Charter Fishing Destin with Captain Phillip
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Offshore trolling and bottom fishing targeting red snapper and mackerelCaptain Phillip provides expert guidance aboard Charter Boat Back Down 2Accommodates up to 11 guests with professional equipment included
Captain Phillip knows these Destin waters like the back of his hand, and when you step aboard Charter Boat Back Down 2, you're getting more than just a fishing trip – you're getting decades of local knowledge and a passion for putting clients on fish. This isn't your typical tourist charter where you hope for the best. Phillip runs a tight ship, literally and figuratively, with top-tier equipment and the kind of instincts that come from spending half your life reading currents, structure, and fish behavior in the Gulf.
Your day starts early because that's when the fish bite best, and Captain Phillip doesn't waste time getting you to the productive spots. The Back Down 2 handles up to 11 anglers comfortably, so whether you're bringing the whole family or a crew of serious fishermen, there's room for everyone to have their shot at some world-class fishing. You'll be targeting both pelagic species through trolling and bottom dwellers using proven techniques that produce consistent results in these fertile Gulf waters. The boat's equipped with quality tackle, but if you've got lucky rods or preferred setups, Phillip's happy to work with what makes you comfortable. Don't expect hand-holding if you're experienced, but newer anglers will appreciate his patient approach to teaching proper techniques without making anyone feel like a rookie.
Captain Phillip runs a combination trip that maximizes your chances by hitting different zones and using varied approaches. The trolling portion targets fast-moving predators using a spread of lures and baits designed to mimic the baitfish these species hammer throughout the season. You'll see everything from diving plugs to ballyhoo rigs, and Phillip adjusts the spread based on current conditions and what's been producing. When it's time to work the bottom, you're looking at quality structure where snapper and other reef species congregate. The captain uses both natural baits and jigs depending on what the fish want that day, and he's not stubborn about switching tactics when something isn't working. The electronics on the Back Down 2 help locate fish and structure, but it's Phillip's experience reading the signs that puts you on the better bites consistently.
King mackerel are the speed demons of this fishery, and Destin's waters offer some of the most consistent king fishing on the Gulf Coast. These silver bullets typically run 15-40 pounds, with occasional giants pushing 50-plus during peak season from spring through fall. They're ambush predators that slam trolled baits with authority, and once hooked, they'll test your drag system with blistering runs and acrobatic jumps. What makes kings special is their unpredictability – you never know if the next strike will be a schoolie or a smoker that'll have you backing down on the fish.
Red snapper represent the holy grail of bottom fishing, and these Gulf waters produce some genuine doormat-sized fish during the regulated seasons. A quality red snapper runs 8-15 pounds on average, but 20-pounders aren't unusual when you're fishing the right spots with an experienced captain. They're structure-oriented fish with excellent eyesight and a cautious nature that makes them challenging to fool consistently. When you hook into a good red, expect a strong initial run toward the bottom followed by a bulldogging fight that'll put a serious bend in your rod. The eating quality is legendary, and there's something deeply satisfying about icing down a limit of these beautiful fish.
Spanish mackerel provide fast action and are particularly popular with families because they bite aggressively and fight hard for their size. These smaller cousins of the king mackerel typically run 2-4 pounds but make up for size with sheer numbers and willingness to bite. They're excellent table fare when prepared fresh, and their consistent availability makes them a reliable backup when other species are being finicky. Captain Phillip often uses Spanish mackerel action to keep kids engaged while working toward bigger target species.
Pacific bonito bring West Coast flavor to Gulf fishing, and these torpedo-shaped fighters punch well above their weight class. They school heavily during certain times of year and provide arm-burning action on lighter tackle. Bonito are notorious for their speed and endurance, often making multiple long runs before you can get them to the boat. They're also excellent bait for larger predators, so don't be surprised if Phillip recommends keeping a few lively ones in the well for targeting bigger game.
Yellow sea chub might not win beauty contests, but they're scrappy fighters that often surprise anglers with their determination. These bottom dwellers are opportunistic feeders that respond well to both natural baits and jigs. While they're not typically the main target, they're fun to catch and can provide steady action when other species are being difficult. Local anglers appreciate them for their fighting spirit and the fact that they often indicate you're fishing productive bottom.
Charter Boat Back Down 2 with Captain Phillip offers the kind of authentic Destin fishing experience that keeps anglers coming back season after season. You're not just buying a fishing trip – you're investing in local expertise, quality equipment, and the chance to target multiple species using time-tested techniques. Whether you're a serious angler looking to add Gulf species to your list or a family wanting to create lasting memories on the water, this charter delivers the goods. Captain Phillip's reputation speaks for itself, and his commitment to putting clients on fish shows in every trip. Don't wait until peak season to book your spot – the best dates fill up fast, and you'll want to secure your chance at some of the Gulf's finest fishing action.
The Charter Boat Back Down 2 is your ticket to serious offshore fishing in Destin's waters. This 57-foot sport fishing machine runs on twin 600HP Detroit Diesel engines that'll get you and 10 other anglers out to where the big fish bite. Captain Phillip knows these Gulf waters like the back of his hand and has the gear to prove it - fish finder, GPS, and radar to track down red snapper, king mackerel, and whatever else is running. The boat's got everything you need for a full day on the water: air conditioning when it gets hot, a full kitchen and fridge for your catch, plus a comfortable bed if someone needs a break between bites. Whether you're trolling for kings or dropping lines for bottom fish, this restored 1989 vessel handles the Gulf swells like a champ while keeping everyone comfortable. The flybridge gives you perfect views of the action, and with an icebox on deck, your drinks stay cold while you're reeling in dinner.
Scomberomorus CavallaKing mackerel are the speed demons of the Gulf, averaging 30 pounds but capable of hitting 90+ pounds. These silver rockets with olive backs cruise 40-150 feet deep around structure and drop-offs. Peak season runs spring through fall when water temps hit 68-84°F. What makes kings special is their blistering runs - they'll peel line off your reel faster than almost any fish out here. The meat is rich and flaky, perfect for the grill. Sharp teeth mean you need wire leaders, but here's the trick: rig two hooks on your leader since kings love to bite the back half of live bait. When one hits, hang on tight - they're famous for their drag-screaming runs toward the bottom.
Sarda LineolataBonito are scrappy fighters that punch way above their weight class, typically running 15-25 pounds but bringing serious attitude to every hookup. These tuna-shaped fish with dark slanted stripes love the surface waters from June through November. You'll find schools working bait near the surface, often with birds diving overhead - that's your cue to get lines in the water. What guests love is their non-stop fight and the way they school up for multiple hookups. They're not the best table fare, but they make great bait for bigger fish. Pro tip: when you find a school, don't run your boat through it. Drift to the edge and cast spoons or feathers - they spook easily but bite aggressively when you don't crowd them.
Lutjanus CampechanusRed snapper are the crown jewel of Gulf bottom fishing, typically running 5-15 pounds with occasional monsters pushing 30+. These deep red beauties live around hard bottom and structure in 60-200 feet during our season. What makes snapper fishing special is the anticipation - when that rod tip loads up, you know you've got something good. The meat is absolutely top-tier, sweet and flaky. They're smart fish that require finesse - light leaders and fresh bait are key. Peak bite happens during our federal season, typically summer months. Pro tip: when you hook one, keep steady pressure and get them up quick. They'll try to cut you off in the structure, and once one gets spooked, the whole school can shut down for a while.
Scomberomorus MaculatusSpanish mackerel are perfect starter fish for kids and beginners, typically weighing 2-6 pounds but making up for size with pure speed. These silver bullets with yellow spots cruise near the surface around piers, jetties, and nearshore structure. Spring through fall gives you the best action, especially when baitfish are thick. What guests love is how willing they are to bite and their acrobatic fights - lots of jumps and line-peeling runs. The meat is excellent grilled or smoked with a mild, flaky texture. They school heavily, so when you find one, there's usually more. Local secret: use small spoons or jigs and keep them moving fast. Spanish macs are aggressive but they want that bait moving - dead stick it and they'll ignore it completely.
Kyphosus IncisorYellow sea chubs are fun little fighters that show up around rocky bottoms and coral reefs in 15-35 foot depths. Most run 15-18 inches with distinctive blue and yellow stripes along their sides. They're not going to win any table fare contests - the meat tends to be mushy and bland - but kids love catching them because they bite readily and put up a decent scrap for their size. Spring through fall gives you the best action when they're most active around structure. These guys will eat just about anything, but small pieces of fresh cut bait work best on tiny hooks. Local trick: toss out some bread crumbs as chum to bring them up from the rocks. Once they start feeding, you can catch them one after another.
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