Hogfish

Destin, Florida, offers a unique opportunity to target Hogfish, a prized reef fish known for its delicious flavor. Unlike many locations where Hogfish are only accessible by long offshore trips, Destin's proximity to productive reefs and wrecks means you can often find them in relatively shallow waters, sometimes even within a few miles of shore. The best time to target Hogfish is during the cooler months, from late fall through early spring, when they tend to congregate in larger numbers. Look for rocky bottom structure and areas with abundant sea fans and sponges. A key tip is to use live shrimp on a jig head or a knocker rig, presenting it right on the bottom. Be patient, as Hogfish are notorious bait stealers. Access to these fishing grounds is readily available through numerous charter boats operating out of Destin Harbor, or via your own boat if you're familiar with the area. Keep in mind that Hogfish have specific size and bag limits, so check the current regulations before heading out.