Get ready for a heart-pounding adventure on our 8-hour night shark fishing trip off the shores of Destin, Florida. This isn't your average fishing charter – we're talking big reels, custom drones, and kayaks to deploy massive baits up to 800 yards offshore. From May to August, we target the giants of the shark world: greater hammerheads and tiger sharks that can stretch over 9 feet long. Our seasoned crew has dialed in the shark migration patterns, so you're in for some serious action. We typically hook 2-3 monsters during a 4-hour window, but with this extended trip, who knows what records we might break? If you're after an adrenaline rush and the catch of a lifetime, you've come to the right place.
As the sun sets over the Emerald Coast, that's when our real work begins. We use state-of-the-art technology to maximize your chances of hooking into a beast. Our custom drones aren't just for show – they're our secret weapon for precise bait placement. We'll load up kayaks with 10+ pound baits and paddle them out where the big boys feed. Once we're set up, it's a waiting game, but not for long. When that reel starts screaming, be ready for the fight of your life. Our experienced guides will be right there with you, offering tips and making sure you're safe as you battle these ocean predators. It's not uncommon to see sparks fly off the reel – that's how much power these sharks pack!
This season has been one for the books. We've seen anglers reel in tiger sharks pushing 12 feet and hammerheads that look like they could swallow a small boat. But it's not just about size – the variety keeps things interesting. Blacktips, lemons, and bull sharks all make regular appearances, each with their own fighting style. One night, we had a group hook into a goliath grouper that gave a shark a run for its money! Remember, this is catch-and-release fishing at its finest. We're all about conservation, so after a few quick photos, these magnificent creatures go right back to patrolling the depths.
"Shark fishing was an unforgettable experience, and I'm so glad I chose the right team for the adventure. Zach's expertise was evident, and he put in a ton of effort to get us on the sharks—and he absolutely delivered!" - Robert
"This crew made my birthday wish come true—I landed an incredible shark! They knew exactly where to take us, used a drone to drop the bait, and handled everything, even setting up our chairs. The experience was absolutely top-notch, and all I can say is these guys are truly amazing!" - Brian
"My son had an incredible time—he reeled in five tiger sharks in a single night! The crew was outstanding, full of knowledge, and made the experience unforgettable. Highly recommend this adventure!" - Becky
Shortfin Mako Shark: These are the speedsters of the shark world, known to clock in at over 40 mph. Makos are prized for their acrobatic jumps and blistering runs. While they're not as common as some other species in our waters, hooking one is like winning the lottery. They're most active in the cooler months, so if you're here in early May, you might just get lucky.
Blacktip Shark: Don't let their smaller size fool you – blacktips are pound-for-pound some of the hardest fighting sharks out there. These guys are known for their explosive strikes and aerial displays. They're a summer staple in Destin, often seen in schools, which means multiple hookups are possible. If you're new to shark fishing, blacktips are a great species to cut your teeth on.
Lemon Shark: Named for their yellowish-brown color, lemon sharks are a favorite among our regulars. They're known for their intelligence and can grow up to 10 feet long. Lemons like to hunt in shallow coastal waters, which means you might hook one closer to shore than you'd expect. They put up a steady, powerful fight that'll test your stamina.
Bull Shark: These are the bruisers of the shark world. Bull sharks are stocky, aggressive, and not afraid to venture into very shallow water. They're here year-round but seem to be more active at night. When you hook a bull shark, be prepared for a down-and-dirty fight. They don't jump like makos, but their raw power is something to behold.
Goliath Grouper: While not a shark, these behemoths are a bonus catch that'll make your night. Goliaths can grow over 800 pounds and are known for their bone-crushing initial runs. They love structure, so if we're fishing near a wreck or reef, don't be surprised if one of these giants decides to crash the shark party. Landing a goliath is a team effort and a true test of your gear.
Look, if you're on the fence about this trip, let me level with you – this isn't your average day on the water. This is the kind of fishing that gets your heart racing and leaves you with stories you'll be telling for years. Our crew at Drop Zone Fishing Charters has put in the time to know these waters like the back of our hands. We're not just fishing; we're giving you a front-row seat to some of the ocean's most impressive predators. Whether you're a seasoned shark angler or it's your first time, we've got you covered. The season's heating up, and spots are filling fast. Don't miss your chance to tangle with a tiger shark under the stars. Give us a call, and let's get you hooked up with the fishing trip of a lifetime. Trust me, once you feel that first run, you'll be hooked for good.
October 6, 2024
This crew made my birthday wish come true—I landed an incredible shark! They knew exactly where to take us, used a drone to drop the bait, and handled everything, even setting up our chairs. The experience was absolutely top-notch, and all I can say is these guys are truly amazing!
October 29, 2024
Had an amazing time—can’t wait to come back!
February 23, 2025
What an amazing experience to touch a shark and then hold its mouth open for pictures. Not your average experience. This is a once in a lifetime experience. Caught a 10 foot tiger shark!!! Amazing
August 12, 2024
My son had an incredible time—he reeled in five tiger sharks in a single night! The crew was outstanding, full of knowledge, and made the experience unforgettable. Highly recommend this adventure!
July 22, 2024
Awesome trip. Guides work hard to get you a shark.
July 13, 2025
Blacktip sharks are common in our warm coastal waters, usually 4-5 feet long. You'll spot them by the black tips on their fins. They hang around artificial reefs and shallow areas, often in water less than 100 feet deep. These sharks are known for their spectacular aerial displays - they can leap 21 feet per second out of the water! Spring and summer are prime time as they follow schools of bait fish inshore. Blacktips put up a great fight on medium-heavy tackle. Use oily fish like mackerel or sardines for bait. A good chum slick helps draw them in. Watch for their tell-tale dorsal fin cutting through the surface as they investigate. Once hooked, be ready for some acrobatics. Local tip: deploy multiple lines at different depths to increase your odds of a hookup.
Bull sharks are the bruisers of our local waters. These stocky predators can reach 11 feet and 500 pounds. They're unique among sharks, able to tolerate freshwater and often found in rivers and estuaries. Bulls are aggressive feeders, most active in shallow coastal areas under 100 feet deep. Summer is prime time as they follow bait fish inshore. These sharks put up a relentless fight - pure power from start to finish. Use heavy tackle and wire leaders. Fresh cut bait like mullet or ladyfish works well. Chum helps bring them in close. Local tip: focus on areas where freshwater meets saltwater, like river mouths. Bulls aren't picky eaters, so be ready for anything when that reel starts screaming. Catching one of these monsters is a true test of an angler's skill and strength.
Goliath Groupers are the gentle giants of our reefs. These massive fish can reach 8 feet and 800 pounds. You'll find them around shallow reefs and artificial structures in less than 150 feet of water. They're ambush predators, using their huge mouths to inhale prey whole. Late summer and early fall are best for fishing, as they gather to spawn. Goliaths put up an intense, but usually short-lived fight. Use extremely heavy tackle - we're talking 80-wide reels and 600-pound test line. Live bait like blue runners or ladyfish works well. Local tip: bounce your bait off the bottom to create commotion and attract their attention. Remember, these fish are protected, so it's catch and release only. Even if you can't keep them, the thrill of battling one of these behemoths is an experience you won't forget.
Lemon sharks are a common sight in our shallow coastal waters. They're easily identified by their yellowish-brown color and flattened head. Typically 8-10 feet long, these sharks prefer warm, murky areas near mangroves and seagrass beds. You'll often find them in water less than 30 feet deep. Spring and early summer are prime time as they move inshore to pup. Lemon sharks are known for their powerful, steady fight - no fancy jumps, just raw power. They're curious creatures and will often investigate boats and anglers. Use fresh cut bait like mullet or ladyfish. Local tip: fish the tide changes in channels between islands for best results. While not the biggest shark out there, lemons offer a solid, exciting catch for anglers of all skill levels.
Shortfin Mako sharks are speed demons of the ocean, clocking in at over 30 mph. These powerful predators average 6-8 feet long but can reach 13 feet. You'll find them in open water, often near the surface. They're partial warm-blooded, so they can handle a range of temperatures. Makos are prized for their acrobatic fights - they're known to leap 20 feet out of the water when hooked. Best fishing is spring through fall when they follow the bait fish. Use heavy tackle - at least 50 lb class gear with wire leaders. Live bait like bluefish or squid works well. Be ready for anything when you hook one - they're smart and will use every trick to get free, including jumping into the boat. Catching a Mako is the ultimate offshore challenge for serious anglers.
Shark fishing was an unforgettable experience, and I’m so glad I chose the right team for the adventure. Zach’s expertise was evident, and he put in a ton of effort to get us on the sharks—and he absolutely delivered! I highly recommend this trip to anyone looking for an exciting challenge, and there’s no doubt I’ll be booking again next year!