Destin Fishing Rodeo 2025: Dates, Details & How to Join
The 77th Annual Destin Fishing Rodeo is Almost Here
It’s almost that time of year again! The 77th Annual Destin Fishing Rodeo is set for October 1–31, 2025, and it’s one of the biggest traditions in “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village.” Every day, anglers from near and far will gather for the excitement of fishing, friendly competition, and daily weigh-ins behind AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar.
If you’ve ever wanted to be part of the Rodeo, booking a trip with Fish-N-Fun Destin Charters is one of the easiest ways to do it. Captain Karl’s boat is officially registered, which means your tournament entry is free when you book with him. Just show up, fish, and enjoy the fun!
Destin Fishing Rodeo Quick Facts
- Dates: October 1–31, 2025
- Location: Destin Harbor, weigh-ins at AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar
- Weigh-In Hours: Every day, 10 am – 7 pm
- Entry: Free when you fish with a registered charter (like Fish-N-Fun Destin!)
- Who Can Join: All ages, locals, and visitors welcome
- Special Bonus: Kids who weigh in a fish over 1 lb. get a free rod and reel
What Is the Destin Fishing Rodeo?
If you’re wondering why it’s called a “rodeo,” think of it as a month-long fishing showdown. Instead of cowboys roping cattle, anglers bring their biggest catches to the scales at AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar to see who comes out on top.
The Destin Fishing Rodeo has been running since 1948, making it one of the oldest and most celebrated fishing tournaments in Florida. Locals call Destin the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” and this event is a big reason why.
It’s more than just a competition. With kids’ events, daily weigh-ins, and plenty to see along the harbor, the Rodeo has grown into a family-friendly tradition that brings the whole community together every October.
Top Highlights of the Event
Fishing Competitions
From deep sea charters and private boats to pier, kayak, and paddleboard fishing, there’s a category for everyone. Popular catches include King Mackerel, Red Snapper, Grouper, and more. Special awards like Largest Fish by Junior Anglers, Senior Anglers, and Largest Fish Weekly keep things exciting all month long.
Daily Weigh-Ins at AJ’s (10 am–7 pm)
Even if you’re not competing, the weigh-ins are worth the trip. Watching anglers bring in massive catches is a thrill for the whole crowd. Some of these fish are so big it’s jaw-dropping to see them hauled up on the docks. It’s free to watch, and the energy on the docks makes it feel like a festival every day in October.
Family-Friendly Fun
Kids can join in on events like the Wagon Boat Parade and fall movie nights, and every child who weighs a fish over 1 lb. earns a free rod and reel. There’s also Halloween on the Harbor (October 31), where costumes take over the docks for the biggest Halloween party in Destin.
The Destin 5K Rodeo Run
On Sunday, October 5, the Rodeo Run kicks off at 8 AM, starting from Clement Taylor Park. Kids, families, and even wheelchairs are welcome on the 3.1-mile flat course. Proceeds support the Miss Destin Scholarship Fund and local charities, making it a fun way to get involved for a good cause.
Beyond Fishing
The Rodeo isn’t only about the water. You can:
- Explore HarborWalk Village for unique shops and local dining
- Enjoy the Rocktober Concert Series with live music every Saturday in October, capped off with fireworks over the harbor at 9:00 PM
- Take in the festival atmosphere all along the docks, where there’s always something happening during Rodeo season
How to Participate in the 2025 Destin Fishing Rodeo
You don’t need to own a boat to be part of the Rodeo. There are several ways to join the fun and enter your catch:
Fish from the Shore
You can participate by fishing from piers, bridges, jetties, or right off the beach. Registration is $25 for adults, and kids 14 and under can fish for free. Just bring your catch to the scales at AJ’s to be weighed.
Bring Your Own Boat, Kayak, or Paddleboard
Private boats, kayaks, and paddleboards can also compete. Registration is required, with fees starting at $100 for kayaks and paddleboards. Boats under 25’11” register for $300, and boats over 25’11” register for $500.
Book a Registered Charter
Fishing from a registered charter boat is the easiest option, since your Rodeo entry is free and your captain handles the details. Fish-N-Fun Destin is one of the registered charters, so if you book with Captain Karl in October, your spot in the Rodeo is included at no extra cost. All you have to do is show up ready to fish.
Call 850.797.1978 to book your Rodeo trip with Fish-N-Fun Destin.
Why the Rodeo Is Great for Visitors Too
October is one of the best times to plan a trip to Destin. The beaches are still warm, the weather is comfortable, and the summer crowds have thinned out. That means more space on the sand, shorter waits at restaurants, and an all-around more relaxed vibe.
For vacationing anglers, the Rodeo also partners with local lodging providers to make your stay more convenient and affordable. Ocean Reef Resorts, the official accommodations provider for the 2025 Rodeo, is offering a 15% discount on vacation rentals booked during October when you use the code RODEO. You can check out the details and availability on the official Rodeo website.
Between the fishing, family events, and the chance to save on a fall getaway, the Destin Fishing Rodeo is the perfect excuse to visit Destin like a local, even if you’re new to the area or not a hardcore angler.
See You at the Rodeo!
The Destin Fishing Rodeo is one of the best ways to experience everything this town is about: great fishing, family fun, and community spirit. Captain Karl of Fish-N-Fun Destin knows the waters inside and out, and he takes pride in helping both locals and visitors enjoy the Rodeo to the fullest.
If you’ve ever thought about booking a fishing trip, October is the perfect time. You’ll be part of one of Destin’s biggest traditions, with everything handled for you so you can just enjoy the day.
Ready to get secure your spot?
Call 850.797.1978 or send a message to book your Rodeo trip with Fish-N-Fun Destin.
Additional Details & FAQs
Where can I see the full list of awards?
The Destin Fishing Rodeo recognizes dozens of species and divisions, with daily, weekly, and overall prizes. You can view the complete list in the 2025 Rodeo Awards PDF.
Where do I park for the Rodeo?
Parking is available along the Destin Harbor near AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar. The main city lot is located at the corner of Marler Street and Harbor Boulevard (Highway 98). For maps and more details, visit the official Rodeo parking page.
Do I need tickets to attend the Destin Fishing Rodeo?
No tickets are required to watch the weigh-ins or enjoy most of the Rodeo events. However, fishing participants must register in the appropriate category (shore, private boat, kayak, paddleboard, or charter).
Can kids participate?
Yes! Every child who weighs in a fish over 1 lb. receives a free rod and reel, and there are family-friendly events all month long, including the Kids Wagon Boat Parade and Halloween on the Harbor.