Guided Shark Fishing Trip In Destin, Florida
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Halfday shark fishing adventure with experienced guidesCrystalclear waters provide exceptional visibility for shark encountersConservationfocused catch and release maintains healthy shark populations
Looking for a half-day adventure that'll get your heart pumping and test your angling skills against one of the ocean's apex predators? RAD-I-Kal Charters has put together a top-rated shark fishing experience right here in Destin's world-class fishing waters. We're talking about a genuine battle with Atlantic Sharpnose and Bonnethead sharks in some of the clearest waters you'll find along the Emerald Coast. Our experienced captains know exactly where these fish hunt and feed, putting you right in the action for some serious rod-bending encounters. With space for up to 6 anglers, this is perfect for families, groups of friends, or anyone wanting to check shark fishing off their bucket list.
This half-day charter takes you into Destin's prime shark habitat where the Gulf's crystal-clear waters offer visibility that's hard to beat anywhere else along the coast. You'll be fishing the nearshore waters where these predators patrol for baitfish and crustaceans, often in depths ranging from 15 to 40 feet. The captain will position the boat over sandy bottoms and grass flats where sharks love to cruise and hunt. Don't worry about bringing tackle – we've got heavy-duty rods and reels specifically rigged for shark fishing, plus all the terminal tackle you'll need. The atmosphere is relaxed but focused, with plenty of opportunities to learn from seasoned guides who've been targeting these species for years. When a shark takes your bait, you'll feel that distinctive pull and see the line screaming off the reel. The fights are intense but manageable, and our crew will coach you through every step of the battle.
We fish with medium-heavy spinning rods paired with high-capacity reels loaded with 30-40 pound braided line. The rig setup is crucial for shark fishing – we use circle hooks ranging from 6/0 to 8/0 depending on the target species, connected to heavy fluorocarbon leaders that can handle those razor-sharp teeth. Steel leaders aren't always necessary for the smaller inshore sharks we're targeting, but we've got them ready if needed. Bait selection makes all the difference, and we typically use fresh cut pinfish, whiting, or squid strips that put out the scent trail sharks can't resist. The technique is primarily bottom fishing and drift fishing, letting the boat move naturally with the current while keeping baits in the strike zone. You'll learn to read your rod tip for subtle bites versus the aggressive runs that'll bend your rod in half. Our guides will show you proper hook-setting techniques with circle hooks – it's all about steady pressure rather than the sharp hook sets you'd use for other species.
Atlantic Sharpnose Sharks are the bread and butter of Destin's inshore shark fishing scene. These sleek predators typically run 2-4 feet long and pack serious fight for their size. They're most active during warmer months from April through October, with peak action happening in summer when baitfish are thick in the nearshore waters. What makes them so exciting to catch is their aggressive nature and acrobatic fights – they'll make multiple runs and often jump when hooked. Sharpnose sharks have excellent eyesight and will often circle the boat before taking a bait, giving you that heart-stopping moment of anticipation. They feed primarily during moving tides on small fish, shrimp, and crabs, making them perfect targets for our half-day trips.
Bonnethead Sharks offer a completely different fishing experience with their unique shovel-shaped heads and smaller mouths. These fascinating sharks rarely exceed 3 feet in length but make up for size with numbers – you'll often find them in schools during peak season from May through September. Bonnetheads are actually more omnivorous than most sharks, feeding heavily on blue crabs and seagrass, which means they respond well to crab and shrimp baits. Their fights are scrappy and determined, with lots of head-shaking that'll test your drag settings. What really sets bonnetheads apart is their docile nature once brought to the boat, making them perfect for photos before release. They're incredibly common in Destin's grass flats and shallow waters, so your chances of hooking multiple fish during the trip are excellent.
This guided shark fishing adventure delivers everything you want in a Destin fishing charter – consistent action, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to tangle with genuine predators in some of Florida's most beautiful waters. RAD-I-Kal Charters has built their reputation on putting anglers on fish while maintaining the highest standards for conservation and safety. The half-day format is perfect for families with kids or anyone wanting to experience shark fishing without committing to a full day on the water. All sharks are released unharmed, ensuring these amazing predators continue thriving in Destin's ecosystem for future generations of anglers. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to add shark species to your list or a newcomer wanting to try something completely different, this trip delivers memories that'll last long after you head home. Spots fill up fast during peak season, so don't wait – book your shark fishing adventure with RAD-I-Kal Charters today and get ready for some serious action on the Emerald Coast.
This 45-foot Hatteras sportfish is your ticket to some serious shark action in Destin's emerald waters. Built for offshore battles, she's equipped with top-notch fish finders to locate those apex predators lurking below. When the Florida sun gets intense, retreat to the air-conditioned cabin and catch up on the game via onboard TV between bites. The GPS and radar systems ensure we stay on the productive spots, while the VHF radio keeps us connected to other boats reporting shark activity. With space for up to 6 anglers, there's plenty of room to spread out along the gunwales when the action heats up. The onboard facilities include a head, so you can stay comfortable during those longer fights. This proven fish-fighting platform has the power and stability needed to handle whatever the Gulf throws at you, from bull sharks in the shallows to hammerheads cruising the deeper waters off Destin's coast.
Rhizoprionodon TerraenovaeThese little guys are probably the most common sharks you'll tangle with in our Gulf waters. Running 2-4 feet long with distinctive black-tipped fins and small white spots along their sides, they're perfect for first-time shark anglers or anyone wanting consistent action. You'll find them year-round in shallow coastal waters, especially around surf zones and bay mouths. They're scrappy fighters despite their size - that streamlined body cuts through water fast when hooked. What makes them fun is they'll hit almost any bait you throw at them, dead or alive. They're abundant here, so multiple hookups aren't uncommon. Pro tip: bring a landing net and gloves - their skin is rough as sandpaper and those teeth are razor sharp even on smaller sharks.
Sphyrna TiburoThe smallest of the hammerhead family, bonnetheads are unique with their shovel-shaped heads and shy nature. These guys typically run 3-4 feet and travel in schools of 10-15, making for exciting multiple hookups when you find them. They love our shallow bays, estuaries, and nearshore waters, especially during warmer months when they migrate up from southern Florida. What's cool is they're totally harmless - only one recorded human incident ever. They put up a surprisingly tough fight for their size and that odd head shape makes every catch a conversation starter. During fall and winter, they move into our area following warmer water. Here's the secret: cut blue crab in half and thread your circle hook through a leg segment - bonnetheads can't resist fresh crab.
Destin