An Expert Guide to the Best Fishing in Fort Walton Beach
The ocean and surrounding waterways are an essential part of the Fort Walton Beach experience, especially when it comes to angling. Whether you want to charter a boat or cast a line in from the shore, there are plenty of ways to enjoy Fort Walton Beach fishing. From in-shore to offshore fishing excursions, everything you need for the ultimate fishing trip is in Fort Walton Beach! To make the most of your Gulf Coast getaway, be sure to request access to our complimentary Vacation Guide! Inside you’ll find details on the best activities, entertainment, dining, events, and more that our beautiful area has to offer.
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How to Experience World Class Fishing in Fort Walton Beach
Private Charter Boats & Fishing Charters
A fishing trip is always an exciting endeavor. You can look forward to the freedom that the ocean provides, the relaxation of the waves, and the thrill of catching your first fish of the day. The Gulf of Mexico is one of the best places to embark on an inshore or deep-sea fishing trip, and Fort Walton Beach offers some of the best experiences in the area!
If you want to enjoy an exciting Fort Walton Beach deep sea fishing experience or charter a boat, check out our favorite Gulf Coast charters:
- Living Right Fishing Charters
- One-Shot Fishing Charters
- Sunshine Fishing Charters
- Blue Water Escape Fishing Charters
- Salty Dawgz’ Deep Sea Fishing and Charters
Surf Fishing
If you don’t feel like hopping in a fishing boat, you can always catch fish right from the shoreline. Miles of sandy beaches await you, but one of the best spots for casting a line is John Beasly Park on Okaloosa Island. The park is situated in a wide-open stretch of beach, away from crowds and establishments, plus this space even offers a great view of the Okaloosa Island fishing pier in the distance so that you can enjoy a surf fishing adventure like no other!
Pro Tip: Please be mindful of people swimming around you if you fish from the beach.
What’s in Season on Fort Walton Beach and Okaloosa Island?
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
| Amberjack | Red Snapper | Amberjack | Tuna |
| Vermillion Snapper | Vermillion Snapper | Vermillion Snapper | Vermillion Snapper |
| White Snapper | White Snapper | White Snapper | White Snapper |
| Black Snapper | Black Snapper | Black Snapper | Black Snapper |
| Shark | Shark | Shark | Triggerfish |
| Cobia | King Mackerel | King Mackerel | |
| Spanish Mackerel | Spanish Mackerel | Spanish Mackerel | |
| Triggerfish | Triggerfish | Grouper | |
| Mahi Mahi | Mahi Mahi | Mahi Mahi | |
| Wahoo | Wahoo | Wahoo | |
| Tuna | Tuna | Tuna | |
| Sailfish | Sailfish | Sailfish | |
| Marlin | Marlin | Marlin | |
| Grouper |
Return to Shore at El Matador
El Matador is your key to the ultimate Gulf of Mexico getaway. Our collection of vacation rentals features everything from studios to oceanfront properties! In addition to fascinating fishing experiences on Fort Walton Beach, El Matador offers guests exclusive access to an array of outstanding amenities. Throughout the property, you’ll get to enjoy pools, tennis courts, a whirlpool hot tub, a fitness center, and more!
Browse our selection of beachfront vacation rentals and start planning your fishing trip today. We look forward to welcoming you to Okaloosa Island and Fort Walton Beach!