The march of beeliners
Mmmmmm March. What a unique month in Destin, Florida, for charter fishing enthusiasts. This time in the Panhandle is characterized by a mix of foggy, brisk mornings, warm afternoons, and unpredictable weather as old man winter slowly retreats. It's typical to experience a week of sunny and 70 degrees followed by periods of cold, gloomy, and windy days, with the cool Gulf waters gradually warming back to their operational temperature. March is the most significant transition month we have during the fishing “season” in Destin.
Fishermen, especially those involved in Destin charter fishing, are emerging from their winter hiatus, and a quiet but noticeable buzz on the docks starts to spread, albeit slightly and subtly. It’s a period that every charter fisherman in the Destin area looks forward to each season, marking a new calendar year full of potential for the upcoming season. The boats, now fresh off dry dock, along with organized and renewed tackle, signal the crews' readiness to embark on new fishing adventures. During March in Destin, anglers can anticipate a robust vermilion snapper bite, as well as a significant run of Spanish mackerel. It's a common sight to see boats performing daisy chaining or executing “the Destin shuffle” just outside the pass, slow trolling for Spanish mackerel before heading offshore—a perfect way to initiate a day of charter fishing, serving as an excellent warm-up for all customers on board.
Additionally, in March, it is common to find a high-quality grade of Beeliners (vermilion snapper) in shallower waters off the coast of Destin. Some of the best Beeliner fishing this month occurs just in 65-70 feet of water. Anglers should look for “mingo clouds” near the natural bottom, a typical feature in Destin's fishing grounds. Shrimp, squid, and cut bait stand out as the top baits for targeting these fish in the area. The most effective rig for catching Beeliners, known locally as a chicken rig, consists of a straight line with 2 or 3 snood lines attached to a bank weight at the bottom, equipped with small circle hooks and 40-50lb tackle, which is quite adequate for these conditions. These fish are not only a delight to catch but also highly prized for their delicious taste, making every Mingo rally a much-anticipated event during charter fishing trips in Destin.
Happy March fishing in Destin, Florida!
“I can do all things through Christ that strengthens me” Phil 4:13.
Captain Preston