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First Shot Charter Boats
Also listed in: Boat Rentals, Fishing Guides
Will Lady Luck shine on you in the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village?” Come and see for yourself aboard the First Shot, out of Destin, FL. She’s a 20’ Cape Horn center console that can fit up to 4 passengers per trip. Captain Mike Dates, the owner and operator, has been fishing the area waters since childhood. A native of the Destin area, he’s been a USCG-licensed captain for over 16 years.
First Shot specializes in fishing the coastal waters of the Gulf of Mexico as well as the back country waters of the Choctawhatchee Bay. In the gulf, your targets would be King Mackerel, Cobia, Blackfin Tuna, Sharks, Red Snapper, Grouper, Triggerfish, and much more depending on the season. The bay side is teeming with Trout, Redfish, Black Snapper, Flounder, Ladyfish and Bluefish.
Capt. Mike primarily uses live bait, but he can easily accommodate fly and artificial fishermen as well. All the equipment and supplies necessary to clean the fish will be provided, along with a seasoned guide who will be there to help along the way. As a matter of fact he will also be happy to clean the catch for you following the trip.
If you don’t want to keep the fish, Captain Mike is experienced in CPR fishing – “Catch, Photo, Release”. This way, you’ll ensure you do minimal harm to the fish you catch, which will then be safely released back into its natural habitat.
From the first-time angler to the skilled professional, Capt. Mike will do his best to keep you on the fish and put a smile on your face. All fishing equipment for your group is provided by the Captain, along with fishing licenses for all occupants of the boat, so you can relax and enjoy an incredible time fishing.
Thoroughly enjoy every trip of Captain Mike! He is very knowledgeable. Everything is provided to ensure a good trip. Captain Mike works hard to ensure we go to where we have the best chance to catch fish. I’ve been multiple times and have always had a good time. Our last trip we were able to catch Amberjack!
Capt. Mike is experienced and well equipped. Myself and 2 friends caught fish everywhere we went. Capt. Mike has a great sense of humor and friendly. We only had 33 keepers, (mingos, porgy, spanish, & trigger) but probably caught close to 70+ fish in 6 hours. Super fun trip.
We had a great day fishing yesterday, but the real reason for our 5-star review is Captain Mike. Punctual, gracious and determined, he didn't quit until we had our limit on red snapper. Because we were getting tired at the end of the day, he had to take extra effort to help us limit out. Never acted impatient. Cought grouper and a triple-tail to boot.
Filet'd and bagged our fish and we left tired and contented. One of our best days in a fishing boat, so, "Thank You", Captain Mike!LET 'ER RIP, TATER CHIP!!
Captain Mike was a very nice guy! He is a very honest guy as well. He told us upfront that the fishing may not be the greatest because of the weather conditions and it was our choice to go out or get a refund. We chose to go out anyway and we only caught 1 fish but had fun cruising around on a boat and seeing dolphins. We did not regret our decision. I would use him again on our next vacation!
What an awesome day! Captain Mike is very personable, knows the area and history well, and most importantly, can find the fish!! We caught amberjack, Almaco jack, mangrove snapper and a few others. He really tends to his guests and will do everything to make sure everyone has a great day of fishing the gulf!
Captain Mike is such a PRO! Every year in June we hit his secret bottom fishing spots and load the boat with snappers. He's a pleasure to be around, and does a great job putting you on the fish. If you're in Destin and want to fish, Captain Mike is THE MAN. Highly recommended!
We had a blast with Captain Mike!!! He defiantly knows what he is doing. Got our limit of red snapper and one of them was an absolute MONSTER! We will be back next year. Thanks again Captain Mike