%2Ffit-in%2F250x250%2Fusers%2Fdab44c2f-3361-4405-9d51-b8fbd7001f88%2Fimages%2F137b629a-0af6-4d67-9227-cefd1d973d4d.jpeg&w=1200&q=100)
Expert-Guided Night Flounder Gigging in Destin
- Published Date: July 17, 2025
- Fishing
- Destin
- $600 - $2,000 price range
Summary
%2F%2Fusers%2Fdab44c2f-3361-4405-9d51-b8fbd7001f88%2Fratecard%2F87c80a37-4c64-4b7c-bb79-1966606ad493.jpeg&w=1200&q=75)
Night Lights and Catches
Fresh snapper and amberjack catch
Proud angler with large amberjack
Gentle shark release
Massive mixed catch
null
null
Fresh red snapper and pompano catch
Focused angler battling deep-sea catch
Big blue marlin hooked
Powerful shark fight
Fresh snapper and amberjack catch
Proud angler with large amberjack
Gentle shark release
Massive mixed catch
null
null
Fresh red snapper and pompano catch
Focused angler battling deep-sea catch
Big blue marlin hooked
Powerful shark fight
Fresh snapper and amberjack catch
Proud angler with large amberjack
Gentle shark release
Massive mixed catch
Night Fishing Adventure: Flounder Gigging in Destin
Ready for a fishing trip that'll knock your socks off? Hop aboard our custom-built skiff, Floundering Around, for a 4-hour flounder gigging charter that'll light up your night. We're talking about stalking the shallows under the cover of darkness, armed with gigs and high-powered lights, on the hunt for some of the tastiest flatfish in the Gulf. This ain't your average day on the water – it's a whole different ballgame when the sun goes down.
What's the Deal with Night Fishing?
Picture this: You're gliding across glassy waters, the city lights twinkling in the distance. As our specialized lights sweep across the bottom, you'll spot all sorts of critters that only come out to play after dark. Flounder are the main event, but don't be surprised if you see mullet skittering across the surface or a big ol' blue crab scuttling by. It's like you've stumbled into an underwater nightclub, and you've got the VIP pass. Our 32' ProCat ensures a smooth ride, so you can focus on the action without worrying about getting tossed around.
Gig 'Em: How We Hunt Flounder
Alright, let's talk shop. Gigging isn't your run-of-the-mill fishing – it's more like underwater spearfishing, but way easier. We use long poles with multi-pronged spears on the end, called gigs. As we cruise along, you'll be perched on the bow, gig at the ready. When you spot a flounder camouflaged on the bottom, it's go time. A quick, precise stab, and boom – dinner's served. It's a bit like playing a real-life video game, only the prize is some of the best-eating fish you'll ever taste. Don't worry if you're new to this – we'll show you the ropes and have you gigging like a pro in no time.
Target Species: Flatfish and Friends
Southern Flounder are the stars of the show on our gigging trips. These masters of disguise can change their color to match the bottom, but they can't hide from our lights. They're ambush predators, lying in wait for unsuspecting baitfish to swim by. Flounder can grow up to 28 inches long, but most of what we catch are in the 14-20 inch range – perfect for the dinner table. The best time to target them is during their fall migration when they move into shallower waters.
Black Drum are another common catch on our night trips. These bruisers can grow huge, but we usually encounter ones in the 5-30 pound range. They love hanging around structures and make a distinctive croaking sound that can sometimes give away their position. Black drum are most active at night, using their sensitive barbels to feel for crabs and shrimp on the bottom.
Sheepshead, with their human-like teeth and prison-stripe sides, are a favorite among locals. They're notorious bait-stealers during the day, but at night, we can sometimes spot them near pilings and jetties. Sheepshead are at their peak in the cooler months, typically from October through April.
Flathead Grey Mullet might not be the sexiest fish in the sea, but don't knock 'em till you've tried 'em. These vegetarians are often overlooked by anglers, but they're a blast to gig and make for some mighty fine eating. You'll often see them in schools, and when spooked, they have a habit of leaping clear out of the water. It's not uncommon to have a mullet jump right into the boat – talk about delivery service!
Why Folks Keep Coming Back
Let me tell you, there's something special about being out on the water at night. The chaos of the day fades away, and you're left with this serene, almost otherworldly experience. But don't let the calm fool you – the moment you spot that first flounder, your heart'll be racing. It's addictive, really. And the best part? You're not just fishing; you're bringing home the freshest seafood you can get. Nothing beats firing up the grill with fish you gigged yourself just hours ago. It's the kind of trip that'll have you checking the calendar for your next day off before we even hit the dock.
Time to Get Your Gig On
If you're itching for a fishing experience that's off the beaten path, our 4-hour flounder gigging trip is calling your name. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to try something new or a first-timer wanting to jump in with both feet, we've got you covered. With room for up to four guests, it's perfect for a night out with friends or a unique family adventure. Just remember to bring a cooler for your catch – trust me, you're gonna need it. So what are you waiting for? The flounder aren't going to gig themselves. Book your spot now, and let's light up the night!
Learn more about the animals
Black Drum
Black drum are the heavyweight cousins of redfish, known for their powerful jaws and human-like teeth. They range from 5 to 30 pounds, with some monsters hitting 90. You'll find them in brackish waters and estuaries, especially around oyster beds and other structures. Spring is spawning time, when they gather in large schools and make croaking sounds to attract mates. Anglers love drum for their strong fight and good eating, though bigger ones can be tough. They're bottom feeders, so use fresh crab, clams, or shrimp on a fish-finder rig. Here's a local trick: scrape some barnacles off pilings to create a chum slick. The scent draws them in like magic. Just remember, for the best taste, keep the smaller ones under 15 pounds and release the big breeders.
Flathead Grey Mullet
Flathead grey mullet, often just called mullet, are common sights in our shallow waters. They average about 20 inches but can grow larger. You'll spot them in schools, often jumping out of the water – it's quite a show! They prefer calm, shallow areas with sandy or muddy bottoms. While not typically targeted by sport fishermen, mullet are fun to catch and make great bait for other species. They're mostly vegetarian, feeding on algae and small organisms. To catch them, try chumming with bread and using a light setup with small hooks. Fly fishing with tiny flies can work too. Summer and fall are peak seasons. Here's a local secret: look for calm areas with lots of floating debris – mullet love hanging out there. They might not be the biggest fighters, but their acrobatics and abundance make for an entertaining day on the water.
Sheepshead
Sheepshead, nicknamed "convict fish" for their distinctive black stripes, are a real treat to catch. They typically run 1-8 pounds but can reach 20. You'll find them around any structure with barnacles – docks, bridges, and reefs are prime spots. They're most active in early spring when they spawn near passes and offshore structures. Anglers love sheepshead for their sweet, white meat and the challenge of hooking them. They're notorious bait stealers with those weird human-like teeth. For best results, use live bait like fiddler crabs or barnacles on a light setup. Get as close to the structure as you can without spooking them. Here's a pro tip: when you feel a nibble, wait a second before setting the hook hard. It takes practice, but landing these crafty fish is super satisfying.
Southern Flounder
Southern flounder are masters of camouflage, blending perfectly with sandy or muddy bottoms. Usually 15-18 inches long, these flat fish have both eyes on their left side. They're ambush predators, lying in wait for smaller fish and crustaceans. You'll find them in shallow coastal waters, bays, and estuaries. Fall is prime time as they move offshore to spawn. Anglers love targeting flounder for their delicate, sweet meat and the challenge of hooking them. They're notorious bait stealers, so patience is key. My tip? Use a slow retrieve with live bait like bull minnows or mullet on a Carolina rig. When you feel that distinctive "thump," give it a second before setting the hook. Night fishing with lights can be especially productive, letting you spot their silhouettes against the bottom.
About the Flounder'N Around
%2F%2Fusers%2Fdab44c2f-3361-4405-9d51-b8fbd7001f88%2Fvehicle_picture%2F4e9233c4-9f5c-42bd-bfba-3465f4f06eb8.jpeg&w=1200&q=75)
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 9
Manufacturer Name: Honda
Maximum Cruising Speed: 30
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 200
