Surf Fishing Clinic In Destin

[santaman2000]

I've been in the Florida panhandle for over 20 years now. Been fishing freshwater, saltwater pier fishing, deep sea fishing, and jettie/bayou/bay fishing. But had never been surf fishing. Until today.

A few weeks ago I was perusing the website of the local Bass Pro Shops' brick & mortar store in Destin. They offer classes and clinics from time to time and on this occasion I spotted one listed for surf fishing. It was very, very attractive! Limited to no more than 10 participants and bait and tackle provided along with instruction. So I called and registered spots for bot myself and Barbara.

Well this morning the weather was excellent and we had a great time. Not much in the way of fish caught I'm afraid; I caught a saltwater catfish (not really edible and has venomous fins) a few people caught ladyfish and one gut did catch a fantastic redfish. Too fantastic unfortunately; it was over the maximum legal size (redfish have a "slot" size requirement to be legal to keep (must be at least 18" and no longer than 27"

Also saw a small shark patrolling west along the shore about 15 feet out. All in all a great morning on the beach.

Now----must go buy a surf rod!

 

[santaman2000]

Found a basic photo Bass Pro posted up on FB

 

[Ozzycraig]

Looks stunning, I'm off to vegas in 2 weeks and can't wait to check out the big bass pro shop there.

 

[santaman2000]

I haven't been to that one, it hadn't been built when I was there some 20 years ago. But I would imagine it's more geared towards freshwater fishing as they're all themed for the individual locations. I'd love to see it myself!

Enjoy your trip! Check out Mt Charleston while you're there.

 

[santaman2000]

Bass Pro final put the rest of their photos of this class up:

Barbara on the far right & me next with the tarp hat as one of the instructors (in the straw hat & green shirt demo the gear

Watching my rod tip for a strike as one of the instructors chats with Barbara doing the same

Another instructor showing Barbara how to bait a 2 hook drop rig with sand fleas

 

[santaman2000]

One of the kids in the class

We forgot our chairs. But the kid and his dad remembered theirs!

 

[GordonM]

Nice report Santaman. I do enjoy fishing, mostly freshwater fishing. I do get to the bay here to do some pier fishing from time to time.

 

[Dave]

Fantastic looking beach.