Emerald Coast Fishing Update - This Week
A couple of young anglers celebrating a great day on the water and a table full of fresh mahi-mahi.
Mahi Lead the Way as August Fishing Stays Hot
Whether you're visiting Panama City Beach, 30A, or Destin, August continues to offer outstanding fishing opportunities along Florida's Emerald Coast. I've been fortunate to stay busy on the water, and this past week was highlighted by some excellent mahi action along with steady catches of triggerfish and snapper. As always, I'll continue watching the daily weather, but this week's forecast looks much more like the typical summer pattern we expect this time of year.
Inshore Fishing Update
While most of my trips have been offshore recently, inshore fishing continues to provide opportunities for anglers looking to stay closer to shore. Redfish remain a favorite target around the bays and grass flats, and I'll continue watching how the bite develops as we move through August. Shorter inshore trips are also a great option for families looking to beat the summer heat while still enjoying time on the water.
Species Being Caught:
Offshore Fishing Update
Offshore fishing has been outstanding this past week. Mahi have been the clear highlight, providing exciting action along with excellent table fare. Triggerfish and vermilion snapper have continued producing consistently, and we've also caught a few red snapper before the July season closed. Since the recent storm, we've even started seeing some gag grouper, giving us another exciting species to watch as we head toward fall.
With Florida's July red snapper season now behind us, I'm already looking forward to the September reopening, when red snapper will return alongside amberjack and gag grouper opportunities. Until then, there's still plenty of great offshore fishing to enjoy.
Species Being Caught:
Fresh Catch Recipe Idea
If you're lucky enough to bring home fresh mahi this week, my Mahi Mahi Fish Taco recipe is one of my favorites. It's light, fresh, and lets the flavor of Gulf-caught mahi take center stage—perfect after a summer day on the water.
Captain's Tip
“August can be one of the hottest months on the Gulf, which is why I've been focusing on four- and five-hour trips during the peak of the summer. Those shorter trips are often the perfect balance of comfortable conditions, great fishing, and plenty of time to bring home fish for dinner. I'll always recommend the trip that gives my guests the best overall experience.”
If you're planning a fishing trip from Panama City Beach, 30A, or Destin, now is a great time to get on the calendar. My Inshore Fishing Charters offer a fun option for families and anglers wanting to stay closer to shore, while my Offshore Fishing Charters continue producing mahi, triggerfish, vermilion snapper, and other Gulf favorites. If you're unsure which trip fits your group best, my Captain's Choice Charter lets me recommend the right adventure based on the latest conditions, and my Family Fishing Charters are always designed to create memories that last long after the trip is over.
I look forward to fishing with you soon.
— Captain Steve