Captain Jon proudly earned the titles of 1st and 2nd place Yellowfin Tuna Champion in the 2024 Destin Fishing Rodeo. This prestigious event attracted over 30,000 anglers who competed throughout the month. Our departures are based out of both Santa Rosa Beach / 30A and Destin, Florida, providing flexible options.
One of Captain Jon’s earliest memories involves a giant sailfish mounted on his grandfather’s garage wall, sparking his lifelong passion for pursuing big game fish in the Gulf. He has been navigating boats since he was very young. Growing up fishing and boating on Kentucky Lake provided invaluable early experience. Beyond fishing, Captain Jon boasts more than 25 years of piloting high-speed (go-fast) boats in Poker Runs across the nation. This expertise in handling rapid vessels amid variable sea conditions translates to superior skills on the open water.
With over 45 years of fishing experience, Captain Jon is often asked about his favorite catch. He finds it difficult to choose between hunting Yellowfin Tuna near the oil rigs and daytime swordfish expeditions—fortunately, both are possible in the Destin area.
DESTIN – Known as The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village
Our location in Destin, Florida is no coincidence. The area offers some of the world’s most diverse fishing opportunities. Positioned conveniently close to the rich, deep blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico, Destin provides anglers quick access to prime fishing grounds. Thanks to state-of-the-art high-speed center console boats, we can reach offshore oil rigs off Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi within 12 to 18 hours. You might find yourself fishing alongside boats that left Venice, Louisiana, on the same morning.
The modern equipment at our disposal considerably shrinks the perceived size of the Gulf, enhancing accessibility. Whether you’re an experienced angler or traveling with family members seeking an unforgettable adventure, our crew ensures everyone enjoys a remarkable day on the water.
Tight lines,
Captain Jon
We offer flexible departure points to fit your needs. Captain Jon is recognized for his expertise, accommodating nature, and exceptional service. Whether you’re seasoned or a beginner, our guests consistently report catching ample fish and having a fantastic experience. Our booking team at Captain Experiences handles all the details smoothly. Frequent clients already plan to return during future visits to Rosemary Beach.
Guests often share glowing feedback:
“Captain Jon is a fantastic guide—highly recommended. On my first trip, despite slow fishing, he was determined to make it a memorable experience, and he delivered. We had a blast!”
“Thank you, Ronald, for your kind review. We thoroughly enjoyed fishing with your group and hope to welcome you back soon.”
“Captain Jon provides excellent service with professionalism and insight. He combines education with adventure, making for an enjoyable and top-notch outing.”
“Amazing overall experience. Jon is an outstanding captain—many thanks!”
“Nikolay, we had such a fantastic trip with you and your crew. Thanks for the five-star review! Probably one of the most fun groups I’ve had—thank you all! The deckhand and I haven’t laughed that much in a long time. Looking forward to having you back soon so we can jam to some ‘Southern Polka’ tunes!”
We appreciate every guest who shares their stories and look forward to creating more unforgettable memories on the water.
You can cancel without any fees up to 30 days prior to your scheduled trip and get a refund credited to your account. If you cancel within 30 days of the trip, your deposit will be retained by the guide. Cancellations made on the day of the trip or if you fail to show up will result in the full trip amount being charged to your payment method.
Preparation Tips for Your Fishing Trip
Day of Your Trip
Frequently Asked Questions
What time do we leave?
Departure times vary based on your charter length and daily objectives. Your captain will confirm the pickup time, location, and any special requirements during a call the day before.
Do we get to keep our catch?
Absolutely. We clean your fish right at the dock, and vacuum sealing is available if you want to preserve your catch.
How much should I tip?
A 20% tip is standard. You may add this to your trip charge or tip the captain directly via cash, Venmo, or CashApp.
Should I inform the captain about any health issues?
Yes, the more we know, the better we can ensure your safety and enjoyment on the water.
What should I wear?
Most days, SPF sunshirts and shorts are comfortable. For added protection, long sleeves, an SPF face/neck gaiter, hat, and sunglasses are recommended. We fish rain or shine, so a rain jacket might be necessary—check with your captain beforehand.
What happens if it rains or the weather is bad?
We fish rain or shine, as Florida’s rain showers tend to be brief. If the captain cancels due to unsafe conditions, we’ll do our best to reschedule during your stay. If rescheduling isn’t possible, you’ll receive a trip voucher valid for two years.
Do you participate in fishing tournaments?
Yes! Please inquire if you want to join tournaments. All guests are automatically entered in the Destin Fishing Rodeo during October, which offers daily and overall prizes across categories and includes weigh-ins on the rodeo stage.
Can we extend our trip?
If you’d like to fish longer, notify your captain. Additional fees apply, and extensions depend on schedule availability.
Do I need a fishing license?
All required licenses and permits are included in your trip. We accommodate up to 6 guests per trip.
Where does the trip depart from?
Our main departure dock is at Cessna Landing in Santa Rosa Beach, with pickup services also offered in Destin. Please arrange pickup ahead of time.
Heading to a local favorite spot known as "The Spur," the Desoto Canyon boasts 8 Deepwater Fish Attracting Devices (FADs). These artificial structures are situated 70 to 85 miles offshore in depths ranging from 1,500 to 2,200 feet. They attract a variety of game fish including Tuna, White and Blue Marlin, Mahi Mahi, and Wahoo, making this area a prime location for anglers.
Our trips start early at 6 AM, with offshore excursions lasting between 12 to 14 hours. The primary focus is targeting trophy-sized fish. Throughout the day, we employ a mix of techniques such as trolling, live baiting, and jigging to maximize your chances of a catch. On the return journey to Destin, we can also offer one or two opportunities for swordfish drops upon request.
The boat is outfitted with both stand-up harnesses and Winthrop butt connectors on the reels, allowing you to fight big fish comfortably—whether standing or seated at a rod holder. This trip is designed to accommodate anglers of all skill levels, ensuring a rewarding experience regardless of your fishing background.
If you seek an unforgettable fishing adventure filled with excitement and the chance to land a trophy, this outing delivers exactly that.
