For 77 years, the Destin Fishing Rodeo has reeled in anglers, families, and festival-goers for a month-long, fun celebration on the Destin harbor. From weigh-ins behind A.J.’s to kids’ parades, movie nights and even Halloween on the Harbor, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re fishing, cheering from the docks, or just soaking up the waterfront vibes, the Fishing Rodeo is a Destin tradition you won’t want to miss!
77th Annual Destin Fishing Rodeo
OCTOBER 1–31
Join us all month long for the 77th Annual Destin Fishing Rodeo! Daily weigh-ins are held behind A.J.’s from 10 a.m.–7 p.m.
Destin 5K Rodeo Run
Sunday, October 5
Kick off at picturesque Clement Taylor Park on Choctawhatchee Bay. This scenic run winds through historic Destin neighborhoods and ends back at the park. Proceeds benefit the Miss Destin Scholarship Fund. Info: kimmymeyers@yahoo.com.
Kid’s Wagon Boat Parade
Sunday, October 5 | 4 p.m. | A.J.’s Seafood & Oyster Bar
A free, family-friendly Destin Fishing Rodeo tradition! Elementary school children decorate wagons to resemble boats—pirate ships, charter boats, bathtubs—whatever their imagination dreams up. No registration required.
Kids Fall Movie Festival
Monday, October 13 | A.J.’s
School’s out, and A.J.’s has the perfect solution— a FREE movie on the JumboTron! Kids enjoy hot dogs, popcorn and snow cones. Details at www.ajsdestin.com.
Bruce Cheves Day
Thursday, October 16 | A.J.’s Docks
Celebrate Destin’s beloved weighmaster, Bruce Cheves, with stories and laughter on the docks.
Ringing of the Bell
Thursday, October 16 | 5 p.m.
Held annually on Bruce Cheves Day, this special ceremony honors the lives and legends of those we lost this year.
Larry Hatchett Fishing Foundation Day
Saturday, October 18
Children from foster care enjoy a day of fishing, marine education and fun. Sponsored by The New Florida Girl’s American Spirit, Fish Florida, A.J.’s Seafood & Oyster Bar, Pilot Company, Zup-Med Memphis and Destin Realty.
3rd Annual Miss Destin Mingle
Saturday, October 25
Former Miss Destins return for a reunion and harbor cruise, celebrating the newest member of their club with photo ops at the weigh-in.
Halloween on the Harbor
Friday, October 31
Destin’s largest Halloween party! Wear your costume and join Rodeo captains, anglers, Miss Destin, judges and volunteers for spooky fun on the harbor.
NOVEMBER
77th Annual Destin Fishing Rodeo Awards
Wednesday, November 5 | 5:30 p.m. | A.J.’s
Celebrate this year’s lucky anglers, captains and mates as they receive prizes at a festive, casual gathering downstairs at A.J.’s.
