The Okaloosa County Tourist Development Department (TDD) Destin-Fort Walton Beach Tourism continues to focus their efforts on ecotourism with the deployment of the research vessel R/V MANTA. This expansion supports a long-term vision of continuing to grow as a sought-after destination for those seeking premier fishing and diving opportunities....
The Destin Fire Control District (DFCD) has been awarded the Personal Rescue Watercraft Agency Certification by the United States Lifesaving Association (USLA), America’s nonprofit professional association of beach lifeguards and open water rescuers. This certification is for agencies that can demonstrate that their personal rescue watercraft programs operate in...
Harvest of Red Grouper and Lane Snapper
Harvest of red grouper and lane snapper reopened in Gulf state waters on Jan. 1, 2023, after early season closures. The Florida Wildlife Commission is collecting critical recreational harvest fishing data to inform management of popular reef fish, including red grouper. The...
Holiday on the Harbor Boat Parade begins at 6 p.m., Sun., Dec.11
By Lori Leath Smith
Once each year, Destin boat owners make the holidays sparkle and brightly glow by adorning their vessels, any size, with as many lights and decorations as possible; then cruising in with true Destin spirit, all...
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...
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...
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...
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.
Congratulations to Isaac Jones who won first place in the recreational division with...
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...
