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World-Class Offshore Fishing in Destin's Gulf

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

Summary

Get ready for a full day of serious offshore fishing in the Gulf of Mexico with Captain Ryan Reed. You'll head out up to 20 miles from Destin aboard a comfortable 32' Sea Craft, perfect for groups of up to 6 anglers. Over 8 hours, you'll have plenty of time to explore deeper waters and target a variety of big game fish. Expect to go after Red Snapper, Vermilion Snapper, Triggerfish, King Mackerel, Wahoo, Grouper, and even Shark. The captain provides all the gear, tackle, and licenses you'll need, so just bring your enthusiasm and maybe some snacks. After a day of battling fish in the open Gulf, Captain Ryan will clean and fillet your catch, letting you head home with some fresh fish and great memories. It's an ideal trip for anglers looking to spend a full day chasing the biggest fish Destin's waters have to offer.
World-Class Offshore Fishing in Destin's Gulf

Gulf's Biggest 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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Full Day Offshore Fishing: Destin's Deep Sea Adventure

Ready to leave the shoreline behind and chase some serious fish? Captain Ryan Reed's full-day offshore trip is your ticket to Destin's deep-sea action. We're talking 8 solid hours of fishing up to 20 miles out in the Gulf of Mexico, where the big boys play. Whether you're after a cooler full of tasty snappers or the fight of your life with a shark, this trip delivers the goods.

What to Expect on the Water

Hop aboard our 32' Sea Craft, a boat built for comfort and fishing prowess. We'll cruise out past the sight of land, where the water turns that deep, gorgeous blue. With room for up to 6 anglers, there's plenty of space to spread out and wet a line. Don't sweat the gear - we've got top-notch rods, reels, and tackle all ready to go. Plus, your fishing license is covered. Just bring your game face and maybe a cooler for drinks. Oh, and a camera - you'll want proof when you're telling fish tales later.

Fishing Techniques & Hotspots

Out here, we mix it up depending on what's biting. We might start by dropping lines for bottom-dwellers like snapper and grouper. Keep an eye on that rod tip - when it starts bouncing, you're in for a workout hauling up dinner from the depths. As we move around, we'll troll for speedsters like King Mackerel and Wahoo. These fish hit hard and run fast, so hold on tight! And for the thrill-seekers, shark fishing is always an option. Nothing gets the heart pumping like seeing a dorsal fin circling the boat.

Top Catches This Season

Destin's waters are teeming with prize catches year-round. In the warmer months, Red Snapper is king - these tasty red devils put up a great fight and make even better fish tacos. Gag Grouper are the bruisers of the deep, known to take your bait and bee-line straight for their rocky hidey-holes. King Mackerel, or "Kings" as we call 'em, are the speedsters of the Gulf. Hook one of these and get ready for some screaming reels. Grey Triggerfish might not be the biggest, but they're feisty and fantastic eating. And if you're lucky, we might tangle with a Wahoo - these striped torpedoes are some of the fastest fish in the sea and will test your angling skills to the max.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Look, fishing close to shore is fun and all, but there's something special about being out in the deep blue. The anticipation builds with every mile we put between us and the beach. Out here, you never know what might take your bait. Could be a mess of snappers for a fish fry, or it could be the catch of a lifetime. Plus, there's nothing like spending a full day on the water. We've got time to try different spots, switch up techniques, and really get into the rhythm of offshore fishing. And at the end of the day, Captain Ryan will clean and fillet your catch - talk about door-to-door service!

Species You'll Want to Hook

Red Snapper: These crimson beauties are the crown jewels of the Gulf. They love structure and hang out near reefs and wrecks. Red Snapper put up a solid fight, especially when you're yanking them up from 100+ feet down. Best of all, they're absolutely delicious - flaky, sweet, and perfect for just about any fish recipe you can think of. The season's strictly regulated, so when it's open, you better believe we're on 'em.

Gag Grouper: Built like linebackers, these bottom-dwellers are all muscle. They love to hang out in holes and ledges, waiting to ambush prey. When you hook one, be ready for a battle - they'll try to dive back into their rocky homes and break you off. Gags can grow over 50 pounds, and the bigger ones are known as "barn doors" for good reason. They're a blast to catch and make for some mighty fine eating.

King Mackerel: Speed demons of the Gulf, Kings will test your drag and your arms. These silver missiles can top 50 mph when they're on the run. We usually troll for them, and when one hits, hold on tight! They make blistering runs and often go airborne in spectacular leaps. Kings are seasonal visitors, with the biggest showing up in the fall. If you want pure excitement on the end of your line, these are your targets.

Grey Triggerfish: Don't let their small size fool you - these guys punch above their weight class. Triggers have powerful jaws they use to crush crabs and shellfish, so they're not afraid to put up a scrap. They're crafty too, known for stealing bait without getting hooked. When you do connect, it's a fun fight on lighter tackle. Bonus: they're excellent on the grill, with sweet, firm white meat.

Wahoo: The holy grail for many offshore anglers, Wahoo are like supercharged King Mackerel. They're not as common, but when you find them, it's go time. Wahoo can hit speeds over 60 mph and make runs that'll have your reel smoking. They're usually loners or in small groups, so landing one is always a special occasion. And talk about good eating - Wahoo steaks on the grill are hard to beat.

Time to Book Your Spot

If you're itching for a real offshore adventure, this full-day trip is calling your name. We're talking serious fishing time, a comfortable ride, and the chance at some trophy catches. Whether you're a seasoned angler or looking to step up your game, Captain Ryan will put you on the fish. Just remember, spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons. So don't wait - grab your crew (up to 6 total) and lock in your date. The Gulf is waiting, and trust me, there's nothing like that first drop into the deep blue. See you on the water!

Learn more about the species

Gag Grouper

Gag grouper are ambush predators you'll find lurking around reefs and rocky bottoms offshore. They average 20-30 inches but can grow over 50 inches and 80 pounds. These guys love structure, so look for them around shipwrecks, ledges, and artificial reefs in 60-250 foot depths. Fall and winter are prime seasons when they move closer inshore. Anglers prize gags for their hard-fighting nature and excellent white meat. To land one, use heavy tackle with large live baits like mullet or pinfish. Drop your rig right into the structure and be ready - once hooked, they'll try to dive back to their hole. Keep your rod tip up and reel like mad to turn their head. Local tip: stone crab traps often attract gags, so fish nearby if you spot some. Just watch the sharks - they like to follow gags too.

Gag Grouper

Grey Triggerfish

Grey triggerfish are feisty little characters you'll find around reefs and rocky bottoms offshore. They average 1-2 feet long and a few pounds, but can reach 13 pounds. Look for them in 60-300 foot depths, often mixed in with snapper and grouper. Summer is prime season when they're most active. Anglers enjoy targeting triggers for their tenacious fight and tasty white meat. To catch 'em, use small hooks with squid or cut bait. Drop to the bottom and be ready for subtle bites. Once hooked, reel fast - they'll try to duck back into structure. Watch those teeth when unhooking! Local tip: if you're having trouble getting bites, try chumming to get them fired up. Just don't let the bigger fish steal your bait before the triggers get to it.

Grey Triggerfish

King Mackerel

King mackerel are speedsters of the Gulf, clocking in at 30 mph. They average 20-30 pounds but can top 90. Look for them in 40-150 foot depths, often near bait schools. Summer and fall are prime seasons as they migrate along the coast. Anglers love kings for their blistering runs and acrobatic jumps when hooked. To catch one, troll at a good clip with large spoons or live baits like blue runners. Wire leaders are a must to prevent bite-offs from their razor teeth. Kings make decent table fare but have higher mercury levels, so limit consumption. Pro tip: when you see birds diving, there's likely kings feeding below. Motor upwind of the action and drift back with live baits out. Hold on tight - when a king hits, it's like hooking a freight train!

King Mackerel

Red Snapper

Red snapper are prized catches in the Gulf, growing up to 3 feet and 35 pounds. You'll find them hanging around reefs and rocky bottoms in 30-600 foot depths. Prime season is summer, when they move closer to shore. Anglers love 'em for their hard-fighting spirit and excellent table fare. To land a big one, drop your bait all the way to the bottom using heavy weights. Live bait like cigar minnows or squid work great. Watch out for their initial powerful run - they'll try to dive back to structure and cut your line. Keep steady pressure and be ready for a battle. The meat is mild and nutty, perfect for grilling or frying up. Just remember, there are strict regulations on these guys to protect the population, so always check current limits before your trip.

Red Snapper

Wahoo Fish

Wahoo are the speed demons of the Gulf, hitting 60 mph in short bursts. They average 3-5 feet and 15-30 pounds, but can top 8 feet and 180 pounds. Look for them in the open water, often near floating debris or weed lines. Late summer through fall is prime season as they migrate through. Anglers prize wahoo for their smoking runs and delicious meat. To catch one, troll fast at 12-15 knots with lures or rigged ballyhoo. Wire leaders are a must to prevent bite-offs. When a wahoo hits, hang on - their initial run will scream line off your reel. Local tip: keep an eye out for frigate birds. They often follow wahoo feeding on flying fish. Head to where the birds are working and you might just hook into the catch of a lifetime. The fight and the table fare make wahoo well worth the effort.

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 epic day of offshore fishing in Destin aboard Captain Ryan Reed's 32' Sea Craft. This full 8-hour trip takes you up to 20 miles out into the Gulf of Mexico, where the big fish lurk. With room for up to 6 anglers, you'll have plenty of space to reel in Red Snapper, Vermilion Snapper, Triggerfish, King Mackerel, Wahoo, Grouper, and even Shark. The captain provides all the gear, tackle, and licenses you need, so just bring your A-game and be prepared for some serious action. After a day of battling monsters from the deep, Captain Ryan will clean and fillet your catch, letting you take home the freshest fish dinner. Whether you're a seasoned angler or looking to test your skills, this full-day adventure offers the perfect mix of comfort, excitement, and the chance to land some trophy fish.
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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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