Ladyfish Fishing in Destin, Florida
Ladyfish are abundant during the warmer months and are a favorite for light tackle anglers looking for fast action. Though not good table fare, their acrobatic leaps and constant hits make them a fun catch, especially for kids and beginners.
Where to Catch Ladyfish
In the Destin area, ladyfish are commonly found:
Inshore bays and passes during baitfish runs
Along beaches and jetties in early morning and evening
Around bridges and sandbars holding mullet or glass minnows
Casting small flashy lures or jigs works well when schools are present.
Best Time to Fish for Ladyfish
| Season | Ladyfish Activity |
|---|---|
| Spring | Activity increases with baitfish nearshore |
| Summer | Excellent action inshore and along the beaches |
| Fall | Still strong while bait schools remain inshore |
Peak Season: May through September
Tackle & Tips
Lures: Small spoons, jigs, soft plastics, and topwater plugs
Bait: Live shrimp, small minnows, or cut bait
Leaders: 15–30 lb mono or fluorocarbon
Technique: Fast retrieves and erratic jigging trigger strikes
