3 weeks ago · Updated 1 day ago
Located on the north shore of Choctawhatchee Bay, Niceville, FL offers anglers access to both inshore and offshore fishing opportunities, with productive waters just minutes from local launches. Recent activity reflects the area’s reputation for diverse catches and strong fall fishing action.
Weekly Catches
The catches below cover the last 7 days.
Vermillion Snapper
Offshore trips out of Niceville have produced steady catches of Vermillion Snapper in the past week. These fish have been found in good numbers between weather fronts, providing consistent action for anglers targeting bottom species.
- Plenty of Vermillion Snapper reported offshore.
- Most productive during breaks in the weather, with boats focusing on deeper reefs and structure.
Triggerfish
Anglers fishing offshore structure near Niceville have landed a handful of Triggerfish recently. While not as abundant as snapper, these catches highlight the variety available on local reefs.
- Triggerfish caught alongside snapper and grouper on offshore trips.
Scamp Grouper
Recent offshore outings have also yielded Scamp Grouper, adding to the mixed-bag bottom fishing experience. These prized fish are being caught in the same areas as snapper and triggerfish.
- Scamp Grouper landed on deeper reefs during the week.
Gag Grouper
Reports from Niceville indicate that Gag Grouper are active, with anglers finding success on both natural and artificial reefs. These fish are a popular target during the fall season.
- Gag Grouper caught on offshore structure.
Redfish
Inshore anglers have enjoyed solid action with Redfish in the bays and bayous around Niceville. These fish are being caught around structure and grass edges, especially during moving tides.
- Good numbers of Redfish reported in local bayous and nearshore waters.
Spanish Mackerel
The Spanish Mackerel bite has started to pick up, with anglers reporting increased activity in the bay and nearshore areas. These fast-moving fish are often found chasing bait schools.
- Spanish Mackerel activity increasing in the bay and nearshore.
Sharks
Recent trips have produced memorable catches of large Bull Shark and Lemon Shark, especially for families and youth anglers. These catches provide exciting action and lasting memories for those fishing the area.
- Notable catches include a 7-foot Bull Shark and an 8-foot Lemon Shark on recent guided trips.
Weather & Marine Conditions
Offshore fishing has been most productive between passing weather fronts, with anglers timing trips to take advantage of calmer seas. The area has experienced periods of high tidal coefficients, resulting in strong currents and pronounced tidal swings, especially around the full moon. These conditions have contributed to active feeding windows for both inshore and offshore species.
Tides & Solunar Activity
Niceville and the nearby Destin area have seen very high tidal coefficients this week, with values exceeding 100 on several days. This has led to significant tidal movement and strong currents, particularly during the morning and evening tide changes. The full moon has also enhanced night fishing opportunities, as many predator species feed more actively under bright conditions.
- High tidal coefficients (over 100) observed early in the week, tapering to the high 90s by midweek.
- Full moon conditions have favored night fishing for active predators.
Fishing Conditions & Tips
With strong tidal movement and active fish, anglers are advised to focus efforts around peak tide changes and solunar periods. Offshore, targeting deeper reefs and structure has been effective for snapper, grouper, and triggerfish. Inshore, working grass edges and structure during moving water has produced redfish and mackerel. Night fishing is recommended during the full moon for those seeking larger predators.
Regulations & Notices
Anglers fishing in the Niceville area must comply with current Florida fishing regulations. A valid freshwater or saltwater fishing license is required unless fishing with a licensed saltwater charter, in which case the license is included. Notably, the Gulf recreational amberjack season is closed through August 2026, and no quota remains for the 2025 recreational season in Gulf federal waters. Always check for the latest updates on open seasons and size/bag limits before heading out.
- Amberjack season is closed in Gulf federal waters through August 2026.
- Licenses are required for both residents and non-residents unless fishing with a licensed saltwater charter.
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Niceville FL
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