The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has retained Atkins Global to conduct a study in Florida to better understand the impacts of long-term stored vessels. Feedback from residents, business owners, visitors and others who use and enjoy Florida’s waters is a crucial part of the research.
The intent...
Go Slow, Look Out Below
This time of year, it’s important for boaters to go slow and lookout below to watch for manatees as they travel to warmer water sites around the state.
Manatees depend on water generally warmer than 68 degrees Fahrenheit to survive the winter. So, in the fall...
By Cali Hlavac, To Do in Destin
This time of year, we usually notice different species of fish migrate into our Gulf waters – specifically Flounder and Sheepshead. Cooler weather means the fish will school up in one area, making them easier to catch once you track them down.
“Flounder and...
A new “Aqua Alert” system has been developed after a kayaker disappeared last year in the Gulf. It will notify Emergency Responders and Okaloosa County residents of missing or endangered boaters or kayakers and aid in the search.
It was launched as the result of a collaborative effort between the...
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission announces the opening of a fall red snapper season for private recreational anglers and state for-hire operations in the Gulf of Mexico on the following weekends:
Nov. 11-13
Nov. 25-27
During this season, private recreational anglers may harvest red snapper in Gulf state and federal...
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) recently named the winners of the summer-long, statewide, lionfish tournament which ended Sept. 6 and two Okaloosa County residents placed first and second in the 7th Annual Lionfish Challenge.
Alex Fogg
Congratulations to Isaac Jones who won first place in the recreational division...
In Okaloosa County, an artificial reef is a fun and satisfying site for fishing, diving and snorkeling that is easily accessible for us all. Our area’s artificial reefs consist of anything from concrete piles to specifically designed modules and even large shipwrecks.
Our area has one of the most active...
By Cali Hlavac
For us locals, it’s time to begin getting ready for this year’s Fishing Rodeo season—a Destin tradition since 1948! And each year it gets better and better with several new events in the upcoming lineup.
New for 2022: The Extended Voyage Division will get an expansion, adding five...
A $1 million makeover has resulted in a new prime location for boaters and paddlers to hit Destin and Fort Walton Beach beaches.
In September, the Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners held the grand opening of the Okaloosa Island Boat Basin and ADA Accessible Kayak Launch. The boat basin...
With summer in full swing, many people are working and recreating near Florida’s lakes, rivers and wetland areas. Warm temperatures also mean alligators are more active and visible. While serious injuries caused by alligators are rare in Florida, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission recommends taking the following...
