November Fishing in Destin Florida: What’s Biting?

As the fall season settles in, anglers in Destin, Florida are still treated to fantastic fishing opportunities. November brings a unique blend of fish species, making it an exciting time for fishing enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a novice looking for an unforgettable fishing experience, November offers a chance to reel in some impressive catches. In this blog post, we’ll explore what’s biting in November in the waters off Destin, Florida.

Red Snapper:

November marks the last month of the fall red snapper season in Destin. These prized game fish are known for their aggressive strikes and delicious fillets. Red snapper can be found near reefs, wrecks, and artificial structures. Anglers can target them using various methods such as bottom fishing with live bait or artificial lures. Catching a trophy-sized red snapper is a thrilling achievement and a highlight of any fishing trip.

Grouper:

November is an excellent time to target grouper species in Destin’s waters. Gag grouper and red grouper are commonly found during this time of year. These bottom-dwelling fish prefer rocky structures, ledges, and offshore reefs. Anglers can use live bait or jigs to entice these powerful fish to bite. Grouper fishing requires patience and skill, but the rewards are well worth the effort.

Amberjack:

Amberjack are highly sought after for their impressive size and hard-fighting nature. November offers a great opportunity to target these powerful fish. They can be found around offshore wrecks, reefs, and artificial structures. Amberjack have a voracious appetite and readily strike live bait or vertical jigs. Anglers should be prepared for an exhilarating battle when hooking into an amberjack.

King Mackerel:

November is considered prime time for king mackerel fishing in Destin. These fast-swimming predators are known for their acrobatic leaps and blistering runs. King mackerel can be found nearshore and offshore, often around bait schools and structures. Trolling with live bait or artificial lures is an effective technique for enticing these aggressive fish. Catching a “smoker” king mackerel, weighing over 30 pounds, is a thrilling accomplishment.

Triggerfish:

November also presents a great opportunity to target triggerfish. These colorful and tasty fish can be found around reefs, wrecks, and hard-bottom areas. Triggerfish are known for their cautious nature, requiring anglers to use small hooks and finesse techniques. Live or cut bait, such as shrimp or squid, can be effective in enticing these fish to bite. Triggerfish provide excellent table fare and are a favorite among many anglers.

Sheepshead:

November is an excellent time to target sheepshead. These fish are known for their distinctive black and white striped appearance and strong, nibbling bites. Sheepshead can be found around structures such as docks, bridges, and jetties. They have a fondness for crustaceans, particularly fiddler crabs and shrimp. Anglers often use small hooks and a bit of finesse to hook these crafty fish. Sheepshead provide great sport and are also delicious on the dinner table.


November offers a diverse range of fish species to target in the waters off Destin, Florida. From red snapper and grouper to amberjack, king mackerel, and triggerfish, anglers have plenty of exciting options to choose from. Whether you prefer bottom fishing, trolling, or jigging, there are various techniques to target these game fish successfully. Remember to check local regulations and fishing seasons before planning your trip. With the right equipment, a knowledgeable captain, and a bit of luck, November can provide memorable fishing experiences and the opportunity to reel in some impressive catches. So grab your fishing gear, book a trip with Reel Legend Fishing Charters, and get ready for an unforgettable November fishing adventure in Destin, Florida.