📅 When
October 1, 2026 – October 31, 2026
10:00 – 19:00
📍 Where
116 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541
About this event
Every October, the world's top anglers descend on Destin for the legendary Destin Fishing Rodeo — running strong since 1948 and now in its 77th year. For the entire month of October, the Destin Harbor buzzes with the excitement of competitive deep-sea fishing as hundreds of boats battle for trophies across dozens of species categories.
Daily public weigh-ins behind AJ's Seafood & Oyster Bar (10 AM–7 PM) are completely free and offer a front-row spectacle — watch massive amberjack, mahi, tuna, and even billfish get hauled to the scale as the crowd reacts to every record-breaking catch. Special events include a Kids' Wagon Boat Parade on October 5, a 5K Run on October 3, and a festive Halloween party to close out the month on October 31.
The Fishing Rodeo transforms all of October into a month-long festival atmosphere throughout Destin. From casual onlookers to die-hard fishing families, there is something thrilling about watching the fleet come home each afternoon. This is Destin at its most authentic — and one of the most uniquely unforgettable events on the entire Gulf Coast.
Best for: Fishing enthusiasts, families, anyone wanting an authentic Destin experience during peak fall season
What to expect: Free daily weigh-ins Oct 1–31 (10 AM–7 PM behind AJ's), Kids Wagon Boat Parade Oct 5, 5K Run Oct 3, Halloween party Oct 31
Planning tip: Time your visit around the Oct 5 Kids' Wagon Boat Parade for family fun, or come on a Saturday afternoon when the largest catches tend to come in. Combine with the Destin Seafood Festival (Oct 2–4) for a full fishing culture immersion.
Cost: Free to watch weigh-ins; entry fees apply for competing anglers
