Emerald Coast Fishing Update - This Week
A colorful mixed catch after a great day of offshore fishing on the Emerald Coast.
September Offshore Fishing Keeps the Coolers Full
September continues to produce some excellent fishing along the Emerald Coast, with plenty of snapper coming back to the dock this week. As the busy summer travel season winds down around Panama City Beach, 30A, and Destin, this can be one of the nicest times of year to get on the Gulf. The fishing is still going strong, the mornings are becoming more comfortable, and there's a little more breathing room on the water.
Inshore Fishing Update
Inshore fishing remains a great option for families, younger anglers, and anyone looking for a shorter trip closer to shore. I don't have a major change to report from the inshore bite this week, but September traditionally gives us plenty of opportunities around the bays and nearshore waters as we gradually transition away from the hottest part of summer.
Species We’re Targeting
Offshore Fishing Update
The pictures from this week's trips tell the story pretty well. We've brought some great mixed catches back to the dock, with snapper making up a big part of the action along with some quality grouper. We've even had some mahi mixed into the catch.
Snapper continue to be the big story offshore. We've been catching plenty of them this week. Grouper have also been mixed into the catch, along with some mahi, giving us some nice variety offshore. Red snapper season remains open through October 4, so there's still time to take advantage of this fall season before it closes.
Species Showing Up
Fresh Catch Recipe Idea
With snapper continuing to come back to the dock, this is another perfect week for my Grilled Red Snapper with Lemon Garlic Butter. Fresh snapper doesn't need much to make a great meal, and a simple preparation lets the flavor of the fish do most of the work.
Captain's Tip
“September is a great example of why I don't like getting too locked into one species before leaving the dock. Conditions change, fish move, and sometimes the best trip comes from taking advantage of whatever opportunity the Gulf gives us that day. That's one of the reasons I always recommend talking with me about what you're hoping to catch and letting the conditions help determine the plan.”
The outlook for the coming week looks encouraging, too, with some calmer Gulf conditions expected early in the week. As always, I'll watch the conditions each day and adjust accordingly.
If you've been thinking about squeezing in a fishing trip before fall really settles in, the next couple of weeks are a great opportunity. Summer crowds have thinned, the snapper bite is strong, and I still have some openings on the calendar. Whether you're looking for an Inshore Fishing Charter, Offshore Fishing Charter, Family Fishing Charter, or Captain's Choice Charter, I'll build the trip around your group and current conditions.
September isn't finished yet, and neither is the fishing.
— Captain Steve