Ultimate Guide to Fishing Navarre Beach, Florida – Tips, Locations & Local Insights
Everything You Need to Know About Fishing in Navarre Beach
Whether you’re casting from the surf, fishing the pier, or heading out on a guided inshore charter, Navarre Beach, Florida is a fisherman’s paradise. This complete guide covers everything from seasonal tips and gear recommendations to shore fishing access points and expert advice from local pros.
Nestled along the Florida Panhandle between Destin and Pensacola, Navarre offers miles of coastline, the calm waters of the Santa Rosa Sound, and quick access to the Gulf of Mexico. With its uncrowded beaches and diverse ecosystems, it’s no wonder anglers flock here all year long.
Why Navarre Beach is a Premier Fishing Destination
Navarre Beach combines easy public access, calm water systems, and a year-round variety of fish species. It’s ideal for:
- DIY surf and pier fishing
- Kayak and paddle fishing
- Charter boat adventures
- Sight fishing and fly fishing
The local mix of marshes, grass flats, bridges, and deep Gulf access makes this one of the most versatile fishing destinations in Florida.
Top Public Fishing Spots in Navarre Beach
✅ Navarre Beach Fishing Pier
The Navarre Beach Fishing Pier is Florida’s longest pier at 1,545 feet and gives anglers deepwater access without a boat.
Fish Species: Spanish mackerel, king mackerel, pompano, cobia, redfish, flounder, and more.
Tip: Spring and fall are prime for cobia and bull reds. Use trolley rigs or live bait.
✅ Santa Rosa Sound Access
Just north of the beach, the Santa Rosa Sound offers calm water and shallow grass flats ideal for wading, fly fishing, or kayak fishing.
Fish Species: Redfish, speckled trout, flounder, black drum, sheepshead.
Best Bait: Live shrimp under a popping cork; soft plastics early morning.
✅ Navarre Causeway & Bridge
The bridge and its pilings are productive year-round and perfect for targeting flounder, sheepshead, and black drum. Use drop-shot rigs and live shrimp.
Tip: Fish the shadow lines at night with glow lures or live bait.
✅ Navarre Beach Marine Park
This park offers easy access to both the Gulf side and Sound side. Ideal for families, it has walkways, piers, restrooms, and scenic flats.
What You’ll Catch: Pompano in the surf, redfish and trout on the Sound side.
✅ Juana’s Pagodas Dock Area
Near the Navarre Causeway, this area has calm waters and a relaxed vibe. Target trout and drum near dock pilings. Great for kids and beginners.
Best Seasons to Fish Navarre Beach
Fishing here is great year-round, but here’s what to expect by season:
Spring (March–May)
- Cobia run nearshore
- Spanish mackerel arrive in big schools
- Sheepshead gather around bridges and pilings
Summer (June–August)
- Early morning is best for trout and redfish
- Sharks and jack crevalle roam nearshore
- Pier action heats up with mackerel and ladyfish
Fall (September–November)
- Bull redfish invade the Sound and beaches
- Trout move back into shallows
- Prime time for flounder
Winter (December–February)
- Calm water and great sight fishing
- Sheepshead and drum congregate
- Mild weather keeps fishing comfortable
Best Bait and Tackle for Navarre Beach
Live Bait: Shrimp, mullet, sand fleas
Artificial Lures: Topwater plugs, soft plastics, bucktail jigs
Fly Fishing: Clousers, shrimp patterns, gurglers
Suggested Rod & Reel Setup:
- 7’ medium-light spinning rod
- 10–20 lb braid with 20 lb fluorocarbon leader
- Size 1/0–3/0 circle hooks
Shore Fishing Bonus Tip: Use a surf rod with 2–4 oz weights and double-drop rigs for pompano, whiting, and redfish.
Should You Hire a Fishing Charter in Navarre?
While shore fishing is fun and affordable, a local fishing charter unlocks the best fishing opportunities:
- Access to prime spots not reachable on foot
- Learn expert techniques for redfish, trout, and flounder
- No need to bring gear or worry about licenses
- More consistent action and larger fish
We highly recommend Showintail Inshore Charters—they offer family-friendly guided trips with expert captains.
Navarre Fishing Licenses & Regulations
- Shore Fishing: A Florida saltwater fishing license is required for adults (can be purchased at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com)
- Pier Fishing: License included in entry fee
- Charters: License is included when fishing with a guide
Always check the latest FWC regulations before keeping any fish.
Local Fishing Stores in Navarre
- Half Hitch Tackle – Navarre: Live bait, tackle, and gear rentals
- Gulf Breeze Bait and Tackle: Family-run shop with friendly advice
- Holley Bait and Tackle: Basic rods, tackle, and frozen bait
Night Fishing in Navarre Beach
Nighttime fishing from the pier or beach can be extremely productive. Use glow lures, cut bait, or fresh shrimp to target:
- Black drum
- Speckled trout
- Flounder
- Sharks (catch-and-release only)
Book a Nighttime Shark Fishing Charter
Fly Fishing Navarre’s Flats
Navarre’s shallow grass flats and creeks are perfect for fly anglers.
- Target redfish early morning on calm days
- Use an 8-weight fly rod with floating line
- Sneak up slowly—sight casting is best!
Fly Fishing Charters Available
Compare Half-Day vs Full-Day Trips
| Trip Type | Half-Day (4 Hours) | Full-Day (8 Hours) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Duration | 4 hrs | 8 hrs |
| Travel Range | Local flats & bridges | Multiple zones |
| Target Species | Redfish, trout | Sharks, big drum, cobia |
| Ideal For | Families, kids | Avid anglers, explorers |
FAQs – Navarre Fishing Tips
Q: What’s the best month to fish Navarre?
A: October and November offer the best action for redfish, trout, and flounder.
Q: Can I fish in Navarre without a boat?
A: Absolutely! The pier, causeway, and multiple beach spots offer great shore fishing opportunities.
Q: What fish are biting in the summer?
A: Redfish, trout, Spanish mackerel, ladyfish, and sharks are active all summer long.
Q: Where’s the best place to fish with kids?
A: Try the Santa Rosa Sound or book a 2-hour family charter for calm waters and easy bites.
Final Thoughts: Fishing Navarre Beach Like a Local
Navarre Beach offers world-class fishing with a laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re dropping a line from the pier, exploring the flats with a fly rod, or booking a professional charter, this area has it all.
🎣 Want the best chance at success? Trust a local guide from Showintail Inshore Charters. Their expert captains, flexible trip lengths, and local knowledge ensure every trip is productive and fun.
📲 Book your Navarre fishing trip today or call 850-582-3474.