Professional and amateur anglers alike have been coming to South Walton’s sugar-white shores for over a century, because they truly offer some of the best sport fishing in the world.
As home to some of the top sports fishing tournaments in the nation, 30A and South Walton, Florida offer some sweet hot spots to catch big game, whether you’re a rookie or a pro. Here’s your guide for where, when and how to fish in the region:
The Best Spots for Fishing along Hwy 30A:
1. 30A Fishing Charters (Here is 5 Top hot spots to check out)
If you do rent a fishing charter, many include an all-inclusive package, complete with a fishing license, tackle, bait, and a live guide. Beginner’s luck is popular here when it comes to fishing! So, if you’ve never fished a day in your life and are vacationing along 30A, try something new! You never know what you’ll catch.
Fish On Charters
With two 20’ Capehorns, Captain Jim Bishop and his son, Captain Jimbo run charters and are hailed as two of 30A’s hottest fishing guides. Phone: 850-231-1667
Grayton Beach Charters
Captain Scott Provow is a military veteran, retired Navy Carrier Fighter Pilot and retired Delta Air Lines International Captain. He has flown and fished all over the world. Welcome aboard “The Tailhooker!” Phone: 850-855-2534
Dead Fish Charters
Captain Larry Pentel was born and raised here, and he’s been running boats off the beach since he was 12. In addition to local fishing, Pentel is also very familiar with the fish populations and areas at Indian Pass. Phone: 850-685-1092
Fishy Booty Charters
Captain Mark Thompson has been a local for nearly 20 years, teaching both scuba diving and fishing. The Fishy Booty is a great way to explore the Gulf by Grayton Beach. Phone: 850-586-0807
30A Guide Service
Troy and Hunter Forbes are father-son duo who are both native to the area. From putting you within casting distance of a hungry Redfish, putting your child on their first fish, or getting big groups of Redheads to consistently commit to the decoys, these guys make it happen. Phone: 850-687-0572 or 850-699-1695
2. Head to the Lakes
South Walton is also home to more than a dozen fresh and saltwater lakes – 17 to be exact in the Choctawhatchee Bay and the Gulf of Mexico! If you’re fearful of the rough seas, head to calmer pastures by fishing on a lake. Fishing Licenses are available at Seagrove Beach and Watercolor, Florida stores.
3. Head to the Piers
Many fishing excursions in South Walton are referred to as offshore fishing or deep-sea fishing. But this isn’t for everyone. If you can’t swim or have a fear of the wide open seas, there’s no need to rent a boat or yacht to go fishing. You can head to one of the countless piers and simply tackle while you enjoy the view. Fishing Licenses are available at Seagrove Beach and Watercolor, Florida stores.
4. Other Tips
Other non-boat fishing spots include in Eden Gardens State Park or Live Oak Landing. Fishing Licenses are available at Seagrove Beach and Watercolor, Florida stores.
About Fishing Gear
Whether you’ve planned a fishing excursion for days or want to try this new adventure impromptu-style, South Walton is the perfect playground for finding gear and charters on a whim.
Try Yellowfin Ocean Sports for instance, or head to Pier Park, which is home to several outdoor gear shops.
The Florida Panhandle is known for an incredible variety of year-round surf and inshore fishing action. Depending on the time of year, on the beach you will be able to catch Pompano, Redfish, Bluefish, Ladyfish, Jacks, Whiting, Flounder, Spanish Mackerel, even the occasional Cobia and Bonito.
Get out past the second sand bar in a kayak and increase your chances for those Cobia, Spanish and Bonito, then add Kings, Mahi, Blackfin Tuna, Tarpon, and maybe a Sailfish to your list. Successfully trolling for a smoker King Mackerel in a kayak is something that you will not forget!
Two more things to keep in mind:
Fishing is more than just a past time in South Walton – it’s a way of life! Make sure to bring your camera to record that history-making catch!
And don’t forget about the other fantastic activities here in 30A, such as hitting the beautiful beaches, dining at the incredible restaurants, and – of course – Dolphin Tours! Contact us today for more information!
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