Fall Fishing Fun at Bluewater Bay Marina

Tucked along the north shore of Choctawhatchee Bay in Niceville, Bluewater Bay Marina is one of those hidden coastal gems every angler should know about. Just three miles north of the Intracoastal Waterway and seven miles from Destin, it’s the perfect launch point for a fall fishing adventure—whether you’re a weekend caster or a seasoned pro chasing redfish glory.

With more than 120 boat slips, Bluewater Bay Marina offers easy dockage, full amenities and the kind of relaxed, “locals-only” vibe that makes you want to linger. The docks are equipped with 110/30-amp and 220/50-amp power, on-site fuel, free pump-out service and bagged ice (because every great fishing story begins with a cold drink and ends with a chilled catch).

Inside the Ship Store, anglers will find everything from nautical hardware, clothing, tumblers, sandals, eyewear, snacks, drinks, toiletries, sundries, clothing, souvenirs and galley goods. Seasonal live bait is available on premises and you can even grab your fishing or hunting license at the dry storage facility before heading out. And when you return, showers, laundry, Wi-Fi and a courtesy car await—because catching fish shouldn’t mean roughing it.

Add experienced local staff, night-marked channels for safe entry, and a view that never gets old, and you’ve got the makings of a perfect base camp for your fall fishing run.

November on the Bay—Reds, Trout & Flounder, Oh My!

When the Gulf breeze cools and the summer crowds fade, Choctawhatchee Bay lights up with some of the best fishing of the year. November brings redfish, speckled trout and flounder into prime action, and the waters around Choctawhatchee Bay are teeming with opportunity.

Redfish (Red Drum) are the undeniable headliners this time of year. You’ll find them tailing on shallow flats or schooling along deeper channels. The bull reds—those copper giants that make your drag sing—are especially active in fall.

Not far behind are the speckled trout (spotted seatrout), cruising grass edges and shallow bays in schools. They’re ideal for anglers who like a little fast action and plenty of top water strikes.

And don’t overlook the flounder, those clever ambushers that blend perfectly into sandy bottoms. November is one of the top months to target them in the Bay as they migrate toward deeper water for winter.

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Sheepshead and black drum also make solid supporting cast members, especially around bridges, pilings and rocky structure.

Pro Fall Fishing Tips

• Fish the transitions. Work the edge where shallow flats drop off into deeper water.
• Watch the tides. Moving water brings bait—and the predators that follow.
• Go live, stay light. Live shrimp, minnows and soft plastics keep bites consistent.
• Mind the weather. Cooler mornings call for layers, and a thermos never hurts.
• Use the Marina as home base. Launch early, return for lunch at LJ Schooners and clean your catch before sunset.

Whether you’re chasing your next trophy or teaching the kids to cast, fall at Bluewater Bay Marina offers all the makings of a classic, no fuss, memorable fishing day—bright skies, calm water and plenty of local know-how.

So, grab your tackle, check the tide chart, and meet us at 290 Yacht Club Drive in Niceville. Call to book your slip at (850) 897-2821. The fish are biting, the ice is cold and the stories are just waiting to be told.