Fishing Charters in Florida
Browse fishing charters in Florida that can help you catch bigeye tuna.
Island Baby Islamorada
Tavernier, Florida
Flying Thief Charters
Big Pine Key, Florida
Key West Tarpon Fishing with Flying Thief Charters. Let us be your guide to the best Bonefish Spin Fishing, and excellent Flats Fishing in the Florida Keys.
Fat Cat Charters
Big Pine Key, Florida
Sea Glass Excursions
Cudjoe Key, Florida
Sea Glass Excursions offers offshore and inshore fishing, snorkeling, sandbars, sunset cruise, or just a ride, I’m your guide. My Name is Captain Brian and I live in the Lower Florida Keys.
Double O Fishing Charter
Cudjoe Key, Florida
Tarpon Trips
Summerland Key, Florida
Shane Wood Fishing
Summerland Key, Florida
Shane Wood Fly Fishing Guide - Rates and Information. Tarpon, Bonefish, Permit Photo Gallery. Book your fishing charter now.
Stock Island Fishing Charters
Naval Air Station Key West, Florida
Stock Island fishing charters at the entrance to Key West. Many different charters offered for all types of anglers and vacationers.
Captain Eddie Griffiths Charters
Key West, Florida
Dry Tortugas fishing trips with Andy Griffiths charters out of Key West, Florida. Overnight fishing to Fort Jefferson, Dry Tortugas and Marquesas Keys. Enjoy fishing and diving on your private charter, 2 or 3 day fishing charters for snapper, grouper, mahi mahi, wahoo and more. Best reef and wreck fishing available year round in the Florida Keys and west of Key West near the Dry Tortugas National Park.
Captain Bill Lowman Anna Maria Sportfishing
Holmes Beach, Florida
Anna Maria Island Charter Fishing Guide
Destination Fish Charters
Marco Island, Florida
Danny Fabian is one of Southwest Florida's premier backwater and sport fishermen in Naples and Marco Island, Florida. As a professional fishing quide, Danny specializes in fishing in Everglades National Park and focuses on Snook, Grouper, Tarpon, Trout, Redfish.
Captain Rio Adventures
Marco Island, Florida
Go fish with fun catching Charter fishing at its best!
Best Time to Catch Bigeye Tuna
Peak season: April, May, June, July, August. Also good: January, February, March, September, October. Right now in February, activity is good.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Bigeye Tuna
Looking to tangle with a Bigeye Tuna? Destin, Florida, offers a prime jumping-off point into the Gulf of Mexico for deep-sea expeditions targeting these powerful fish. What makes Destin special is its proximity to productive offshore waters, allowing for shorter runs and more fishing time. The best time to target Bigeye here is during the cooler months, typically from late fall through early spring, when they tend to be more active in the upper water column. Focus your efforts around underwater structures, oil rigs, and deepwater canyons. A key tip is to pay attention to water temperature breaks, as Bigeye often congregate where these occur. The Destin Harbor is loaded with charter operations experienced in targeting these fish, making it easy to find a knowledgeable captain. Remember that Bigeye Tuna are incredibly strong, so be prepared for a long and challenging fight. Be sure to check the latest regulations regarding size and bag limits before heading out.
How to Catch Bigeye Tuna
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Bigeye Tuna in Destin.
Bigeye Tuna Fishing Regulations in Florida
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
3 per person or vessel, whichever is less, in the aggregate with other tuna species (excluding Albacore, Skipjack, and Yellowfin).
Size Limit
27-inch curved fork length minimum
License Required
Saltwater fishing license and possibly a Highly Migratory Species (HMS) permit.
Federal regulations and permits may be required. Check current regulations for any updates.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Florida state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Florida
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best bait for Bigeye Tuna in Destin, Florida?
In Destin, many anglers prefer using live bait such as blue runners, cigar minnows, and hardtails for Bigeye Tuna. Trolling with artificial lures like skirted trolling lures and diving plugs can also be very effective.
What time of year is best to target Bigeye Tuna near Destin?
Bigeye Tuna fishing in Destin can be productive year-round, but the late fall and winter months often see increased activity. This is when water temperatures and baitfish migrations can concentrate tuna in the area.
What are the rules for keeping Bigeye Tuna in Florida?
The regulations for Bigeye Tuna in Florida include a bag limit of 3 per person or vessel, whichever is less, in the aggregate with other tuna species (excluding Albacore, Skipjack, and Yellowfin). The minimum size limit is 27 inches curved fork length.
Do I need a special permit to fish for Bigeye Tuna off Destin?
Yes, you will need a Saltwater fishing license to fish in Florida. You may also need a Highly Migratory Species (HMS) permit to target Bigeye Tuna, depending on your vessel and fishing method.
More Bigeye Tuna Fishing in Florida
Other Species to Fish in Destin
Ready to Catch Bigeye Tuna in Destin?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.