Destin Fishing Rodeo Celebrates 75 Years of Tradition – Join the Excitement Starting October 1st!

Destin, Florida – Get ready to cast your lines and reel in the excitement as the Destin Fishing Rodeo returns to the Emerald Coast for its landmark 75th year! This beloved tradition, which has been a staple of Destin's cultural heritage, promises a month-long extravaganza of angling adventure, camaraderie, and thrilling competition. The 2023 Destin Fishing Rodeo is set to kick off on October 1st, and it's bound to be bigger and better than ever before

The Legacy Continues: 75 Years of Tradition

Established in 1948, the Destin Fishing Rodeo stands as Destin's longest-running and most cherished tradition. Over the decades, it has evolved into a world-renowned angling event that draws fishermen from all corners of the United States. Anglers of all ages gather in Destin for October, all in pursuit of the ultimate catch and the chance to etch their name into Rodeo history.

Daily Weigh-Ins and How to Participate

The heart of the Rodeo beats with daily weigh-ins that provide a captivating spectacle for participants and spectators alike. Anglers will have their catches weighed every day from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. The action unfolds on the docks behind AJ's Seafood and Oyster Bar. Learn more at AJ's website here, www.restaurantji.com/fl/destin/aj-s-seafood-and-oyster-bar-/

Participation is open to all, whether you're fishing from a private boat, charter boat, kayak, paddleboard, pier, bridge, jetty, or even from the shoreline. Here's how you can get in on the action:

●      Private boats and Charter boats: Register at least 24 hours before weighing a fish, and there's no entry fee for anglers on registered vessels.

●  Kayak fishing: Registration is required.

●  Paddle Board fishing: Registration is required.

●  Pier, Bridge, Jetty fishing: Registration is required.

●  Surf and Shoreline fishing: Registration is required.

Diverse Categories and Exciting Events

The Destin Fishing Rodeo has something for everyone. This year, anglers can compete in various categories, including divisions for women, seniors, and junior anglers. The leaderboard is brimming with opportunities to showcase your fishing prowess, whether you're after sharks, redfish, or any species in between.

Rodeo Run, Seafood Festival, and More

The excitement isn't limited to just fishing. While in Destin, be sure to check out other fantastic events like the Destin 5K Rodeo Run on October 8th, starting at Clement Taylor Park and benefiting the Miss Destin Scholarship Fund.

From October 6th to 8th, don't miss the 45th annual Destin Seafood Festival along the waterfront. It's a celebration of seafood, live music, and all things Destin – and admission is free!

Families, mark your calendars for the Kids Fall Movie Festival on October 9th at AJ's Seafood and Oyster Bar. Enjoy a free movie on the Jumbotron and treats for the little ones.

On October 16th, join us in celebrating Bruce Cheves Day, a day dedicated to the Rodeo's own weightmaster, who will be sharing his best fishing tales. Later in the day, at 5 p.m., we'll commemorate the lives and legends of those we've lost this year with the traditional Ringing of the Bell.

Finally, each October, the Larry Hatchett Fishing Foundation invites children from foster situations to fish and learn about marine habitats and environmental awareness. It's a heartwarming event that underscores the Rodeo's commitment to the community.

Halloween on the Harbor and Awards Ceremony

As October comes to a close, the Rodeo will culminate in a spooktacular fashion with Halloween on the Harbor. And the festivities continue into November with the prestigious 75th Annual Destin Fishing Rodeo Awards, where the champions will be crowned and celebrated for their angling prowess.

The Destin Fishing Rodeo is more than just a fishing tournament; it's a celebration of the rich maritime heritage of this beautiful coastal community. So, whether you're an avid angler or just looking for a great time by the sea, make your way to Destin, Florida, this October and be a part of history at the 75th Destin Fishing Rodeo! You’ll be able to learn more about the Destin Fishing Rodeo history and more in our fall edition of the Destin Florida Magazine! Stay tuned for more information coming soon.