Badlands Charters invites you to experience the best of Destin, Florida — the “Luckiest Fishing Village in the World.” Step aboard with Captain Ryan Reed and discover why anglers and families return year after year to explore the emerald waters of the Gulf Coast. Whether you’re chasing trophy fish offshore or cruising with dolphins along the sugar-white beaches, every trip with Badlands Charters is a custom-tailored adventure built around you. Captain Ryan has spent more than 25 years fishing the northern Gulf and knows every stretch of reef, wreck, and nearshore hotspot. Depending on the season, you might target Red Snapper, Grouper, Amberjack, King Mackerel, Cobia, and even Wahoo or Mahi Mahi offshore. Each trip is flexible — from half-day inshore and nearshore charters to full-day deep-sea excursions in the open Gulf. Using a mix of bottom fishing, trolling, and jigging, you’ll have every chance to land something worth bragging about. Your ride for the day is a 32’ Sea Craft center console designed for comfort and performance. With room for up to six guests, this boat comes equipped with a private toilet, ice box, modern electronics, and top-quality fishing gear. All rods, reels, tackle, and fishing licenses are included, so you can relax and focus on the fun. When the trip’s over, Captain Ryan will clean and fillet your catch so you can enjoy the freshest seafood dinner in town. Badlands Charters also offers relaxing dolphin watching tours and scenic sunset cruises — perfect for couples, families, or anyone looking to see the Gulf from a different perspective. Glide across calm waters, spot playful dolphins, and take in breathtaking coastal views as the sun sinks over Destin Harbor. Captain Ryan’s dedication to his guests comes from a lifetime of service. A proud U.S. Army veteran and 101st Airborne member, he brings the same focus, discipline, and care to his charters that he did to his years in uniform. His goal is simple — to make sure every guest leaves with unforgettable memories, whether it’s a child reeling in their first fish or an angler landing their personal best. From affordable nearshore trips to all-day deep-sea adventures, Badlands Charters delivers Destin fishing the way it should be — personal, professional, and packed with fun. Book your trip today and see why Captain Ryan Reed and Badlands Charters are among the top-rated fishing and dolphin tour experiences in the Florida Panhandle.

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Best Spots

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A fisherman with a big catch at an unknown location

Four anglers with a small fish during a fishing trip

Captain

King Mackerel caught during fishing in Destin

Longfin Yellowtail fish caught in Florida

Group of 6 people enjoying fishing in Destin

Spanish Mackerel caught while fishing in Destin

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!

Experience the best of Destin, FL fishing with a local captain who knows these Gulf waters inside and out. Our family-friendly fishing charters welcome anglers of all ages, offering safe, fun, and action-filled trips perfect for beginners and seasoned pros alike. Target local favorites like Red Snapper, Grouper, King Mackerel, and Triggerfish while learning expert techniques from a captain with years of experience fishing the Emerald Coast. Every trip is designed to make lasting memories—whether you’re chasing your first big catch or filling the cooler for dinner. The boat is fully equipped with everything you need for a comfortable and successful day on the water. Enjoy calm seas, great company, and exciting catches with one of the top-rated Destin fishing charters. Book your trip today and experience why families return year after year to fish with a true local pro.

Captain Ryan Reed, a proud native of Florida’s Gulf Coast, grew up exploring the lakes, rivers, and bays that surround Destin, FL. His lifelong love for fishing began as a young boy casting lines from the shore and evolved into a full-blown passion for guiding others to their own unforgettable catches. After serving eight honorable years in the U.S. Army—including deployments to Kosovo, Afghanistan, and Iraq—Ryan returned home to pursue what he loved most: being on the water. His natural leadership, discipline, and enthusiasm now shine through every charter he runs with Badlands Charters. With more than 25 years of experience fishing the Gulf of Mexico, Captain Ryan is one of the most knowledgeable Destin fishing guides you’ll find. He holds all required U.S. Coast Guard certifications and prioritizes safety, comfort, and a great time for guests of all ages. Whether you’re joining a half-day inshore trip or heading offshore for a full-day deep sea adventure, Ryan’s local expertise ensures you’ll be fishing in all the right spots at the best times of year. His friendly, easygoing approach makes every charter both fun and professional, ideal for families, beginners, and experienced anglers alike. Beyond fishing, Captain Ryan is active in the Destin community and passionate about preserving the Gulf’s natural resources. He often shares conservation tips and responsible fishing practices with his guests, helping ensure these waters remain rich for generations to come. His commitment to both the environment and his customers has earned Badlands Charters a reputation as one of the most trusted family-friendly fishing charters in Destin, Florida. Guests fish aboard a comfortable 32’ Sea Craft center console, equipped with advanced GPS, sonar, and all the latest fishing gear. The boat features cushioned seating, a private toilet, live wells, and plenty of space for up to six passengers. It’s the perfect blend of performance and comfort—fast enough to reach offshore hotspots yet stable for smooth, enjoyable rides. When you fish with Captain Ryan Reed and Badlands Charters, you’re not just booking a trip—you’re joining a true Destin local for an authentic Gulf Coast experience.

Deep Sea Fun

Expert-Guided Destin Deep Sea Fishing Charter

Gulf Quest

Premier Destin Offshore Fishing with Badlands

Full Day Catch

World-Class Offshore Fishing in Destin's Gulf

Dolphin Spotter

Top-Rated Destin Dolphin Watching Tour

Sunset Sails

Destin Sunset Cruise: Gulf Views with Badlands

Destin Florida

Best Time of Year for Fishing in Destin Florida

Things To Do

Things To Do in Florida

Fishing License

Florida Fishing License

<h3>Common Questions:</h3><h3>How much does a full-day fishing charter cost in Destin, FL?</h3>A full-day fishing charter with Badlands Charters in Destin, FL typically costs around $1,400 for up to 6 guests. This 8-hour trip takes you up to 20 miles offshore to target Red Snapper, Grouper, Wahoo, and more. Prices include all gear, bait, and licenses. <h3>What’s included in a Badlands Charters fishing trip in Destin, FL?</h3>Every trip with Badlands Charters includes all fishing gear, bait, tackle, and your fishing licenses. The captain also cleans and fillets your catch at the dock so you can take it home or enjoy it at a local restaurant. <h3>Do I need to bring my own fishing gear?</h3>No need—everything you need for a great day on the water is included. Badlands Charters provides high-quality rods, reels, and tackle, so you can just bring your sunscreen, drinks, snacks, and a small cooler for your cleaned fish. <h3>What species can I catch with Badlands Charters in Destin, FL?</h3>Depending on the season, you can catch Red Snapper, Vermilion Snapper, Triggerfish, King Mackerel, Grouper, Wahoo, and Cobia. The Gulf waters off Destin are famous for variety and big catches all year round. <h3>What is the best time of year to fish in Destin, FL?</h3>Fishing in Destin is productive year-round, but peak months for Red Snapper and Grouper run from May through August. Fall brings strong King Mackerel and Triggerfish action, while winter is great for bottom fishing nearshore. <h3>How many people can join a Badlands Charters fishing trip?</h3>Each trip accommodates up to 6 guests, making it perfect for families, couples, or small groups of friends. Kids are welcome, and the captain is great at helping first-timers learn the ropes. <h3>Are dolphin and sunset cruises also available?</h3>Yes! Badlands Charters offers Dolphin Watching Tours and Sunset Cruises in addition to fishing trips. These private charters are great for families and couples who want to relax and enjoy the beautiful Gulf scenery. <h3>Is fish cleaning and filleting included?</h3>Absolutely. At the end of every Badlands Charters trip, Captain Ryan Reed will clean and fillet your catch at no extra charge. You can take it to one of Destin’s local “cook your catch” restaurants for a fresh meal. <h3>What should I bring on my Destin fishing charter?</h3>Bring sunscreen, a hat, polarized sunglasses, drinks, and snacks. A small cooler is recommended for taking home your cleaned fish. Everything else—from rods and reels to licenses—is provided. <h3>How do I book a fishing trip with Badlands Charters in Destin, FL?</h3>You can easily book your trip online or by phone. Choose from half-day, 3/4-day, or full-day fishing charters, or enjoy a dolphin or sunset tour. Spots fill fast, so book your trip today to secure your preferred date and time!

Fishing and dolphin tours in Destin, Florida.

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