With diverse ecosystems, plenty of marine life, and good weather for exploring the outdoors throughout the year, Navarre Beach and the Emerald Coast of Florida are wonderful destinations for a great vacation — particularly for those who want to combine some fishing with it. The region boasts a profound connection to fishing traditions that go back generations.
Navarre Beach is a great base to explore the Emerald Coast and go fishing in the area. However, with so many fishing opportunities in and around Navarre Beach, it can be hard to know where to start and figure out the local regulations. Worry never. This blog will act as your basic guide for fishing in and around Navarre Beach, FL.
Get ready to dive into a splash-tastic world of water wonders!
Inshore and Offshore Fishing in Navarre Beach
The Gulf of Mexico boasts warm waters teeming with a diverse array of fish species. For this reason, it is considered one of the best fishing destinations, not just in the U.S., but in the entire world.
Close to the East Bay River and situated on Santa Rosa Island, a barrier island that runs parallel to the mainland between the Santa Rosa Sound and the Gulf of Mexico, Navarre Beach makes for an ideal location for both inshore and offshore fishing. It also offers great surf and pier fishing for those seeking a more relaxing experience.
The area is known for its expansive coastal marshes, estuaries, and bays, not to mention its nearshore reefs and endless deep-sea fishing. This fortunate marine geography provides diverse habitats for a multitude of fish.
Whether you're a seasoned fishing pro or someone eager to try new activities, Navarre Beach is the place to be, and the backdrop of calm waters and white sandy beaches will definitely enhance the overall experience.
Inshore fishing in Navarre Beach, Florida
Inshore fishing is any fishing that takes place in waters roughly 30 meters deep or less, typically near the shore, in shallow bays, estuaries, and marshes — much of which you will find when fishing in Navarre Beach.
These calmer waters are inhabited by smaller fish, but the variety in species and quantity can be quite substantial. Moreover, inshore fishing requires the use of lighter tackle and smaller boats or kayaks.
In Navarre Beach, you can enjoy inshore fishing in various locations, including the East Bay River, the Santa Rosa Sound, the Intracoastal Waterway, and Navarre Beach Causeway.
Common species in the Gulf for inshore fishing include Redfish and trout, the two favorite of most anglers, but also Sheepshead, Bluefish, Flounder, Tarpon, and Jack Crevalle. A little bit up north, you'll also find Spanish Mackerel, Sharks, and Pompano.
Offshore fishing in Navarre Beach, Florida
Not just the waters of Navarre Beach, but the entire Gulf area is also a prime location for offshore fishing, a category of fishing that takes place in deeper waters. That's where the real big fish live, and the Gulf of Mexico is home to some truly impressive species.
In offshore fishing, you'll travel miles away from the shore on a larger boat in the direction of natural reefs or man-made structures like oil rigs and shipwrecks, all of which provide excellent habitat for baitfish as well as large saltwater game fish.
Heading offshore from Navarre Beach, for instance, may require traveling over 30 miles or more. But it's worth the trip because that's where you will find Billfish species, mackerel, Tuna, Mahi Mahi, and Wahoo, to name a few.
This category requires heavier equipment and various bait and lure options to attract and catch larger species, so keep that in mind.
The Best Seasons for Inshore and Offshore Fishing in Navarre Beach
In Navarre Beach and the Emerald Coast, it's always a great time for fishing somewhere. Here's a breakdown of the highlights by season:
Spring (March to May): Spring is a good time for coastal species, including Redfish and Trout. As the waters warm up, fish become more active, and you can also target species like Spanish Mackerel and Sheepshead in the region around Navarre.
Summer (June to August): Summers offer opportunities for both inshore and offshore fishing. Inshore, you can catch species like Snapper, Flounder, and more. Offshore, pelagic species such as Mahi Mahi, Tuna, and Wahoo are often abundant.
Fall (September to November): Fall is another productive season for fishing in the Navarre Beach area. Redfish and Trout remain active, and you may also encounter migrating species such as King Mackerel and Tarpon. Offshore, the action can continue with species like King Mackerel and Sailfish.
Winter (December to February): Winter still offers fishing opportunities near Navarre Beach, but the activity and species can differ compared to the warmer months. Pier fishing can be a particularly good option for winter fishing as some fish like to move closer to structures like piers, and bridges, in search of crustaceans.
As a rule of thumb, the best fishing season starts in late spring and lasts until early fall, with June and July generally considered the best months. These are the months when most species are more active, and you'll find plenty of red snapper, grouper, and amberjack in the waters.
Also, summer offers a diverse range of places and species to target for those seeking a deep-sea experience.
Wondering How to Explore the Waters of Navarre Beach?
For fishing, the best way to go about it is by taking your own boat or hiring one from one of the many charter companies around. Here are some of the local favorites:
This is one of the favorite companies in the region. Great for family trips, especially if you have kids in tow. They take you fishing in the gentle inshore and offshore waters for Redfish, Bull Reds, Speckled Trout, Flounder, Sheepshead, and more. The captain, Lucky Chucky, has been fishing in Florida all his life, and he did it around the world too, as you can read in his bio. After a long time touring the world, he went back home to share his passion with local enthusiasts and visitors.
Captain Lucky Chucky has an excellent reputation, and his extensive knowledge of the area ensures you'll leave with valuable insights into Gulf marine life. You might even gain some tips on how to cook your catch. Renting their services guarantees a fantastic fishing experience. Whether it's your first trip or not, chances are you'll head back home with a cooler full of fish.
Pensacola Fishing CO.
This is another top-rated service that provides fishing charter and guide services from Navarre to Pensacola. With over 20 years of experience, they specialize in light tackle inshore and offshore fishing, targeting snapper, redfish, trout, grouper, flounder, cobia, and more. They even have shark fishing charters.
They offer full-day or half-day trips, and they have a special tour for a full-day big game fish excursion. Captain Mason is very knowledgeable and will guarantee you have a wonderful time. You'll probably catch a lot of fish and see some dolphins and jellyfish.
Coastal Life Charters specializes in family fishing charters and excursions where you will catch speckled trout, redfish, flounder, sheepshead, and Spanish mackerel. Their services are very customizable; if you prefer a more relaxing and serene experience, they will provide that, and if you want to have the nice bonus of seeing the Blue Angels practicing in Pensacola, they might also make that happen. This option is great for a leisurely exploration.
Captain Ashley and Captain Joe are very friendly and knowledgeable. Their sunset cruise combos are especially nice to end the day with an unparalleled natural spectacle. All in all, you will most probably see plenty of dolphins, catch a lot of fish, and have a great boat ride at the very least.
Licenses & Permits for Fishing in Florida
As you can see, in the context of Navarre Beach, whether you prefer inshore or offshore fishing, you have no shortage of options. But heads up! Before heading out for your fishing adventures, check the licenses and permits for fishing in Florida.
To avoid hefty fines, it is important to comply with state regulations. These procedures might sound like a turn-off, but they are in place to guarantee your safety and ensure the conservation of wildlife habitats and fish populations.
To know more about licenses and permits in Florida, check the website of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. This link will provide the latest information and ensure a legal hunting and fishing experience for you.
Extra Tips for Fishing in Navarre Beach, FL
Other than understanding and adhering to the regulations set by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, make sure to always ensure your own safety when fishing. This includes bringing sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a hat. Also, nice extras to have when fishing are some snacks and refreshments for yourself, especially if you are offshore. Most charter options will provide you with a cooler for storage.
Wondering Where to Stay on Navarre Beach During your Fishing Trip?
While visiting Navarre, stay like a local and book one of our Navarre Beach vacation rentals with all the space, privacy, and home-like amenities you need. From luxury beachfront homes to amazing rental condos, at Navarre Beach Property, we guarantee you'll have a 5-star experience during your Navarre Beach vacation.
