Northwest Florida Fishing Report
Joe Baya brings you the first podcast to bring you the local inshore, offshore, and onshore fishing report from Pensacola to Panama City, Florida whether it's good, bad, or ugly.
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790-Pound Bluefin, Kayak Flats Fishing, And Gulf Coast Billfish Tournament Season
05/22/2026
790-Pound Bluefin, Kayak Flats Fishing, And Gulf Coast Billfish Tournament Season
In this week’s Northwest Florida Fishing Report, host Joe Baya is joined by Butch Thierry and Angelo DePaola for a wide-ranging Gulf Coast report covering a massive 790-pound bluefin tuna, improving swordfish and dolphin action offshore, heavy sargassum in the blue water, kayak-accessible inshore trout and redfish patterns, nearshore reef opportunities, and the kickoff of Gulf billfish tournament season. This episode features , , and . Capt. Adam Peeples gives the offshore report after landing a 113-inch, 790-pound bluefin tuna while live baiting with blackfin tuna on Penn 70s, 150-pound hollow core braid, 130-pound mono, 200-pound fluorocarbon leader, and a 12/0 Mustad Perfect Circle hook. He also reports strong dolphin action, an improving swordfish bite, 78-degree blue water, and scattered sargassum that is making trolling difficult. Adam explains how anglers can adjust by avoiding grass-catching plugs and divers, using single-hook rigs, fishing live baits differently, and staying disciplined about keeping lines clean. Brandon Barton gives the kayak fishing report from the Pensacola area, where trout and redfish are active on open grass flats, sand potholes, and shallow-to-mid-depth areas in the sound. He breaks down topwater, wake bait, jerk bait, weedless shrimp, and paddle tail tactics for trout and redfish, along with how he uses kayak mobility and electric propulsion to reach less-pressured water. Brandon also talks nearshore reefs, where amberjack, snapper, grouper, king mackerel, and even mahi are becoming realistic kayak targets as summer patterns build. Jim Cox recaps the Orange Beach Billfish Classic, the first leg of the Gulf Coast Triple Crown, with a record 62 boats and a $1.6 million tournament purse. He covers the long runs teams made in search of current, the strong blue marlin catch-and-release results, giant tuna weighed during the event, and how Gulf Coast tournament fishing continues to become more technical with sonar fishing, live baiting, fuel range, and advanced boat technology shaping the modern game. Sponsors:
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Red Snapper Season Opens as Northwest Florida Fishing Heats Up Inshore and Offshore
05/14/2026
Red Snapper Season Opens as Northwest Florida Fishing Heats Up Inshore and Offshore
In this week’s Northwest Florida Fishing Report, host Joe Baya covers the start of a long red snapper season, strong vermilion snapper fishing, inshore redfish and trout patterns, and Spanish mackerel action around Destin and Choctawhatchee Bay. This episode features Capt. Harris Scruggs with and Capt. Blake Nelson of . Capt. Harris Scruggs gives the offshore report from Panama City, where vermilion snapper fishing has been excellent and red snapper season is about to bring heavy pressure to public wrecks and reefs. He breaks down bait, tackle, wreck positioning, waypoint strategy, and why anglers should also consider scamp, mangrove snapper, triggerfish, and other bottom fish. Capt. Blake Nelson gives the inshore report from the Destin area, with redfish and trout on the flats, pogies becoming the easier live bait option, and Spanish mackerel still available by trolling roll-downs, bridges, and bay structure. He also shares tips on fishing unfamiliar water safely and matching lures to grass, mud, depth, and water clarity. Sponsors:
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Surf Fishing Tactics, Bluefin Tuna Stories, and Big Trout Lessons
05/07/2026
Surf Fishing Tactics, Bluefin Tuna Stories, and Big Trout Lessons
In this week’s Northwest Florida Fishing Report, host Joe Baya is joined by co-host Angelo DePaola for a wide-open May fishing report that covers surf fishing, offshore tuna and bottom fishing, Gulf Coast real estate for anglers, and inshore big trout tactics. This episode features Justin Reed with , Capt. Tyler Massey with , Angelo DePaola with , and Capt. Evan Wheeler with . The big theme this week is that Northwest Florida anglers have a lot of good options right now, from pompano in the surf to giant bluefin tuna offshore and trophy trout inshore, but success depends on reading conditions, finding clean water, and matching the right tactics to the moment. Justin Reed breaks down the Pensacola surf fishing report, where pompano are still biting well despite June grass becoming a major factor. He explains that the recent north wind helped push the grass offshore, but returning south winds could bring it right back to the beach. Justin says the key is not necessarily finding the perfect pompano structure right now, but finding clean, fishable water. He also covers how often to check baits when grass is present, why pompano should remain available through May, how to deal with ladyfish and blue runners, and why olive-sized sand fleas are ideal when pompano are running on the smaller side. He also talks through his surf rig setup, including 20-pound mono pompano rigs, 20-pound braid main line, a 20- to 30-pound mono top shot, pyramid weights inside the bar, and why a clean braid-to-mono connection matters for repeated long casts. Capt. Tyler Massey with Hot Spots Charters gives the offshore report from Pensacola, led by the story of a 777-pound bluefin tuna caught near the FADs. Tyler explains how the crew was intentionally watching for bluefin, how they caught the fish on a live blackfin tuna, and why targeting fish that size requires serious tackle, heavy drag, strong rod holders, backing plates, and a plan for getting the fish into the boat. He also talks about seeing another bluefin during the fight, the importance of live bait around the FADs, and why these fish have become a realistic but still rare Gulf opportunity. Beyond the bluefin story, Tyler reports excellent vermilion snapper fishing, strong mangrove snapper action, and good opportunities for scamp and red grouper depending on depth, bottom type, and presentation. Angelo DePaola with Coastal Connection EXP Realty gives a Gulf Coast real estate update focused on how uncertainty, interest rates, inventory, and buyer confidence are shaping the market. He explains that the market is moving in pulses, with slower stretches followed by bursts of activity when buyers feel more comfortable. Angelo also talks about why sellers are often holding firm when properties are priced correctly, how current conditions feel more like a normal market than the unusually fast pace of recent years, and why waterfront and boating-focused properties along the Gulf Coast continue to hold long-term value. He also highlights Abaco in Orange Beach as a unique option for anglers and boaters who want a new waterfront development with boat slips, resort-style amenities, marina access, and a strong location near both inshore and offshore fishing. Capt. Evan Wheeler gives the inshore report from the Pensacola area, where the expected full moon big trout bite did not play out exactly as anticipated due to odd spring timing, a late cold front, and shifting conditions. Evan explains that big trout and redfish are still being caught, but the bite has been more about specific locations, historical knowledge, bait presentation, and precision than obvious surface activity. He breaks down how to target larger trout on purpose, including how to choose soft plastics, slick-style baits, jerk shads, topwaters, and suspending twitch baits based on depth, grass, current, water clarity, and fish behavior. Evan also gives Angelo a Chandeleur Islands tackle breakdown, recommending topwaters, mirror lures, slick-style plastics, weedless presentations, natural colors in clear water, darker or more opaque colors in dirty water, and a simple approach to covering the top, middle, and lower parts of the water column. Sponsors:
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May Pompano, Big Trout, And Offshore Weather Windows
04/30/2026
May Pompano, Big Trout, And Offshore Weather Windows
In this week’s Northwest Florida Fishing Report, host Joe Baya covers a spring fishing pattern shaped by cold fronts, full moon timing, surf grass, inshore trout and redfish activity, and offshore weather windows. This episode features Blake Hunter with , Brandon Barton with , and Capt. Adam Peeples with . The big theme this week is that May could offer strong fishing across Northwest Florida, but anglers need to adjust to changing wind, water clarity, bait availability, and sea conditions. Blake Hunter of Reel30A breaks down the surf bite, where pompano are still moving through and May is shaping up to be better than expected. He explains that live sand fleas remain the top bait when anglers can find them, but Fishbites, fresh dead shrimp, dead sand fleas, ghost shrimp, and blue crab knuckles can all play a role. Blake also covers how to deal with June grass, rough surf, heavier sinkers, color changes, and why anglers should run a variety of float colors and bait setups until the pompano show a clear preference. Brandon Barton with Emerald Waters Kayak Charters reports strong inshore action around the sound, grass flats, docks, potholes, and drop-offs. He says trout and redfish are feeding well on topwaters, wake baits, twitch baits, jerk baits, and smaller artificial shrimp when conditions get clear and fish become spooky. Brandon also explains how to fish flats from a kayak, when to downsize leader, why wake baits are so effective for covering water, and how the full moon and incoming cold front could create a good window for big speckled trout. Capt. Adam Peeples with One Shot Charters gives the offshore report from Destin, where rough spring weather continues to limit opportunities, but the fishing is close to breaking open. He talks through how to decide whether to run offshore based on the boat, crew, sea direction, forecast, and safety. Adam says the swordfish bite was slower than expected despite good water, while bottom fishing produced strong results, including big mangrove snapper and good tilefish action. He also notes that bait has been excellent around East Pass, Spanish mackerel fishing is strong, and king mackerel should continue improving as May progresses. Sponsors:
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No Outriggers, No Problem: Slow Trolling Wahoo For Any Boat
04/20/2026
No Outriggers, No Problem: Slow Trolling Wahoo For Any Boat
In this week’s Northwest Florida Fishing Report, host Joe Baya is joined by co-host Butch Thierry for a special offshore episode focused on wahoo fishing with Chris Vecsey of . The episode breaks down why wahoo are such an exciting Gulf target, how they can be caught closer to shore than many anglers realize, and why smaller-boat anglers can successfully target them with the right conditions, structure, spread, and gear. Chris explains that one of the biggest misconceptions about wahoo fishing is that anglers have to high-speed troll to catch them. While that works, he prefers a more controlled approach for most center-console anglers, focusing on natural bottom, shelf edges, rigs, FADs, floating debris, bait, current, and clean water. He says blue water alone is not enough. The best areas usually have structure, current, and food working together. The episode also covers practical trolling setups, including simple four-line spreads with plugs, skirted ballyhoo, weighted Islander-style lures, sea witches, and surface baits. For boats with outriggers, Chris explains how he expands that into a six-line spread with corner baits, rigger baits, a shotgun, and a middle bait. He also shares why birds, properly staggered lines, and repeatable bait placement can make a big difference. Chris finishes with rigging and landing advice, including when to use wire, cable, heavy mono, braid backing, mono top shots, and shock leaders. He stresses that the reel is the one place serious wahoo anglers should not cut corners, and he explains how to keep fish buttoned up near the boat by controlling the fish’s head, easing the drag when needed, and using a smaller gaff around the collar. Sponsors:
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Boat Electronics, Creek Trout, Bay Redfish, Offshore Grouper, and the Destin Boat Show
04/16/2026
Boat Electronics, Creek Trout, Bay Redfish, Offshore Grouper, and the Destin Boat Show
In this week’s Northwest Florida Fishing Report, host Joe Baya covers a wide-ranging spring pattern with changing weather, flexible fishing options, and a look at how modern boat electronics can help anglers stay more efficient on the water. This episode features Capt. Justin Leake with , Capt. Harris Scruggs with , Capt. Evan Wheeler with , and Jim Cox with the . The big theme this week is that spring fishing across Northwest Florida is opening up in a lot of different ways, but success still comes down to adjusting to wind, conditions, and where the fish want to be. Joe starts with Capt. Justin Leake with , who breaks down how he approaches the three main types of spring days. On the roughest front days, Justin says he likes to tuck deep into creeks and bayous for trout, redfish, and even the occasional bass. On the in-between days, he focuses on bay fishing around jetties, bridges, and passes for Spanish mackerel, sheepshead, mangrove snapper, and redfish. When the Gulf finally lays down, he says the nearshore reefs are loaded with action, including red grouper, snapper, bonitas, and even a few early kings. Justin also shares a detailed look at how networked electronics, side imaging, drift mode, and better boat positioning can help anglers fish more efficiently and cover water more effectively. Next, Joe checks in with Capt. Harris Scruggs with , who says the offshore bite out of Panama City has been strong on the calmer windows. Harris reports steady action on triggerfish, vermilion snapper, red grouper, scamp, Spanish mackerel, and bonita, with plenty of bait around and good opportunities both near the pass and on reefs in 60 to 100 feet of water. He also explains that anglers fishing natural bottom should not always expect fish to show clearly on the machine right away, and that some of the best areas still take confidence and repeated passes to figure out. Joe also talks with Jim Cox with the , which is set for May 1 through 3 at Sunset Isle Yacht Club on Okaloosa Island. Jim says the show is designed to reflect the wide variety of boating in the Destin area, from offshore center consoles and bay boats to tritoons, cruisers, and luxury boats. He explains that the show will include boats in the water and on land, along with marine accessories, fishing seminars, food, drinks, and coastal lifestyle vendors. Finally, Joe checks in with Capt. Evan Wheeler with in Pensacola, who says the trout bite has been strong in salty, clear water despite heavy wind swings. Evan explains how he approaches protected backwaters on rough days and grass flats on calmer days, with a focus on matching bait presentation to current, water depth, and wind direction. He says big trout are eating both live bait and artificials right now, especially larger soft plastics and topwaters, and he shares several tips on presentation, positioning, and how to stay calm and land a trophy trout once it bites. Sponsors:
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Migrating Pompano, Trophy Trout, and Early Spanish Mackerel
04/09/2026
Migrating Pompano, Trophy Trout, and Early Spanish Mackerel
In this week’s Northwest Florida Fishing Report, host Joe Baya covers a productive spring transition despite rough offshore weather, with pompano showing up in the surf, big trout feeding in the bay, and Spanish mackerel providing a solid option closer to shore. This episode features Blake Hunter with and Capt. Blake Nelson of . The big theme this week is that spring fishing is taking shape across Northwest Florida, but anglers still need to stay flexible and fish around changing conditions. Joe starts in the surf with Blake Hunter of Reel30A, who says the pompano migration is underway and the next few weeks should offer some of the best beach fishing of the season. He explains how fish are moving in waves along the beach, why live sand fleas are so important right now, and how staying mobile can help anglers find the best concentrations of fish. Next, Joe checks in with Capt. Blake Nelson of Last Cast Charters for an inshore report from the Choctawhatchee Bay area. Blake says the trout bite has been very good, with quality fish over 20 inches and some larger trout showing up. He also reports redfish action and the arrival of Spanish mackerel around bridges, flats, and drop-offs. Blake shares that both live bait and artificials are working, with success often coming down to stealth, long casts, and making the right presentation. Sponsors:
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Spring Pompano Run, Trophy Trout, and Early Spanish Mackerel
04/02/2026
Spring Pompano Run, Trophy Trout, and Early Spanish Mackerel
In this week’s Northwest Florida Fishing Report, host Joe Baya covers a strong early spring shift with the surf bite turning on, big trout showing up in Pensacola-area backwaters, and offshore anglers working around windy weather. This episode features Justin Reed on a full-blown pompano run from Pensacola to Navarre, Brandon Barton on topwater trout in transition areas, and Capt. Tyler Massey of Hot Spots Charters on Spanish mackerel and early scamp season opportunities. The big theme this week is that spring patterns are taking shape across the region, but success still depends on adjusting to conditions and staying flexible. Joe starts in the surf with Justin Reed with , who says the pompano run is officially on, with schools of fish moving the beaches and consistent action for anglers fishing the sandbars. He breaks down how to pick productive water, space rods, choose colors, and adjust baits and rigs to stay on fish during the migration. Next, Joe checks in with Brandon Barton with for an inshore report from the Pensacola area. Brandon says big trout are setting up in transition zones around creeks and bayous, with bait getting pushed out and topwater lures producing some of the better fish of the week. He also explains why stealth, long casts, and covering similar types of water are key right now. To wrap up, Joe heads offshore with Capt. Tyler Massey of . Tyler says rough weather has limited offshore trips, but Spanish mackerel have arrived near Pensacola Beach and are providing fun action for anglers trolling or casting. He also shares that bottom fishing remains productive, with scamp season reopening and live bait becoming easier to find as water temperatures rise. Sponsors:
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Bigger Triggerfish, Early Pompano, and Spring Trout on the Emerald Coast
03/26/2026
Bigger Triggerfish, Early Pompano, and Spring Trout on the Emerald Coast
In this week’s Northwest Florida Fishing Report, host Joe Baya covers a spring transition with updates from offshore, the surf, and Pensacola inshore waters. This episode features Capt. Harris Scruggs on Panama City triggerfish, grouper, vermilion snapper, and early Spanish mackerel, Blake Hunter on scattered pompano, bull reds, and black drum in the surf, and Brandon Barton on clear-water trout and redfish tactics. The big theme this week is that spring is close, but anglers still need to adjust to changing conditions. Joe starts offshore with . Harris says short bottom trips are producing triggerfish, vermilion snapper, red grouper, and scamp, and he explains how fishing bigger baits off the bottom can help target larger triggerfish. He also shares a quick update on early Spanish mackerel showing closer to the beach. Next, Joe checks in with for the surf report. Blake says the main pompano run has not fully arrived, but there are enough fish around to keep anglers watching the full moon, beach structure, and water temperature. He also says bull reds and black drum are giving surf anglers another strong option right now. To wrap, Joe heads to Pensacola with for an inshore report on trout and redfish. Brandon explains why stealth matters so much in the clear, shallow water and shares a few lure and presentation adjustments that can make a difference. Overall, the report shows Northwest Florida is right on the edge of a stronger spring bite. Sponsors:
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Destin Wahoo Fishing, Swordfish Moon Phases and Pensacola Trout Patterns
03/19/2026
Destin Wahoo Fishing, Swordfish Moon Phases and Pensacola Trout Patterns
In this week’s Northwest Florida Fishing Report, host Joe Baya tracks a late March transition with a strong offshore update out of Destin and an inshore speckled trout report from the Pensacola area. This episode features Capt. Adam Peoples of One Shot Charters on wahoo, swordfish, and open-water tuna action, plus Capt. Evan Wheeler of Tall Pines Tight Lines on pre-spawn trout behavior during a stretch of changing weather. The big theme this week is that spring opportunities are building, but anglers still need to adjust to shifting conditions and stay flexible day to day. Joe starts offshore with Capt. Adam Peeples of in Destin. Adam breaks down a weekend that included a wahoo bite at the FADs, steady swordfish action, and open-water tuna schools pushing bait on the surface. He explains how he likes to slow troll a varied spread for wahoo, why he sticks with mono instead of wire on diving plugs, and what anglers should look for when rigging spinning setups for tuna on swimbaits. Next, Joe heads inshore with for a Pensacola-area trout report. Evan says March remains a tough but rewarding transition month, with fish shifting between winter and spring patterns depending on temperature, tide, and daily conditions. He explains how big trout are balancing warmth, forage, and spawning movement, and he shares a detailed look at confidence baits, search baits, and why lure choice should match depth, cover, and the specific type of trout fishing you are trying to do. To wrap, Joe and Evan look ahead to the next couple of weeks and agree that the late March to early April window should keep producing chances at quality trout, especially as conditions settle and fish move closer to a true spring pattern. Sponsors:
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Pompano Update, Destin Trout and Redfish, Pensacola Offshore Bite, and Wharf Boat Show 2026
03/12/2026
Pompano Update, Destin Trout and Redfish, Pensacola Offshore Bite, and Wharf Boat Show 2026
for a surf report focused on pompano. Justin says there were a few better days leading up to the full moon, but the bite has been inconsistent since, with redfish, whiting, and catfish filling in while anglers wait for the real run to kick off. He explains why late March into early April still looks like the better window and shares how he staggers baits across the beach to find where fish are traveling. Next, Joe checks in with Jim Cox for a preview of , set for March 20 through 22 at The Wharf in Orange Beach. Jim breaks down what makes the show special, from in-water boats and yachts to hundreds more on land, along with why boat show season can be a great time to compare models and find real buying incentives. From there, Joe talks with Capt. Blake Nelson of in Destin about an inshore bite centered on trout and redfish. Blake explains how fish are using creek mouths, bayous, and nearby flats based on food and conditions, and he shares why popping corks with live shrimp and weedless soft plastics are good tools right now. To wrap, Capt. Tyler Massey of gives an offshore report centered on vermilion snapper and triggerfish. Tyler explains how to find better triggerfish on smaller structure, how he distinguishes vermilions and triggers on the machine, and why April should bring more Spanish mackerel, king mackerel, and other spring opportunities. Sponsors:
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How to Fish the Transition—Trout Cadence Changes, Triggerfish Drops, and Pompano Holes
03/04/2026
How to Fish the Transition—Trout Cadence Changes, Triggerfish Drops, and Pompano Holes
In this week’s Northwest Florida Fishing Report, host Joe Baya tees up an early spring transition with three quick-hit conversations—plus a reminder on the in Panama City Beach (March 6–8 at Aaron Bessant Park by Pier Park) for anyone ready to stop guessing and start stepping on boats. Joe starts inshore with in the Pensacola area to break down “messy middle” fishing: persistent negative tides, low water, and fronts that don’t always reset fish into a clean winter pattern. Evan explains what to hunt for on tough days (birds, bait, and depth changes near warming water), why slowing down and changing cadence can flip the switch on trout, and the simple gear approach he leans on in spring—20 lb braid with leader choices that match the lure and strike intensity. Next, Joe checks in with Capt. Harris Scruggs of out of Panama City on spring-break nearshore trips targeting triggerfish and vermilion snapper, with better beeliners showing on wreck edges. Harris shares the key triggerfish tip: fish your way down, watch for subtle “slow-down” bites on the drop, and get tight fast—plus when lighter hooks and smaller baits help clients actually stick fish. To wrap, Blake Hunter of says pompano are on the cusp, with big fish showing before the schools, and stresses that right now success is about beach structure—especially finding a productive hole or depression and soaking baits in the right water. He points to late March into early April as a prime window for the best odds along the Emerald Coast. Sponsors:
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Hilton’s “Eyes in the Sky” Wahoo Breaks and Pensacola Kayak Topwater Bite
02/26/2026
Hilton’s “Eyes in the Sky” Wahoo Breaks and Pensacola Kayak Topwater Bite
In this week’s Northwest Florida Fishing Report, host Joe Baya leans on two timely conversations to make sense of a windy, weather-scrambled week: offshore wahoo intel from and a Pensacola-area inshore kayak pattern that’s producing reds and trout during warm windows. Joe starts with Butch Thierry and Tom Hilton to talk “good wahoo water” for boats running out of Pensacola, Destin, and Panama City. Tom explains dialing in a wahoo temp range in the upper 60s into the 70s to make clean edges pop, then stacking the odds with water color, current, structure, and bait. They key in on Destin FADs and the Oriskany area, why even small temp breaks can matter when they’re tight and defined, and how current hitting contour can create the kind of feeding zone you want to fish. To wrap, Joe checks in with Brandon Barton of on a fun inshore bite: redfish and trout eating topwater well beyond first light when conditions warm up. Brandon breaks down his go-to spook-style baits, when he upsizes for ripple, and how he works saltwater chatterbaits through submerged grass in dirtier river water to trigger winter reds. He also shares how drone scouting is changing his view of where trophy-class trout and mixed schools are staging in shallow ICW water during midday warming periods, plus a quick look ahead to March kayak offshore opportunities for blackfin tuna and early-season reef fishing. Sponsors:
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Winter Grind to Spring Prep: Surf Gear, Boat Show Season, and Bay Trout
02/19/2026
Winter Grind to Spring Prep: Surf Gear, Boat Show Season, and Bay Trout
In this week’s Northwest Florida Fishing Report, host Joe Baya delivers a winter “real report” across the Panhandle with three key conversations: surf fishing, boat-show season, and a tough-but-producible inshore bay bite. On the surf side, Joe talks with Justin Reed of about February slowdowns and how to prep for spring—favorite rod lengths (9–10’ vs 12’), why he likes 5000-size reels for torque, and must-have surf tackle like Sputnik sinkers, pompano rigs, and sand fleas. They also preview boat season with Jim Cox in an rundown, covering what to expect at the show, why seeing boats in person matters, and the coastal-lifestyle vendors and seminars that make it a full family event. To wrap, Joe checks in with Justin Leake of on winter inshore fishing—focusing on protected bayous and deeper creeks for trout and redfish, using suspending jerkbaits to locate fish, and leaning on live shrimp when the bite gets picky as water temps start creeping toward spring. Sponsors:
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You’re Wearing Your Kill Switch Wrong, and It Could Cost You Your Life
02/12/2026
You’re Wearing Your Kill Switch Wrong, and It Could Cost You Your Life
In this week’s Northwest Florida Fishing Report, host Joe Baya and co-host Butch Thierry step away from the usual bite breakdown to deliver a wintertime episode that can save lives on the water. They focus on boating safety, complacency, and the small gear decisions that matter most when something goes wrong fast. On the safety side, they sit down with , owner of , who shares a firsthand account of a low-light boating collision in a bayou that ended with him ejected from the boat and suffering multiple hip fractures. Larry explains how quickly the situation developed, why being close to the bank in shallow water likely kept the outcome from being far worse, and how an Apple Watch became a critical communication tool when phones were lost in the chaos. They also dig into the biggest takeaway from the incident: you can be wearing a kill switch and still be wearing it wrong. Larry breaks down how his bungee-style lanyard looped around his wrist nearly failed to pull free, the importance of attaching the lanyard to a reliable point that will not rip out, and why testing your kill switch should be part of your routine. The episode closes with practical winter safety priorities—wearing a PFD you will actually keep on, keeping signaling gear accessible, and building habits that reduce risk no matter what other boaters do. Sponsors:
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Winter Offshore Flounder from a Kayak (60-Foot Reefs, Jigs, and Safety Tips)
02/05/2026
Winter Offshore Flounder from a Kayak (60-Foot Reefs, Jigs, and Safety Tips)
In this week’s Northwest Florida Fishing Report, host Joe Baya and co-host Angelo DePaola of mix fishing and Gulf Coast living, with Angelo sharing a quick update on the Northwest Florida real estate market and what buyers and sellers should be thinking about as 2026 gets underway. On the fishing side, they sit down with Brandon Barton of to break down offshore winter flounder fishing on nearshore reefs—an overlooked cold-season bite that can be done by boat or kayak. Brandon covers the depth range he targeted (roughly 50–65 feet), how to stay positioned on structure in wind and current, and how to read the subtle flounder bite and time your hookset. They also dig into the simple, effective tackle approach—bucktail-style jigs with durable strip bait like bonita, dialing in jig weight for solid bottom contact, and why a net matters for landing flounder consistently—then close with winter safety priorities and a reminder on stewardship when fish are stacked up offshore. Sponsors:
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Building the Fishery – Artificial Reefs with a Fisherman Who Dives Them
01/30/2026
Building the Fishery – Artificial Reefs with a Fisherman Who Dives Them
In this week’s Northwest Florida Fishing Report, host Joe Baya and co-host Butch Thierry sit down with of to talk artificial reefs, including how projects with can build private structure that improves the fishery and your bottom fishing long term. Kendall shares what he’s learned from both the wheelhouse and scuba diving his reefs, including what designs hold fish best, how fish often stage off the structure, and how long it takes a new reef to start producing. They also cover how to manage pressure so a hot spot stays hot, plus how to get started legally and how Reefmaker can handle permitting and deployment. Sponsors:
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Winter Fishing Success: Black Drum, Pompano, Redfish, and Offshore Action in Northwest Florida
01/21/2026
Winter Fishing Success: Black Drum, Pompano, Redfish, and Offshore Action in Northwest Florida
In this week’s Northwest Florida Fishing Report, we cover prime winter fishing on the Emerald Coast! Local expert Justin Reed with shares pro tips for surf fishing tactics targeting black drum and pompano near Pensacola. Capt. Blake Nelson of outlines tournament-winning redfish strategies in Choctawhatchee Bay. Offshore, Capt. Adam Peeples with details targeting red grouper, wahoo, dolphin, and blue marlin near Destin, with advice on live and dead bait, temperature breaks, and adapting to changing Gulf conditions. Whether you’re focused on beach, bay, or offshore action, get the latest winter fishing hotspots, gear recommendations, and seasonal techniques from top Northwest Florida captains. Sponsors:
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Inshore, Offshore & Surf Tactics for Pompano, Redfish, Sheepshead & Scamp Grouper
01/15/2026
Inshore, Offshore & Surf Tactics for Pompano, Redfish, Sheepshead & Scamp Grouper
In this week’s episode of the Northwest Florida Fishing Report, host Joe Baya is joined by top local captains and guides: Captain Tyler Massey of , Captain Evan Wheeler of , and surf fishing expert Blake Hunter from . The crew breaks down the best winter fishing tactics for inshore, offshore, and beach anglers from Pensacola to Panama City. Learn where and how to catch high-demand species like pompano, redfish, black drum, sheepshead, speckled trout, and scamp grouper this season, plus get pro tips on the best rigs, baits (live and artificial), and interpreting tides and weather—essential insights for targeting big winter fish. The show also discusses latest fishery updates, conservation-minded practices, and captain-recommended gear. Whether you’re planning a fishing trip or want to stay up to date on the Northwest Florida Gulf Coast scene, this episode offers actionable advice for success. Sponsors:
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Winter Fishing Report 2026: Inshore & Offshore Tactics with Top Guides
01/08/2026
Winter Fishing Report 2026: Inshore & Offshore Tactics with Top Guides
Join host Joe Baya as he kicks off the first Northwest Florida Fishing Report of 2026, featuring expert insights from top guides (Pensacola) and (Panama City). This episode covers essential winter fishing tips for inshore and offshore anglers, from targeting bull redfish around bridges and flats, to safety considerations for kayak fishermen during colder months. Learn the most effective live and artificial bait strategies for snapper, grouper, flounder, and scamp, and discover how changing weather patterns, tides, and wind conditions influence local fishing success. The discussion also spotlights the region’s growing artificial reef and FAD projects, fishery management best practices, and the ongoing transition towards sustainable fishing in Northwest Florida. Whether you fish Pensacola, Panama City, or anywhere along the Emerald Coast, this report offers actionable advice and high-impact techniques to help you make the most of winter fishing in Florida’s top angling destinations. Sponsors:
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Lessons From Those Who Save Lives: What Anglers Can Learn From Coast Guard Rescue Stories
01/01/2026
Lessons From Those Who Save Lives: What Anglers Can Learn From Coast Guard Rescue Stories
In this powerful episode, we sit down with Martha LaGuardia-Kotite, retired U.S. Coast Guard Captain, Harvard-educated author, and one of the first women to serve aboard all-male Coast Guard cutters. With a distinguished 29-year career spanning disaster response, homeland security, post-9/11 operations, and global missions, Martha shares firsthand insights from a lifetime dedicated to saving lives at sea. Drawing from her acclaimed book So Others May Live, the definitive account of U.S. Coast Guard rescue swimmers, Martha reveals what really happens during high-risk maritime rescues and how quickly routine days on the water can turn dangerous. She discusses the mindset, preparation, and split-second decision-making that rescue swimmers rely on—and how anglers and recreational boaters can apply those same principles to improve boating safety, situational awareness, and survival on the water. This episode explores essential boating safety lessons for anglers, including recognizing red flags before conditions deteriorate, avoiding common preventable mistakes, improving communication and leadership on fishing crews, and developing mental readiness whether fishing offshore, inshore, or solo. Beyond boating, Martha shares broader life lessons on courage, leadership, resilience, and preparedness—encouraging listeners to “Be Bold, Be First, Be You.” Sponsors:
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Christmas Special Top Fishing Gifts & Gear Guide 2025
12/22/2025
Christmas Special Top Fishing Gifts & Gear Guide 2025
Join hosts Joe Baya, Butch Theory, and Nick Williams for a special holiday episode of the Northwest Florida Fishing Report, presented by Great Days Outdoors Magazine. In this Christmas Special, the captains discuss the best fishing gift ideas and must-have angling gear for 2025, covering both freshwater and saltwater essentials. Listeners will discover expert recommendations on waders, filet knives, vacuum sealers, rain gear, polarized sunglasses, portable sonar, safety equipment, and more. The episode is packed with angler safety tips, reviews of top fishing products and brands like AFTCO and Stayput Anchor, with practical advice for both beginner and veteran anglers. Whether you’re looking for last-minute Christmas gifts for fishermen or want to upgrade your outdoor equipment, this fishing podcast has everything you need for a successful year on Alabama’s lakes and rivers. Sponsors:
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Fishing the Front: How Winter Weather Shapes Inshore Bites
12/19/2025
Fishing the Front: How Winter Weather Shapes Inshore Bites
Join host Joe Baya for the latest Northwest Florida Fishing Report as he welcomes (Pensacola inshore expert) and Captain Adam Peoples (Destin offshore specialist). Discover top winter fishing tactics, including how to target redfish, speckled trout, and more during cold fronts in Pensacola Bay. Learn the best bait choices, water conditions, and timing for successful trips. breaks down offshore fishing for big tuna, swordfish, and marlin off Destin, with essential tips on planning overnight trips, gear, and safety. Stay ahead with expert advice for both inshore and offshore anglers in Florida’s Gulf Coast. Subscribe for weekly fishing strategies, reports, and pro tips! The Northwest Florida Fishing Report is brought to you by Great Days Outdoors. Please subscribe, rate, and review wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to text NWFFR to (779) 345-2918 to join our email list and receive a promo code for an AFTCO camo sunglass cleaning cloth with any purchase. Sponsors:
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Winter Redfish & Trout Tactics, Destin Inshore & Pensacola Offshore Insights
12/12/2025
Winter Redfish & Trout Tactics, Destin Inshore & Pensacola Offshore Insights
Join host Joe Baya on the Northwest Florida Fishing Report for an action-packed episode featuring Captain Blake Nelson of Last Cast Charters in Destin and Captain Tyler Massey of Hot Spots Charters in Pensacola. Get expert insights on winter fishing in the Emerald Coast, including how to target redfish and trout on the flats, tournament strategies, bait and lure selection, and adapting to cold, changing weather. Offshore, Captain Massey shares the latest on Wahoo, tuna, scamp, and snapper fishing, plus tactics for success around local wrecks and fads. Whether you're planning an inshore charter in Destin, searching for Pensacola offshore fishing tips, or want to optimize your winter Gulf Coast fishing trips, this podcast covers it all. Perfect for anglers, charter fishing fans, and anyone seeking the best Florida fishing podcast. Sponsors:
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Kayak & Inshore Tips for Redfish, Trout, Flounder & Tuna in Panama City & Pensacola
12/04/2025
Kayak & Inshore Tips for Redfish, Trout, Flounder & Tuna in Panama City & Pensacola
Tune into this winter’s Northwest Florida Fishing Report as host Joe Baya teams up with Capt. Justin Leake with and Brandon Barton with for a deep dive into the season’s best fishing opportunities. Discover expert techniques for targeting redfish, speckled trout, and flounder in the bays, as well as offshore strategies for blackfin and yellowfin tuna—all optimized for winter conditions and cold fronts. Learn how changing weather impacts Panama City fishing and Pensacola fishing, with practical kayak fishing safety tips, bait selection insights, and expert advice on finding the most productive inshore and offshore spots. With tips on winter fishing tactics, artificial and live bait rigs, flounder regulations, and the advantages of kayak fishing, this episode is packed with actionable strategies for anglers throughout Northwest Florida and the Gulf Coast. Sponsors:
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Thanksgiving Winter Fishing Guide: Pensacola & Mobile Bay Tips from Expert Captains
11/28/2025
Thanksgiving Winter Fishing Guide: Pensacola & Mobile Bay Tips from Expert Captains
Join the Northwest Florida Fishing Report for a special Thanksgiving episode packed with winter fishing wisdom, conservation insights, and deep-dive discussions on what makes late-season angling across the Panhandle so unique. Host Joe Baya brings together Captain Evan Wheeler and Captain Patrick Garmason for an honest, expert-level breakdown of how to approach cold-water fishing in Pensacola, Mobile Bay, and the surrounding tributaries. This Thanksgiving special digs into the science and strategy behind winter fishing. Biologist and guide Evan Wheeler explains how dropping water temperatures affect fish metabolism, feeding behavior, and movement patterns — and how anglers can use that knowledge to stay one step ahead. Captain Patrick Garmason breaks down the nuances of fishing rivers, creeks, and deep water around Mobile Bay, offering practical tips on reading conditions, choosing the right tackle, and adjusting presentations as fish slow down. The discussion gets even deeper with a powerful segment on Release Over 20, where the captains discuss the biological importance of protecting larger trout, redfish, flounder, and even sheepshead. They walk listeners through proper handling, when to cut the line, when a fish can survive a deep hook, and the ethical mindset behind selective harvest — all backed by real science and decades of on-the-water experience. You’ll also hear detailed talk about rod and reel setups for deep winter structure, why mono sometimes beats braid, how to approach pressured winter fisheries, and the confidence baits both captains rely on when the bite gets tough. From slick lures and loop knots to feeding windows, solunar patterns, and the subtle differences between Florida and Alabama winter fisheries, this episode is loaded with insight. Whether you're gearing up for a cold-weather trout mission, trying to better understand winter fish behavior, or simply enjoying the holiday week with family, this Thanksgiving episode brings expert perspective, conservation values, and classic NWFFR storytelling all in one place.
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Pensacola–Destin Pompano, Redfish, Offshore Tuna & Real Estate Tips
11/20/2025
Pensacola–Destin Pompano, Redfish, Offshore Tuna & Real Estate Tips
Join host Joe Baya and a team of expert captains, including Angelo DePaola, Butch Thierry, Tom Hilton, Blake Hunter, and Captain Evan Wheeler, for the latest Northwest Florida Fishing Report. This episode covers inshore, offshore, and surf fishing conditions from Pensacola to Destin and Panama City, featuring hot bite updates for pompano, redfish, yellowfin tuna, and whiting. Learn expert techniques for targeting Gulf Coast fish using satellite data for altimetry, salinity, and sea temperatures. The captains discuss surf fishing strategy, winter trout and redfish tactics, and keys for finding trophy catches. Plus, get insider real estate tips for anglers seeking waterfront homes and boat-friendly properties along the Emerald Coast. If you’re looking for the most up-to-date Gulf Coast fishing forecast and expert advice, this episode delivers all the high-impact fishing trends, tips, and market insights you need. Sponsors
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Wahoo, Blue Marlin & Pompano Hotspots
11/14/2025
Wahoo, Blue Marlin & Pompano Hotspots
In this week’s Northwest Florida Fishing Report, host Joe Baya delivers an action-packed update on the hottest fall fishing in Destin and Pensacola. Offshore expert Captain Adam Peoples shares valuable insights on the exceptional Wahoo bite, Blue Marlin and swordfish action, plus pro tips for targeting yellowfin tuna and rig tactics in the Gulf of Mexico. Inshore, surf fishing guide Justin Reed breaks down the Pensacola pompano and whiting bite, offering the best strategies, beach locations, bait, and tackle tips for shoreline success. Whether you're after offshore giants or surfside slabs, get the latest Florida fall fishing news, forecasts, and techniques from top Gulf Coast captains. Sponsors
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Blackfin, Yellowfin & Bull Red Action
11/07/2025
Blackfin, Yellowfin & Bull Red Action
Join Host Joe Baya on this week’s Northwest Florida Fishing Report for an action-packed update from Pensacola to Panama City. Brandon Barton of reports an incredible run of Blackfin and Yellowfin tuna just off the beaches—some within casting range for kayak and pier anglers. Clean blue water and strong currents have pushed bait close to shore, fueling nonstop pelagic action. Brandon shares his go-to tactics, from trolling Yo-Zuri Crystal Minnows and Rapala X-Raps at sunrise to spotting slicks and diving birds that reveal feeding tuna. Inshore, breaks down the late-fall bite across Choctawhatchee Bay, where bull reds are schooling under pogies and speckled trout are holding in deeper guts. Blake explains how understanding bay contours and adapting to wind conditions can keep anglers on the fish, whether they’re tucked into a calm bayou or working the flats after a cold front. It’s a high-energy episode covering everything from kayak tuna tactics to inshore redfish patterns—prime time action across the Emerald Coast! Sponsors:
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Snapper Season, Blue Water Tactics, Pier & Kayak Action, and Expert Gear Tips
10/30/2025
Snapper Season, Blue Water Tactics, Pier & Kayak Action, and Expert Gear Tips
Jump into this week’s Northwest Florida Fishing Report for a comprehensive update on Gulf Coast angling action. Host Joe Baya is joined by Captain Adam Peeples to break down the current snapper season, east wind fishing strategies, and blue water tactics for marlin, swordfish, and tuna. Captain Blake Nelson delivers expert advice on adapting to fall cold fronts, targeting redfish and trout on the flats, and adjusting techniques for success in back bays and creeks. Pier and surfpro Matthew Isbels, better known the Bama Beach Bum, shares reports from Navarre, details on chasing Bonita and redfish from the pier, and offers up the latest on kayak action for Blackfin tuna and more. Finally, Kazuki Kitajima of Hayabusa USA uncovers the secrets of choosing the perfect sabiki rig for bait fishing. Whether you’re targeting state water snapper, venturing offshore, looking for the best live bait tactics, or fine-tuning your fall inshore fishing, this Florida fishing podcast delivers essential tips, gear strategies, and up-to-the-minute forecasts to help you succeed on the water. Sponsors
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