Outdoorsmen come from all across the United States and around the world to revel in the beautiful terrain and enjoy some time in Florida fishing. No matter the level of expertise, hobbyist, competitor, or tourist hoping to enjoy a relaxing time soaking up the sun on a deep-sea fishing boat, Florida has opportunities to satisfy all these needs and more. Opportunities abound with lakes, rivers, the Gulf and the ocean. Pier fishing, small personal boats, or deep-sea fishing excursions to many types of both salt and freshwater fish to target. Here are just a few of the myriad of possibilities to whet your appetite.
DESTIN
Boasting the nickname the Luckiest Fishing Village in the World, Destin is known also for its beauty including white beaches with a backdrop of emerald-green waters. Aptly named after the New London fishing master Captain Leonard Destin, the village of Destin is located in northwest part of the state and is home to one of Florida states largest fleets of fishing boats. Hosting over four million tourists per year, Destin is no longer just a tiny Florida fishing village. Many tourists consider Destin almost a pilgrimage destination, specifically seeking out its outstanding Florida fishing.
THE KEYS
Made famous by favorite songs written and performed by the Beach Boys and Jimmy Buffett among others, this island chain is also well known for its spectacular fishing. With clear waters bounding with a wide variety of fish and a long fishing season, it is easy to see why the tiny islands are always attracting fishermen to some of North America’s greatest fishing. For great fishing from the northern city of Key Largo to the southern point at Key West, hire a guide for a day to help navigate your trip and enjoy your day offshore.
LAKE OKEECHOBEE
Take advantage of some great Florida fishing at one of the best spots for freshwater fish: Lake Okeechobee. Lake Okeechobee’s name means “big water”, a translation from two Hitchiti words, and accurately enough, it is the second-largest lake entirely within United States borders, only smaller than Lake Michigan. Known as the speckled perch capital of the world, the large variety of fish who call Lake Okeechobee their home include largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, bream and bluegill. Competitors from around the country and the world come in every year when the town hosts several major bass-fishing contests. Boat rental options also abound, from airboats to larger options and tours are available to acquaint visitors to the area.
PIER FISHING
If tour guides, bass boats, and GPS’s sound like they will complicate your vacation time that should be spent soaking up the sunshine with good company, a cold drink and good food, check out any of the more casual pier fishing locations throughout Florida. Piers are located in regular intervals down the beach and so they will probably be only a short walk from your condo or hotel room. Besides the great destinations already listed, other popular tourist towns all around the state including Jacksonville and St. Petersburg have an abundance of piers with fishing allowed. While planning your trip check out pier fishing guides online or wait until you arrive to visit any of the travel information kiosks to find great pier fishing locations.
Everyone will enjoy their vacation when planning a trip around Florida fishing the sunshine state can satisfy both amateur and pro from the Gulf waters all the way down to the Keys. When it comes to visiting Florida fishing destinations, you may never want to leave.
