Crab Island Fish & Swim Combo in Destin
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Combination fishing and swimming trip with Captain Jake SargentTarget Mangrove Snapper, Black Drum, and Redfish inshoreVisit Crab Island's clear waters after fishing session
Looking for the perfect day on the water that combines some solid fishing action with the crystal-clear paradise of Crab Island? Captain Jake Sargent has you covered with this top-rated combo trip aboard Charter Boat 2nd Chance. You'll start your morning working the inshore waters around Destin targeting some of our most popular species, then cool off at the famous sandbar where the water turns that signature emerald green. It's the kind of trip that keeps families and fishing buddies coming back year after year – no need to choose between catching fish and enjoying the beach when you can have both in one awesome day.
Your day kicks off with Captain Jake heading to his proven inshore spots where the fish are biting. We're talking about those productive grass flats, oyster bars, and structure areas where Mangrove Snapper, Black Drum, and Redfish like to hang out. The fishing portion runs a few hours, giving everyone in your group of up to four anglers plenty of chances to get their lines wet and hopefully put some keeper fish in the cooler. After working the productive waters, we'll cruise over to Crab Island – that world-class sandbar destination that's become the stuff of legends around here. The water clarity at Crab Island is something you have to see to believe, shifting from the typical Gulf green to an almost tropical blue that makes for perfect swimming conditions. Your captain knows exactly when and where to position the boat for the best experience at both stops.
Captain Jake comes prepared with all the gear you'll need for a successful inshore fishing session. We're talking medium-action spinning rods paired with quality reels spooled with the right line weight for our target species. The tackle box is loaded with proven baits – live shrimp, cut bait, and artificial lures that have been putting fish in the boat around these waters for years. Depending on what's biting and where we're fishing, you might be bottom fishing around structure for those tasty Mangrove Snapper, or working the grass flats with lighter tackle for Redfish and Summer Flounder. The beauty of inshore fishing in Destin is the variety – one cast you might hook into a hard-fighting Black Drum, the next could be a Blacktip Shark that'll test your drag system. Captain Jake will walk you through the techniques and make sure everyone onboard knows how to work their bait properly, whether you're a seasoned angler or picking up a rod for the first time.
Grey Snapper, also known as Mangrove Snapper around these parts, are hands-down one of the most popular targets on our inshore trips. These scrappy fighters typically run 12-16 inches and are notorious for their quick strikes and powerful runs toward structure. They're most active during the warmer months and are absolutely delicious on the dinner table. What makes them so exciting is their willingness to bite – but don't let that fool you into thinking they're easy. These fish have earned their reputation for being picky about bait presentation.
Black Drum are the bulldogs of the inshore waters, and when you hook into a good one, you'll know it immediately. These fish can range from smaller "puppy drum" around 14-20 inches up to massive bulls that'll test every component of your tackle. They're bottom feeders that love to hang around oyster bars and grass flats, making them perfect targets for our inshore fishing style. Spring and fall are prime time for Black Drum, and they're known for their powerful, stubborn fights that keep your rod bent and your arms working.
Summer Flounder are the masters of disguise in our local waters, lying flat on sandy bottoms waiting to ambush unsuspecting prey. These flatfish are prized for their delicate, white meat and can grow quite large – a good flounder around here might stretch 18-24 inches. They're most active during the summer months, as their name suggests, and require a bit more finesse to catch consistently. The thrill comes from feeling that subtle tap on your line, then setting the hook into what might be your best dinner fish of the trip.
Redfish are arguably the most sought-after species in our inshore waters, and for good reason. These copper-colored fighters are known for their aggressive strikes and powerful runs, especially when hooked in shallow water. They typically range from 20-30 inches around here, with that distinctive black spot near their tail making them easy to identify. Redfish are active year-round in Destin, though they really turn on during the cooler months. What gets anglers excited is their fighting ability – they'll make multiple runs and use their broad sides to leverage against your drag.
Blacktip Sharks add that extra element of excitement to any inshore trip. These sleek predators are commonly found in our area, especially during the warmer months, and they're absolute rockets when hooked. Most Blacktips we encounter run 3-5 feet long and are known for their spectacular jumps and blistering runs. They're catch-and-release fish that provide some of the most heart-pounding action you'll find in our local waters. When Captain Jake sees the telltale signs of sharks in the area, he'll often switch up the tackle and techniques to give everyone a shot at hooking into one of these amazing fish.
This customer favorite combo trip fills up quickly, especially during peak season when both the fishing and Crab Island are at their best. With space for just four guests, you're getting a personalized experience that bigger charter boats simply can't match. Captain Jake's local knowledge and years of experience fishing these waters mean you're in good hands whether you're trying to put dinner on the table or just looking for a fun day with family and friends. The convenience of combining world-class inshore fishing with the renowned Crab Island experience
Captain Jake's 2017 Parker center console is built for the perfect Destin combo trip. This 22-footer cuts through emerald waters at 26 knots with its reliable 150HP Yamaha, getting you to the fishing spots fast and to Crab Island for that post-fishing swim. The wireless trolling motor keeps things quiet when you're working the shallows for redfish and snapper, while the fish finder helps locate those holding spots where the mangrove snapper hang out. With room for up to 4 anglers, there's plenty of deck space to cast without tangling lines. The onboard GPS keeps you on course between fishing holes and that famous sandbar, plus there's a head for convenience during longer outings. Built tough for inshore work but smooth enough for a relaxing float at Crab Island - it's the ideal boat for mixing serious fishing with some fun in the sun.
Pogonias CromisBlack Drum are the heavyweights of the drum family, and around Destin they put up a serious fight. Most fish we catch run 5-15 pounds, but don't be surprised if you hook into a 30+ pounder. They love oyster beds, muddy flats, and areas with good current flow. Spring is prime time when they school up for spawning - that's when you'll have your best shot at multiple hookups. These fish are bottom feeders with powerful jaws built for crushing shellfish. The smaller ones make great table fare, but the big bruisers are better released since the meat gets tough. Here's a local trick: use fresh crab for bait instead of shrimp - it stays on the hook better and catfish won't steal it as much.
Carcharhinus LimbatusBlacktip Sharks are pure adrenaline on a line. These sleek predators average 4-5 feet around Destin but can reach 8+ feet. They're famous for their acrobatic jumps - sometimes launching 20 feet out of the water when hooked. You'll find them in 30-100 feet of water near reefs and drop-offs, especially during warmer months. What guests love is the explosive fight and spectacular aerial shows. They're also pretty social, so where you catch one, there's usually more around. We typically catch and release these beauties. The key to success is heavy tackle - 20-30 pound braided line minimum - and oily baits like mackerel or herring. Start chumming early to bring them in close, then be ready for action when they show up.
Lutjanus GriseusGrey Snapper, also called Mangrove Snapper, are one of our most reliable targets around Destin. These copper-colored fish typically run 1-3 pounds inshore, though you might hook into something bigger near deeper structure. They love hanging around docks, piers, and rocky bottom where they can ambush prey. Best fishing happens at dawn, dusk, or night since they're naturally nocturnal feeders. What makes them special is their excellent table fare - white, flaky meat that's hard to beat. They're also pretty smart, so you need to be patient. My go-to tip: use live shrimp hooked through the tail, let it sink to the bottom, then reel up just enough to stay off the rocks. Keep it still - too much movement spooks them every time.
Sciaenops OcellatusRedfish are hands down one of the most popular targets on our combo trips. These copper-colored fighters typically run 18-27 inches in our shallow waters and are famous for that distinctive black spot near the tail. You'll find them cruising grass flats, oyster bars, and around structure in just 1-4 feet of water. They're active year-round here in Destin, but spring and fall offer the best action when they school up. What makes them special is their aggressive strikes and strong runs - plus they're great eating with mild, sweet meat. They'll hit topwater lures, live shrimp, or cut bait. My favorite trick: look for nervous water or tailing fish in the shallows. Cast ahead of where they're moving and work your bait slowly back to them.
Paralichthys DentatusSummer Flounder are the chameleons of our local waters - these flatfish can change color to match whatever bottom they're lying on. They're ambush predators that bury themselves in sand waiting for baitfish to swim by. Most run 15-20 inches, but the big females can hit 5+ pounds and make for great eating. You'll find them on sandy bottoms near structure, typically in 10-30 feet of water. Fall months are prime time when they're actively feeding before moving offshore. What guests love is how they fight differently than other fish - more of a bulldogging pull than jumping around. The meat is excellent, white and flaky. Pro tip: when you feel a bite, give them a few seconds before setting the hook. They grab bait sideways and need time to turn it around.
Destin