoo, and their firm, white meat is often compared to high-grade tuna.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

There's something special about fishing the waters off Destin. Maybe it's the variety - one minute you're battling a bulldozing Grouper, the next you're chasing surface-feeding Mackerel. Or perhaps it's the quality of the fish - our nutrient-rich waters grow some real giants. But I think what keeps folks coming back is the whole package: the thrill of the hunt, the beauty of the open Gulf, and the satisfaction of bringing home a cooler full of fresh fish. Plus, with Captain Ryan at the helm, you know you're in for a safe, fun, and fish-filled day.

Time to Book Your Spot

If you're itching to bend a rod and feel that offshore excitement, it's time to lock in your trip. Our 6-hour charters are perfect for those who want a serious fishing experience without the all-day commitment. Remember, we provide everything you need - just bring your sense of adventure and maybe a few snacks. Space is limited to 6 anglers, so don't wait too long to reserve your spot. The big ones are out there waiting, and trust me, there's nothing quite like the feeling of a heavy fish on the end of your line in the open Gulf. Let's make some fishing memories you'll be bragging about for years to come!

Learn more about the animals

Gag Grouper

Gag Grouper are hefty, hard-fighting fish that love structure. You'll find them around reefs, rocks, and wrecks in 60-250 foot depths. These ambush predators can reach 50 pounds, though 20-30 pounders are more common. Gags are wary and quick to retreat to their hidey-holes, so precise anchoring is key. Use stout rods, heavy line, and circle hooks with live bait like pinfish or mullet. Drop straight down and be ready - when a Gag hits, it's all muscle. They're notorious for diving back into the rocks, so you've got to turn their head fast. The fight and delicious white meat make Gags a favorite target. For best results, fish them in cooler months when they move to shallower waters. Pro tip: Use a dehooking device to safely release undersized fish at depth.

Gag Grouper

Grey Triggerfish

Grey Triggerfish are odd-looking but tasty reef dwellers you'll find in 60-300 foot depths. They top out around 12 pounds, with 2-5 pounders being more common. These wary fish have small mouths but powerful jaws that can crunch through sea urchins and crabs. You'll need small, sharp hooks and bits of squid or cut bait to tempt them. Triggers are notorious bait stealers, so a sensitive rod tip is key to detecting their light bites. Once hooked, they use their dorsal spines to lock into structure, making for a surprisingly tough fight. The sweet, white meat is a chef's favorite. For best results, fish them in summer and fall when they move to shallower reefs. Pro tip: When you feel that telltale tap-tap-tap, wait a second before setting the hook to let them fully take the bait.

Grey Triggerfish

King Mackerel

Kings are the speed demons of the Gulf, capable of 60 mph bursts. These sleek, toothy predators typically run 10-20 pounds but can top 50. Look for them in open water from the surface down to about 150 feet. Kings love to chase bait schools, so watch for diving birds. Spring and fall are prime seasons as they migrate. Trolling is the go-to method - use wire leaders to prevent bite-offs. Spoons, plugs, and live bait all work well. When a King hits, get ready for smoking runs and acrobatic leaps. Their fight is legendary among anglers. While not the best eating, Kings make great smoked fish dip. Local trick: Slow-troll a live blue runner or cigar minnow on a downrigger to tempt the big ones.

King Mackerel

Red Snapper

Red Snapper are prized catches in the Gulf, known for their bright red color and tasty white meat. These bottom-dwellers typically weigh 5-10 pounds but can grow up to 35 pounds. You'll find them around reefs, wrecks, and rocky bottoms in 30-600 foot depths. May through October is prime Red Snapper season when they gather to spawn. Anglers love targeting them for their strong fight and excellent table fare. To land a big one, use heavy tackle with live bait like cigar minnows or squid. Drop your line all the way to the bottom, then reel up a few cranks. When you feel that telltale thump, set the hook hard and get ready for a battle - these fish will try to dive back to their structure, so keep steady pressure as you reel.

Red Snapper

Wahoo Fish

Wahoo are the rockets of the offshore world, capable of 60 mph bursts that'll make your reel scream. These sleek, striped predators average 15-30 pounds but can top 100. Look for them in open water from the surface down to about 350 feet, often near drop-offs or floating debris. Late summer through fall is prime Wahoo time in our area. High-speed trolling is the ticket - we're talking 12-15 knots with big, noisy lures. When a Wahoo hits, hang on tight. Their initial run is blistering fast, and they'll often go airborne. The fight and top-notch eating quality make them a bucket list fish for many anglers. Local secret: Try trolling at dawn or dusk near the edges of oil rigs for your best shot at a trophy.

Wahoo Fish

About the Badlands Charters

Company vehicle

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6

Manufacturer Name: Suzuki

Maximum Cruising Speed: 35

Number of Engines: 2

Horsepower per Engine: 300

Get ready for an offshore adventure in Destin with Captain Ryan Reed! This 6-hour trip takes you up to 20 miles into the Gulf, where you'll target a variety of game fish including Red Snapper, Vermilion Snapper, Triggerfish, King Mackerel, Wahoo, Grouper, and even Shark. Perfect for groups of up to 6 anglers, this charter offers a great balance of deep-sea action and relaxation. All the gear you need is provided - rods, reels, tackle, and fishing licenses. After a morning of reeling in your catch, the crew will clean your fish so you can take home the freshest fillets. Whether you're an experienced angler or trying offshore fishing for the first time, this trip delivers excitement and the chance to land some impressive Gulf species. Book your spot for a day of fishing Destin's productive offshore waters!
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Book your Destin fishing adventure with Badlands Charters today and experience why we’re a top-rated local favorite for family-friendly deep sea trips. Join Captain Ryan Reed for an unforgettable day on the Gulf—reserve your charter boat now!

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