12 Hour Fort Walton Beach Deep Sea Fishing Charter

12 Hour Fort Walton Beach Deep Sea Fishing Charter

When you're ready to get serious about offshore fishing in the Gulf of Mexico, this 12-hour deep sea charter with Full Bend Charters is your ticket to some of the best waters off Fort Walton Beach. We're talking about a full day on the water where you'll have time to hit multiple spots, adjust to conditions, and really dial in on what's biting. With room for up to 6 anglers, this trip gives you the flexibility to fish with your crew at a pace that works for everyone. The extended time means we can run farther offshore than shorter trips, getting into deeper waters where the bigger fish live.

What to Expect on the Water

This isn't your typical half-day trip where you're watching the clock. With 12 hours on the water, you'll have time to really work different areas and techniques. We start early, typically before sunrise, so we can maximize our fishing time and get to the good spots while conditions are still calm. The boat is equipped with everything you need - rods, reels, bait, and tackle are all provided. Your captain knows these waters like the back of his hand and will adjust the game plan throughout the day based on what's working. Some days that means spending more time trolling for pelagic species, other days we might focus on bottom structure for grouper and snapper. The beauty of a 12-hour trip is having the flexibility to adapt and chase the bite wherever it takes us.

Trolling & Bottom Fishing

We'll be using two main techniques on this charter - trolling and bottom fishing. The trolling spread typically includes a mix of ballyhoo, cedar plugs, and spoons to cover different depths and attract various species. When we're trolling, you're covering ground and looking for birds, debris lines, or temperature breaks that hold fish. The bottom fishing is where we anchor up or drift over structure, dropping baits down to where the grouper, snapper, and amberjack live. We use circle hooks and fresh bait to give you the best shot at hooking up. The captain will handle the boat positioning and give you tips on technique, but you'll be doing the fighting. With 12 hours, we can spend quality time on both methods instead of rushing through spots.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Amberjack are some of the strongest fighters you'll encounter on this trip. These bruisers live around wrecks and hard bottom structure, typically in 80-150 feet of water. When you hook into a big AJ, you'll know it immediately - they make long, powerful runs and will test your drag system. The bigger ones can push 50-60 pounds, and they're most active during the warmer months from spring through fall.

Cobia are one of the most sought-after species in these waters, and for good reason. They're curious fish that will often come right up to the boat, giving you a clear shot with a cast or pitch bait. Cobia can get huge - fish over 40 pounds aren't uncommon - and they're excellent table fare. Look for them around structure or free-swimming near the surface, especially during their spring and fall migrations.

Mahi Mahi are the acrobats of the offshore world. When you hook a dolphin, get ready for some spectacular jumps and runs. They travel in schools, so when you find one, there are usually more around. Mahi are most common during the warmer months and are often found around floating debris, weed lines, or current breaks. They're also some of the best eating fish in the Gulf.

King Mackerel are speed demons that will test your reflexes and your drag. These fish are built for speed and make blistering runs when hooked. Kings are caught both trolling and bottom fishing, and they're most active during the spring and fall months. A good king will weigh 20-30 pounds, with some trophy fish pushing 40 pounds or more.

Red Snapper are the bread and butter of Gulf fishing. When snapper season is open, these fish provide consistent action on the bottom. They're smart, structure-oriented fish that require finesse and the right bait presentation. Snapper season typically runs during the summer months, and the fishing can be fast and furious when you find a good school.

Wahoo are the speed kings of the trolling world. These torpedo-shaped fish can reach speeds over 40 mph and are known for their blistering initial runs. Wahoo are typically caught while trolling at higher speeds with wire leaders to prevent their sharp teeth from cutting the line. They're more common during the cooler months and are prized for their white, flaky meat.

Grouper are the bulldogs of the bottom. When you hook a big grouper, they'll try to get back to their hole in the rocks, and it becomes a test of will between you and the fish. Gag grouper, scamp grouper, and snowy grouper all call these deeper waters home. The snowies are found in the deepest water, sometimes 300+ feet down, while gags and scamps are typically shallower.

Yellowfin Tuna are the ultimate offshore prize. These fish are pure muscle and will give you a workout like no other. Tuna are typically found in the deeper, bluer water farther offshore, which is why the 12-hour format is perfect for targeting them. They're most active during the summer and fall months and are considered the ultimate table fare by many anglers.

Time to Book Your Spot

At $2400 for up to 6 people, this 12-hour charter breaks down to just $400 per angler when you fill the boat - that's a solid value for an extended deep sea trip that includes all gear and expertise. The trip runs Monday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, giving you good flexibility for planning around work and other commitments. Fort