Northwest Florida Fishing Report

In this episode of the Northwest Florida Fishing Report, host Joe Baya is joined by Captain Harris Scruggs of Triple B Charters and Captain Justin Lee of Panama City Inshore to deliver the latest insights on Panama City fishing, inshore and offshore tactics, and fall fishing strategies along the Gulf Coast. The captains break down how to target king mackerel, Spanish mackerel, sailfish, mahi, and more, sharing expert advice on live bait management, live chumming, and adapting to changing wind and weather conditions. Learn the best fishing spots, bait storage tips, and how to maximize your catch during the peak fall migration. Whether you're a seasoned angler or planning your next fishing charter, this episode is packed with high-impact fishing tips and Gulf Coast fishing know-how.   Sponsors Fishbites Dixie Supply and Baker Metal Killerdock Test Calibration Coastal Connection EXP Realty Great Days Outdoors Bucks Island Marine AFTCO Sea Tow Southeastern Pond Management Admiral Shellfish

Join host Joe Baya for the latest Northwest Florida Fishing Report, featuring expert insights from Tom Hilton of Hilton's Real Time Navigator, Captain Evan Wheeler, and surf fishing specialist Justin Reed. This episode covers the hottest inshore, offshore, and surf fishing action from Pensacola to Panama City and Destin. Learn about current fishing conditions, including water temperature, salinity, and bait movement, plus top techniques for targeting pompano, redfish, trout, snook, and more. Discover how to adapt to the fall transition period, find productive fishing spots, and maximize your catch with proven tips from local captains. Whether you're after big redfish, schooling trout, or surfside pompano, this episode delivers the essential fishing information you need for success along the Emerald Coast.    Sponsors Fishbites Dixie Supply and Baker Metal Killerdock Test Calibration Coastal Connection EXP Realty Great Days Outdoors Bucks Island Marine AFTCO Sea Tow Southeastern Pond Management Admiral Shellfish

In this episode of the Northwest Florida Fishing Report, host Joe Baya and co-host Butch Thierry dive deep into a topic every boat owner needs to understand: the critical differences between boat towing and salvage, and how to ensure you're truly covered when the unexpected happens on the water. Joe and Butch are joined by Captain Joseph Frohnhofer III, CEO of Sea Tow Services International, who brings decades of maritime experience and industry insight to the conversation. Captain Frohnhofer breaks down what "salvage" really means, how it differs from a standard tow, and why understanding your insurance policy's fine print can save you from costly surprises. The discussion covers real-world scenarios where boaters thought they were protected—only to find out the hard way that insurance or towing memberships didn't cover salvage situations. Captain Frohnhofer shares practical advice on how to review your policy, ask the right questions of your insurance provider, and prepare your boat ahead of storm season to minimize risk. Listeners will also hear personal stories from the hosts and guest, including close calls on the water, lessons learned from storms, and tips for creating a solid storm plan. The episode wraps up with actionable steps every boater can take to protect their vessel, their wallet, and the environment. Whether you're a seasoned captain or a weekend warrior, this episode is packed with expert guidance, cautionary tales, and essential information to help you navigate the complexities of boat ownership and stay prepared for whatever the Gulf throws your way. Tune in and make sure you're ready for the next time you hit the water!   Sponsors Fishbites Dixie Supply and Baker Metal Killerdock Test Calibration Coastal Connection EXP Realty Great Days Outdoors Bucks Island Marine AFTCO Sea Tow Southeastern Pond Management Admiral Shellfish

In this episode of the Northwest Florida Fishing Report, host Joe Baya brings you the latest inshore, offshore, and kayak fishing action from Pensacola to Panama City, featuring expert guests and timely tips for fall fishing. Joe kicks things off with Captain Blake Nelson, who breaks down the unique characteristics of the Choctawhatchee Bay system and shares his approach to finding productive flats, targeting redfish and trout, and adapting tactics for both beginners and experienced anglers. Blake offers insights on reading water, bait selection, and how seasonal changes affect fish behavior, plus advice for families and technical anglers alike. Next, Captain Tyler Massey joins the show to deliver an offshore report from the Pensacola area. Tyler discusses the current pelagic bite, including blackfin tuna, mahi mahi, sailfish, and wahoo, and explains his preferred techniques for bump trolling live baits, setting up trolling spreads, and targeting bottom species like vermillion snapper, triggerfish, and amberjack. He also shares gear recommendations and strategies for both state and federal waters as the seasons shift. Rounding out the episode, kayak fishing specialist Brandon Barton shares why September is prime time for off-the-beach action, with a surge in sailfish, mahi, and blackfin tuna catches. Brandon details his rigging setups for both king mackerel and sailfish, offers tips for trolling from a kayak, and explains how to use local reports, water quality charts, and bait concentrations to pick the best launch spots. He also covers safe handling and release techniques for big game fish from a kayak. Whether you're fishing from the shore, a small boat, or a kayak, this episode is packed with actionable tips, expert strategies, and local knowledge to help you make the most of your time on the water this fall. Tune in for a comprehensive look at what's biting and how to maximize your success along the Emerald Coast!   Sponsors Fishbites Dixie Supply and Baker Metal Killerdock Test Calibration Coastal Connection EXP Realty Great Days Outdoors Bucks Island Marine AFTCO Sea Tow Southeastern Pond Management Admiral Shellfish

In this episode of the Northwest Florida Fishing Report, host Joe Baya is joined by a lineup of expert anglers to deliver the latest inshore and offshore action from Pensacola to Panama City. Joe kicks things off with surf fishing specialist Blake Hunter of https://www.reel30a.com/, who shares his approach to targeting redfish and pompano from the beach, including stealth tactics, lure selection, and how to spot and present baits to cruising fish. Blake also discusses setting achievable fishing goals and adapting to changing conditions like wind, tides, and persistent June grass. Next, Captain Delynn Sigler joins the show to break down offshore strategies for gag grouper and scamp, revealing how he plans his trips, chooses spots, and adapts to the ever-changing patterns of these elusive fish. Delynn offers practical advice on bait selection, rigging, and the importance of flexibility when the bite gets tough, along with stories from the water that highlight the unpredictability and excitement of Gulf fishing. Rounding out the episode, Captain Justin Leake with https://panamacityinshore.com/ provides a hybrid report from the Panama City area, focusing on bait migrations, nearshore opportunities for blackfin tuna,Sailfish, and Wahoo and how seasonal changes in water temperature and clarity affect fishing success. Whether you're stalking reds in the surf, chasing grouper offshore, or looking to maximize your time on the water, this episode is packed with actionable tips, expert insights, and stories that will inspire anglers of all levels. Tune in for a comprehensive look at what's biting and how to make the most of your next trip on the Gulf Coast!   Sponsors Fishbites Dixie Supply and Baker Metal Killerdock Test Calibration Coastal Connection EXP Realty Great Days Outdoors Bucks Island Marine AFTCO Sea Tow Southeastern Pond Management Admiral Shellfish

In this episode of the Northwest Florida Fishing Report, Joe Baya and Butch Theory dive deep into the art of planning and executing a successful 48-hour offshore fishing adventure in the Gulf. Drawing on decades of experience, they break down every aspect of organizing an overnight tripfrom picking the right date and assembling your crew, to calculating the true cost per person, including charter, tip, fish cleaning, and food. Joe and Butch share their favorite memories from past trips, recounting epic swordfish battles, surprise encounters with giant manta rays and whale sharks, and the camaraderie that forms on the open water. They offer practical advice on meal prep, gear essentials, and the importance of having a "quarterback" to handle logistics, ensuring everyone can relax and focus on fishing. The episode also covers safety musts, like keeping a proper watch and having backup crew, and explores options for solo anglers or small groups through walk-on trips. Whether you're a seasoned offshore angler or planning your first overnight adventure, this episode is packed with actionable tips, hard-earned lessons, and stories that will inspire you to make memories on the Gulf. Tune in for a comprehensive guide to maximizing fun, safety, and success on your next offshore fishing trip!   Sponsors Fishbites Dixie Supply and Baker Metal Killerdock Test Calibration Coastal Connection EXP Realty Great Days Outdoors Hilton's Realtime Navigator Bucks Island Marine AFTCO Sea Tow Shoreline Plastics Return Em Right Southeastern Pond Management Pure Flats Admiral Shellfish

This Week's Northwest Florida Fishing Report is Live! The transition to fall is here, and the fishing is heating up! This week, we check in with two local experts to cover the bite from Panama City to Pensacola. First, Captain Harris Scruggs joins the show to break down the fantastic offshore action. With Gag Grouper season in full swing, Harris dives deep into the tactics you need to land these powerful fish, from the best big baits and heavy leaders to the right gear and even how to get a gag out after it's rocked you up. He also covers the fall wahoo bite, discussing trolling speeds, live baiting techniques, and the key depths to find them, along with reports on cobia and king mackerel. Then, we head inshore with Captain Evan Wheeler, who explains why the best thing about September is that "it's not August anymore." The inshore bite is firing up as baitfish push into the estuaries. Evan focuses on the incredible redfish action, sharing how to find and catch them on everything from topwater plugs at sunrise to live bait and soft plastics around deeper structure. He also discusses the changing seasonal patterns, what a "trout sky" means for the bite, and how to follow the bait and birds to stay on the fish. Whether you're heading offshore for one last shot at a gag or want to cash in on the best redfish bite of the year, this episode is loaded with the local knowledge you need for a successful trip.   Sponsors Fishbites Dixie Supply and Baker Metal Killerdock Test Calibration Coastal Connection EXP Realty Great Days Outdoors Hilton's Realtime Navigator Bucks Island Marine AFTCO Sea Tow Shoreline Plastics Return Em Right Southeastern Pond Management Pure Flats Admiral Shellfish

This week, host Joe Baya explores the late summer transition along the Northwest Florida Gulf Coast, bringing you a packed episode of fishing insights, local knowledge, and hands-on strategies for anglers and families alike.  In "Late Summer Bounty: Fall Fishing Tactics, Tech on the Water, and Gulf Coast Living," Joe is joined by surf fishing expert Justin Reed, offshore technology innovator Tom Hilton, and inshore guide Captain Blake Nelson. Together, they break down what's happening as August gives way to September—from the explosion of bait in the bays and surf to the latest trends in offshore marlin and inshore redfish action. Learn how to adapt your approach as the seasons shift: discover why sand fleas are the hot bait for pompano, how to maximize your success with both simple and high-tech tactics, and what to look for when fishing bridges, flats, and the open Gulf. The episode also dives into the impact of technology on finding fish, the importance of confidence and pattern recognition, and how to keep fishing fun and accessible for the whole family. Plus, Joe and his guests discuss the evolving real estate market along the Gulf Coast, sharing tips for anglers looking to find their own slice of waterfront paradise. Whether you're a seasoned offshore angler, a surf fishing enthusiast, or just looking to get your kids hooked on fishing, this episode is your guide to making the most of late summer and gearing up for a fantastic fall on the water. Tune in for expert advice, local stories, and the inspiration you need to catch more fish and enjoy the Gulf Coast lifestyle!   Sponsors Fishbites Dixie Supply and Baker Metal Killerdock Test Calibration Coastal Connection EXP Realty Great Days Outdoors Hilton's Realtime Navigator Bucks Island Marine AFTCO Sea Tow Shoreline Plastics Return Em Right Southeastern Pond Management Pure Flats Admiral Shellfish

This week, host Joe Baya dives deep into the late summer fishing scene along the Gulf Coast, bringing you expert insights and hands-on tactics for every angler. In "Late Summer Tactics: Offshore Marlin, Inshore Kings & Kayak Fishing Solutions," Joe is joined by top guides Captain Adam Peoples and Brandon Barton, who share their proven strategies for making the most of August's unique conditions. Whether you're chasing White Marlin and sailfish offshore, trolling for king mackerel, or exploring inshore flats from a kayak, this episode is packed with actionable advice. Learn how to read the water, select the right gear, and adapt your approach to beat the heat, floating grass, and changing bait patterns. Discover why late summer can offer some of the year's best fishing—if you know how to adjust. From technical tips on sonar and trolling spreads to family-friendly tactics that keep everyone engaged, our guests break down what it takes to turn tough days into memorable catches. We cover everything from live bait rigging and lure selection to the best ways to keep your spread clean and your hooks sharp. If you're ready to level up your late summer fishing game, this episode is your go-to guide for success on the Gulf Coast. Tune in and get ready to catch more fish, learn new techniques, and make the most of every trip!   Sponsors Fishbites Dixie Supply and Baker Metal Killerdock Test Calibration Coastal Connection EXP Realty Great Days Outdoors Hilton's Realtime Navigator Bucks Island Marine AFTCO Sea Tow Shoreline Plastics Return Em Right Southeastern Pond Management Pure Flats Admiral Shellfish

This week, we're trading the dog days of summer for a late-season masterclass on the Gulf Coast! Join host Joe Baya as he taps into the minds of three of the region's top guides—Captain Justin Leak, surf fishing ace Blake Hunter, and Captain Evan Wheeler. Forget the slow summer bite; we're learning the local secrets and high-tech tactics to make every trip a success. The guides break down why late-season fishing offers some of the year's best action if you know how to adapt. We explore how to make any outing family-friendly, turning tough days into unforgettable memories for anglers of all ages. From inshore flats to the surf, discover how these pros find fish when everyone else has packed it in, proving that the heat of summer can deliver the hottest fishing. Get the inside scoop from the experts themselves on how they stay ahead of the game. We cover all the strategies you need: using cutting-edge sonar to scout new spots, reading the wind and tides to your advantage, and choosing the right bait when fish get finicky. This is your complete playbook for beating the challenges of June grass, changing weather patterns, and crowded waters. If you're looking for the ultimate guide to maximize your time on the water, this episode is your roadmap to success. Tune in to learn from the best, and get ready to catch more fish and have more fun on your next Gulf Coast adventure!   Sponsors Fishbites Dixie Supply and Baker Metal Killerdock Test Calibration Coastal Connection EXP Realty Great Days Outdoors Hilton's Realtime Navigator Bucks Island Marine AFTCO Sea Tow Shoreline Plastics Return Em Right Southeastern Pond Management Pure Flats Admiral Shellfish

This week, we're trading the casting rod for a bow and the saltwater flats for the heartland's moonlit waters! Join us as we go on the road to Kentucky for a full-throttle bowfishing adventure with CT Meyer, the expert guide and founder of The Obsession Outdoors . Forget what you know about traditional angling—we're chasing invasive carp under the stars, and the action is non-stop. CT breaks down why this electrifying sport is one of the most accessible and exciting adventures on the water, perfect for everyone from seasoned pros to complete beginners. We explore why bowfishing is an unbeatable experience for father-son trips, corporate team-building, and bachelor parties, and how the team at The Obsession Outdoors makes every guest feel like a seasoned hunter. Plus, we dive into the conservation story and the vital role anglers play in managing these invasive species. Get the inside story from CT himself on how his "obsession" began and what sets his premier lodge and guide service apart. We cover all the logistics you need to make this trip a reality, including the best time of year to go, what to pack (and what to leave at home), and how you can book your own trip . If you're looking for a unique adventure that combines the thrill of the hunt with the fun of fishing, this episode is your complete roadmap. Tune in, get ready to be hooked, and follow their latest catches on Instagram !   Sponsors Fishbites Dixie Supply and Baker Metal Killerdock Test Calibration Coastal Connection EXP Realty Great Days Outdoors Hilton's Realtime Navigator Bucks Island Marine AFTCO Sea Tow Shoreline Plastics Return Em Right Southeastern Pond Management Pure Flats Admiral Shellfish

This Week's Northwest Florida Fishing Report is Live! We've got a special roundtable episode this week, bringing in local experts Angelo De Paola, Joseph Baya, and Blake Nelson to break down all things inshore fishing. The big story right now is the massive amount of "greenies" (greenback baitfish) stacked up on the flats and in the passes, and the gamefish are in a feeding frenzy. The guys focus on the incredible tarpon bite, with migrating schools of silver kings showing up in big numbers to crash the bait pods along the beaches. They share key insights on tactics, tides, and the best areas to find them. Plus, they cover the fantastic action for redfish and snook that are taking full advantage of the bait-rich environment. Also, Captain Adam Peebles of One Shot Charters and Tom Hilton team up to break down how offshore anglers can use satellite data to improve their odds of success. They discuss the importance of analyzing altimetry, salinity, sea surface temperature, and chlorophyll to identify productive areas—especially when blue water isn't in play. Tom explains how reverse engineering past catches can reveal patterns, while Adam shares real-world examples of how tools like Hilton's Realtime Navigator and Sat2Nav help him stay dialed in, even during cloudy conditions or slow current scenarios. Whether you're looking for one last shot at a tarpon or want to cash in on the best inshore bite of the summer, this episode has everything you need for a successful weekend on the water.   Sponsors Fishbites Dixie Supply and Baker Metal Killerdock Test Calibration Coastal Connection EXP Realty Great Days Outdoors Hilton's Realtime Navigator Bucks Island Marine AFTCO Sea Tow Shoreline Plastics Return Em Right Southeastern Pond Management Pure Flats Admiral Shellfish

This Week's Northwest Florida Fishing Report is Live! Justin Reed brings us the surf fishing report, where the hot bite has been whiting in the holes close to shore. The key to success? Finding beach stretches clear of June grass. While pompano have been hit-or-miss, there are still Spanish, ladyfish, and even a few blues around for those willing to scout. Offshore, Tyler Massey of Hot Spots Charters brings us the latest offshore report—and it's bucking the usual summer trend. The bite is better now than it was earlier in the season. Is it a post-spawn surge, bait scarcity, or just new fish moving in? Tune in to find out, along with updates on mahi, wahoo, billfish, and other bluewater opportunities.   Sponsors Fishbites Dixie Supply and Baker Metal Killerdock Test Calibration Coastal Connection EXP Realty Great Days Outdoors Hilton's Realtime Navigator Bucks Island Marine AFTCO Sea Tow Shoreline Plastics Return Em Right Southeastern Pond Management Pure Flats Admiral Shellfish

In this week's Northwest Florida Fishing Report, we cover a range of strategies and conditions from Pensacola to Panama City with updates from seasoned anglers across the region. Brandon Barton from Emerald Waters Kayak Charters opens the show with tactics for targeting speckled trout and redfish during the summer heat—specifically by fishing after dark with artificials around lighted structures. He also breaks down the current challenges of chasing tarpon from a kayak, especially in crowded areas where pressure and full moon conditions have made the bite less consistent. Evan Wheeler, owner at Tall Pines Tight Lines, shares his process for finding productive inshore fishing spots, emphasizing the importance of slowing down and thoroughly working the water column once you're in the right area. He offers great tips for reading structure, recognizing bait patterns, and making every cast count when fish are holding tight. Capt. Scruggs of Triple B Fishing Charters closes things out with an offshore perspective, explaining how increased fishing pressure and the full moon have slowed things down, and why heading farther out or staying out longer can pay off. He also shares actionable tips for locating and targeting Spanish and king mackerel, including how to use the tides to your advantage and make bait adjustments when conditions shift. It's all brought to you whether it's good, bad, or ugly. Be sure to subscribe, rate, and review, and text "NWFFR" to 779-345-2918 for your free AFTCO camo lens cleaner and to join our weekly email list.   Sponsors Fishbites Dixie Supply and Baker Metal Killerdock Test Calibration Coastal Connection EXP Realty Great Days Outdoors Hilton's Realtime Navigator Bucks Island Marine AFTCO Sea Tow Shoreline Plastics Return Em Right Southeastern Pond Management Pure Flats Admiral Shellfish

Dog Days Tactics, Dock Light Tricks, and Tuna on the Move In this week's Northwest Florida Fishing Report, we cover how anglers are adapting to the summer heat from Pensacola to Panama City. Blake Nelson reports from the Destin area with inshore strategies to beat the heat, from dock light trout and redfish after dark to shaded bridge fishing for snapper and Spanish mackerel. He also shares bait tips and fly-lining techniques for catching more fish in the bay. Blake Hunter delivers the surf report, detailing how to work around June grass and target pompano, redfish, and whiting early and late in the day. He explains what to throw for Spanish mackerel in the surf and offers advice on finding clean water, adjusting to changing winds, and making the most of your surf setup during summer crowds. Offshore, Captain Adam Peoples breaks down a "Swiss Army knife" approach to summer fishing, with reports on yellowfin and schoolie tuna, dolphin, wahoo, and swordfish. He shares advice on trolling speeds, bait presentation, and how to locate fish near floating debris or bottom structure. Plus, tips on reading electronics, avoiding shark cut-offs, and how to prepare for changing conditions on the water. It's all brought to you whether it's good, bad, or ugly. Be sure to subscribe, rate, and review, and text "NWFFR" to 779-345-2918 for your free AFTCO camo lens cleaner and to join our weekly email list.   Important Links:   Sponsors Fishbites Dixie Supply and Baker Metal Killerdock Test Calibration Coastal Connection EXP Realty Great Days Outdoors Hilton's Realtime Navigator Bucks Island Marine AFTCO Sea Tow Shoreline Plastics Return Em Right Southeastern Pond Management Pure Flats Admiral Shellfish