Fishing in Choctawhatchee Bay: The Ultimate Guide

Florida's Emerald Coast attracts many visitors with its sun, sea, and unique beaches. For the discerning angler, Choctawhatchee Bay offers a hidden treasure. While others flock to popular spots, true fishing enthusiasts find their haven in these brackish waters.

In the heart of Destin Bay, Choctawhatchee Bay offers exhilarating fishing in its flats and marshes. Battle big fish in a serene setting, all at an affordable price, with the thrill of the chase and the joy of a successful catch.

This guide is your key to mastering fishing in Choctawhatchee Bay. It covers everything from fish selection, tackles, and lures to locations, techniques, and insider tips. Even if you've been here before, our guide will inspire you to explore more. Prepare, plan, and join us on a journey to discover this hidden gem, where you'll be ready for your next fishing adventure.

Fish Species Found in Choctawhatchee Bay

Choctawhatchee Bay is a breathtaking blend of diverse aquatic habitats, including swamps, oyster beds, brackish waters, coves, corals, and reefs! It's a haven for fish species, boasting a rich variety of aquatic life. So, let's dive in and explore some of them!

Native Species 

Choctawhatchee Bay is home to an entire range of fish species. They reign here and enjoy an excellent, pristine environment that favors their growth and development. Let's meet them.

Redfish 

In Choctawhatchee Bay, Redfish are a species that fits perfectly into the complexity of the underwater realm. They swim in various locations, including shallows, estuaries, mud flats, and sandy areas. Since these fish are everywhere, no matter where you catch them, they are always in a fighting mood, so hunting them is everything but not boring.

They can grow to truly enormous sizes, up to 40 inches or more, and weigh over 30 pounds, which, while a frequent adversary, does not make them the least bit naive.

• Best Time to Catch: Warmer months
• Habitat: Shallows, estuaries, mud flats, and sandy areas
• Preferred Bait: Live shrimp, mullet and crab, soft plastics and spoons
• Fishing Technique: Fly fishing, casting 
• Difficulty: Moderate 
• Depth: Shallow to moderate

The best time to hunt them is during warmer weather when they move to shallower areas to feed and spawn. Anglers target them using live shrimp, mullets, crabs, and artificial lures such as soft plastics and spoons, combining them with fly fishing and casting techniques.

The Redfish are striking and beautiful. In addition to the copper-bronze color, the spot near the tail stands out, which is why they were nicknamed "spot tail" in some regions.

Black Drum

In the calm waters of Choctawhatchee Bay, you will most often find Black Drums lurking on the bottom in search of crustaceans, mollusks, and small fish. Gluttonous and perhaps not as combative as their red cousins, Black Drum compensate with their size, where adults typically reach up to 30 inches in length and weigh over 50 pounds.

Black Drums are versatile inhabitants. They are found in marshy areas and deeper brackish water channels, where the mixture of fresh and saltwater provides plenty of food. Their season is during the warmer months when it is easier to lure them out of their complicated underwater shelters.

• Best Time to Catch: Warmer months
• Habitat: Marshy areas and deeper brackish water channels
• Preferred Bait: Shrimp, crabs and shellfish
• Fishing Technique: Live and artificial bait
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging 
• Depth: Moderate to deep

When it comes to the choice of bait, since Black Drums have a large appetite, they will bite shrimp, crabs, and shellfish very frenziedly. Anglers mostly hunt them using live and artificial bait, with bottom or Carolina equipment to be effective.

Distinctive in appearance, with a silver-grey body and vertical black stripes, Black Drum is adept at baiting with hard-shelled baits. Its huge, powerful jaws with crushing teeth make it a favorite fighter for those looking to reel in a heavyweight contender.

Flounder

Flounders have an aura of mysticism and intrigue around them. They are masters of tactics, hunting from an ambush and using camouflage, so they often wait on the sandy bottom or near a building. When they spot their prey, they strike with lightning. They swim in areas with sandy or muddy substrates. Their ability to seamlessly blend into their surroundings makes them a fascinating target for anglers.

• Best Time to Catch: Spring and fall
• Habitat: Sandy or muddy substrates
• Preferred Bait: Shrimp and mullet
• Fishing Technique: Live and artificial bait, bottom fishing
• Difficulty: Challenging 
• Depth: Deep

Their season in Choctawhatchee Bay is spring and fall, when they move to shallower waters to breed. They will not resist shrimp and mullets, with a successful presentation in bottom fishing and artificial baits such as soft plastic. 

Flounders, with their funny, clownish appearance, flattened bodies, and eyes on one side of the head, are also exciting because they can change color to match the environment. All in all, the Flounder, with its deceptive nature, has been luring hunters for centuries.

Sheepshead

Sheepshead has an exciting appearance, tasty meat, and the ability to put on a good fishing match. What more could an angler want? Named for their uncanny resemblance to a farm animal, these fish have vertical black stripes along their bodies and robust, sheep-like teeth, which they use to crush their favorite prey, crabs and small fish. 

• Best Time to Catch: Spring and fall
• Habitat: Oyster beds, piers and rocky shores
• Preferred Bait: Live or fresh shrimp, fiddler crabs and clams
• Fishing Technique: Live and artificial bait, bottom fishing
• Difficulty: Challenging 
• Depth: Moderate 

You'll find them around oyster beds, docks, piers, and rocky shores. What's more specific about the Sheepshead is that they delicately pick the bait off the hook, almost with some elegant finesse. They can grow up to 20 inches and are in season during the cooler months. 

Sheepshead will fall for the baits, including live or fresh shrimp, fiddler crabs, and clams on small hooks. Sheepshead combines robustness and elegance, and that's precisely the kind of approach they demand from anglers.

Speckled Trout

Speckled Trout symbolize striking beauty, exciting fights, and delicious meat. In addition, they have a specific body characterized by dark spots scattered over the silver-gray body, which shimmers in the water. Likes to swim around grass flats, sandy bottoms, and submerged structures.

Also, It likes rougher, turbulent waters, where it waits to catch passing prey. Although not as large as some of their relatives, they can reach up to 30 inches in length, and what is certain is that they will fight much harder than their appearance would suggest they are capable of.

• Best Time to Catch: Spring and fall
• Habitat: Oyster beds, piers and rocky shores
• Preferred Bait: Live shrimp, mullets, and topwater soft plastics and plugs
• Fishing Technique: Light spinning tackle
• Difficulty: Challenging 
• Depth: Moderate 

They are most numerous during the colder months, and the peak of the fishing season usually occurs in spring and fall. Fishing with light spinning tackle and fluorocarbon leaders has proven to be the most successful, and you can use a wide selection of lures, including live shrimp, mullets, and topwater soft plastics and plugs.

Speckled Trout has its army of fans all along the Florida coast, including here. It is undoubtedly one of the most respected fish because it knows how to choose the best.

Migratory Species 

If you're a fan of slightly fiercer ocean animals, you won't be disappointed, and if you're skilled at hunting them, there's no end to your happiness! Here are the most famous migratory species.

Spanish Mackerel 

Spanish Mackerel is a species often on the move, sometimes alone and usually in large schools that patrol the bay channels, flats, and coastal waters. With beautiful, smooth bodies built for fast swimming and lightning strikes, these fish are a joy to catch for both beginners and experienced anglers. In Choctawhatchee Bay, the spring and summer seasons are the prime migratory time.

• Best Time to Catch: Spring and summer
• Habitat: Deep waters, piers and rocky shores
• Preferred Bait: Mullet, menhaden and anchovies, crabs and shrimp
• Fishing Technique: Trolling, jigging, live bait fishing
• Difficulty: Challenging 
• Depth: Moderate to deep

They feed on small bait fish such as mullet, menhaden, anchovies, crabs, and shrimp. Although not the most significant game, with a length not exceeding 30 inches, once they think they have been caught, a fight show is similar to that of much larger fish. 

Anglers target mainly by trolling, jigging with flash baits, and live baiting with small fish or shrimp. For many anglers, Spanish Mackerel is a crucial fish; once they master it, they know they are good enough to catch even more fish like Tuna or Marlin.

King Mackerel

A close but somewhat more extensive and meaner cousin of the Spanish Mackerel, it attracts adventurers from far and wide with its robust appearance and toothy smile. Affectionately known as "Kingfish," they are often targeted due to their delicious, delicate flesh. 

They are also true ocean wanderers, usually found in the deeper waters of the Gulf channels. Kingfish are voracious, so you will most easily lure them with baits such as mullet, menhaden, and sardines. 

• Best Time to Catch: Warmer months
• Habitat: Deep waters
• Preferred Bait: Mullets, menhaden and sardines
• Fishing Technique: Trolling, jigging, live bait fishing
• Difficulty: Challenging 
• Depth: Moderate to deep

Due to their size and restless spirit, it is best to catch them by jigging, trolling, or using live bait techniques. Almost all specimens you come across will be impressively large, reaching 40 inches or more and weighing over 30 pounds. On Choctawhatchee Bay, they are often most abundant during the warmer months, with peak season in late spring and summer.

Pompano

In the sun-drenched waters of Choctawhatchee Bay, the Pompano shines with striking silver bodies and distinctive forked tails, and it is truly a sight to behold. Pompano's favorite habitats are grassy areas near canals, plains, and passes, where they feed mainly on small crustaceans. Pompano's food results in a wonderful meat flavor and makes them highly sought after for culinary purposes.

• Best Time to Catch: Spring and fall
• Habitat: Grassy areas near canals, plains and passes
• Preferred Bait: Sand fleas, shrimp or artificial baits
• Fishing Technique: Casting
• Difficulty: Challenging 
• Depth: Moderate to deep

Adults usually reach up to 18 inches in length, but their powerful runs make up for any lack of size. In Choctawhatchee Bay, the peak fishing season usually occurs in the spring and fall, and the preferred technique is casting with sand fleas, shrimp, or artificial baits and fishing from boats with docks. For all that, the Pompano has very sharp eyesight, which means that the bait and your presentation must be very convincing.

Bluefish

The Bluefish is a voracious, ruthless predator with an elegant body and distinctive blue-green color. This fearsome fish has an unerring sense of smell as it patrols the bay's canals, flats, and coastal waters to satisfy its insatiable appetite. In addition, they have razor-sharp teeth and powerful jaws, which adds another dangerous dimension to hunting them. 

• Best Time to Catch: Spring and fall
• Habitat: Canals, flats and inshore waters
• Preferred Bait: Spoons, plugs, or flash bait
• Fishing Technique: Trolling, casting, fly fishing
• Difficulty: Challenging 
• Depth: Moderate to deep

They migrate to Chokoo waters in the spring and fall, moving into shallower waters to feed and spawn. Trolling with spoons, plugs, or flash baits is the most common technique for catching Bluefish, although you can also try live bait or fly fishing. Their terrible aggression and voracious appetite make them a very provocative species for anglers looking for more excitement.

Prime Fishing Spots in Choctawhatchee Bay

Variety is the essential word of Choctawhatchee Bay regarding everything, including the locations from which you can fish! The choice is always yours, and these are our suggestions.

Hogtown Bayou

Hogtown Bayou is just east of the Mid-Bay Bridge in Choctawhatchee Bay. This somewhat hidden cove is a network of grassy areas and shallow flats. Complex brackish waters attract species that like such an environment, so you will meet Speckled Trout and Redfish here. It is also close to Santa Rosa Beach, which further adds to its appeal, providing easy access for anglers staying in the area.

If you like to drift or cast from a kayak, Hogtown Bayou offers secluded places with its shallow waters and winding channels. If you like the charisma and quietness of the bay and salt-fresh water, there's no point in missing this.

The Choctawhatchee River

The Choctawhatchee River is a premier destination for its abundant trophy-sized Redfish and Speckled Trout populations. This picturesque river, winding through the heart of Florida, has channels and shallows suitable for many anglers. You can approach it in various ways, but the most popular is fishing near the mouth of the river, especially where it meets the bay. 

Anglers know to explore around rock piles and other structures where fish can make a quality ambush. You should know that this river also hides dangers in sight and the alligator population.

Although encounters are rare, it is crucial to remain vigilant and respect the natural habitat of these predators. You can explore it from the shore, and if you are in the water, ensure your boat is of good quality.

The Choctawhatchee River is a unique gem in the Sunshine State's untamed wilderness.

The Mid-Bay Bridge

The Mid-Bay Bridge, a prominent landmark in Choctawhatchee Bay, is strategically placed to connect but also serves as a magnet for schools of fish, especially Speckled Trout, which find shelter around the bridge structures.

Located just a 10-minute drive from the famous East Pass, the Mid-Bay Bridge offers convenient access for superb fishing. You can cast from the bridge or float nearby in a boat; there will be no shortage of action and excitement as they target the prolific fish species that call the Mid-Bay Bridge home. From sunrise to sunset, this beautiful building connects people, cities, and nature in many ways.

The East Pass Piers 

The East Pass Piers are the gateway to the area's exciting fishing adventures. These iconic jetties are where the waters of Choctawhatchee Bay meet the Gulf of Mexico, creating a very fertile fishing environment.

One of the key attractions of the East Pass Jetties is the fluctuating salinity of the water, as well as changes with the tides, which translates to fishing opportunities with Redfish and Sheepshead dominating. However, that is not all; the diverse ecosystem offers surprises in Spanish Mackerel, Trout, Flounder, and Shark.

East Pass Jetties genuinely embody the spirit of the area's legendary fishing scene, rounding it off and opening it up to new fishing adventures.

Fishing Techniques in Choctawhatchee Bay

Stick to one technique, combine it with others, build on it, or try something new. You can do all this in Choctawhatchee Bay or somewhere else, whichever you prefer. We have selected a few of the most popular techniques in these waters and will discuss them in more detail below.

Sight Fishing

Sight fishing is one of the more striking techniques because, in addition to the usual excitement of fishing, it requires coordinated control of the whole body and, thus, direct contact with its prey. This is primarily possible because it relies on sharp observation and precise casting, that is, absolute engagement of mind and body.

In Choctawhatchee Bay, sight fishing is prevalent because of the bay's pristine conditions and abundant species such as Redfish, Speckled Trout, and Flounder. 

Sight fishing almost feels like practicing an Eastern martial art, where movement control and visual focus are paramount. Anglers use polarized sunglasses to cut through surface glare and spot fish more efficiently. Once the fish is spotted, the angler must sneak up and cast with almost surgical precision, using light sets with artificial or live baits that imitate natural prey. 

Bait presentation often involves casting, flipping, or skipping to place your offering in the fish's path without causing a disturbance. The most important thing to be successful in fishing is to know the habits of the target species. Knowing these habits will be the basis for harmonizing the whole approach, where patience and self-control are the most important.

Drifting

Drifting is a versatile technique that allows for such an upgrade that it can be almost prehistorically simple or ultra-modern with many modern technology gadgets. No matter how you use it, its advantage is covering a more extensive water surface and targeting different species.

This technique allows the boat to float naturally with the current and by the wind as anglers toss and retrieve their bait presentations. Pompano, Spanish Mackerel, and Redfish are usually caught this way.

Presentation is the most critical and challenging part, as anglers must adjust casting distance and speed to match the behavior of the fish and water conditions. Using light settings that allow for delicate presentations and sensitive detection is preferable. The drifting bait depends on the type of fish, but in principle, it includes shrimp, spoons, and soft plastics.

Drifting is an exciting way to combine the peace and excitement of fishing. You can adapt it to yourself and practice it in an ordinary, old-fashioned fishing boat or a modern yacht.

Live Bait Fishing

Live bait fishing is prevalent in many underwater and coastal areas in Choctawhatchee Bay. It is nature-friendly, meaning you can look for fresh baits or buy them; they minimize polluting the environment. These are mostly shrimp, crustaceans, and other tiny organisms the target species prefer. Live bait fishing is natural and easily mimics the natural behavior and appearance of prey, making it attractive to predatory fish.

This versatile technique can be used in various locations, from shallow flats and grass beds to deeper channels and coastal reefs. You can fish from anchored boats, drift with the current, or even wade in shallow waters.

With its steady, peaceful approach, meditation can help one comprehend a complex nature, making it a popular and addictive technique for all interested in exploring.

Bottom Fishing

Bottom fishing is a classic and traditional technique that has been modernized a lot today, but you can still use it as you see fit. As its name suggests, it is used to hunt species on the bottom, i.e., from all the various structures that lead to the bottom.

It can be used in a wide range of habitats and depths within the bay, and depending on the prevailing conditions, you can choose to fish from moored boats, drifting in the current, or even from shore or piers.

Whichever location you choose, presentation is vital, as anglers need to ensure that their baits or lures are as natural and attractive as possible to attract fish. Bottom rigs or Carolina rigs are often used, which help present lures close to the bottom with minimal tangles en route to the bottom.

Besides being traditionally associated with hunting larger, migratory species, bottom fishing is very versatile, and everything depends on your creativity, will, and time.

Jigging 

Although, at first, jigging is a technique that we associate with fishing for pelagic species, jigging is not exclusive; it is versatile and dynamic. Sheepshead, Pompano, to bottom-dwelling Flounder or pelagic King Mackerel, you can catch them all if you are skillful enough.

Jigging is the vertical movement of a bait or lure up and down in the water column. These frantic, joyful movements attract fish below. You can also practice jigging in habitats from shallow flats and reefs to deeper channels. It is mainly practiced from speeding boats, which are easy to maneuver and quickly change speed and direction.

Jigs come in various forms, such as soft plastics, bucktail jigs, and metal jigs. As with most techniques, jigging's success depends on the angler's skill and ability to package everything well and present the fish with an offer it cannot refuse.

Fishing Regulations and Licenses in Choctawhatchee Bay

Many delicate aquatic and coastal systems in Choctawhatchee Bay are interconnected with Florida's natural resources. Preserving their beauty and overall global importance is essential.

As an angler, you must comply with local regulations and have the appropriate fishing license. If you are over 16 and want to fish here, you must have a valid Florida fishing license. You can buy it online, on the official website of the leading organization, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), in local stores, or at authorized agents. 

You can legally fish in the bay's waters by obtaining licenses and respecting the rules. In addition to having permits, it's essential to understand bag limits, size, and closed seasons for different species.

Anglers should also be informed of gear regulations and use legal fishing gear while respecting catch-and-release practices. In this way, you are not deprived of the beauty of fishing, but, on the contrary, you contribute to it and, at the same time, preserve it for generations to come. 

Final Thoughts 

A famous saying goes When in doubt, fish! In our current context, if you weren't sure if Choctawhatchee Bay is a location that will meet your angler's expectations, don't be troubled by doubts, come and fish! Cut through your doubts and mind wanderings, and let yourself go on an adventure in these waters. 

We have explained and presented everything else quite clearly! If we haven't, or if we should add something else, please let us know in the comments! But also, include kind words, share our guide, and converse with colleagues! You can brag as much as you want and share photos of trophies and destinations, and we support everything! Happy fishing!