Brimming with biodiversity, Florida’s Gulf Coast is an angler’s paradise. The emerald-green waters of the Gulf provide a plentiful and distinct bounty, from grouper and snapper to mahi and swordfish. And with the variety of landscapes and ecosystems along the scenic 24 miles of Florida’s Scenic Highway 30A, seasoned anglers and first-timers alike will find a variety of spots–and ways–to cast a line.

To help you reel in a real good time, our team has rounded up some of our favorite fishing spots, locals’ tips and convenient places to stay.

Aerial view of a sandy beach with blue umbrellas, a coastal town, a narrow inlet, and calm ocean water under a clear sky.

Where to Cast a Line on 30A

Choctawhatchee Bay
Located just north of 30A, this expansive bay system blends freshwater from the Choctawhatchee River with the saltwater of the Gulf, creating an ideal habitat for redfish, speckled trout, flounder and black drum. The flats and grassy shorelines are hotspots for sight casting and fly-fishing.

Coastal Dune Lakes
Rare and ecologically significant, 30A’s dune lakes—including Western Lake, Eastern Lake and Lake Powell—are shallow, brackish systems that support both freshwater and saltwater species. Catch bass and bream on one cast, then redfish or trout on the next.

Grayton Beach State Park
This park offers easy access to both Western Lake and the Gulf and is one of the few places where beach boat launches are permitted. Whether you’re paddling a kayak into the lake or surf fishing for pompano and flounder, you’ll find excellent fishing here.Topsail Hill Preserve State Park
Topsail offers more than three miles of undeveloped beach and several freshwater lakes. Inshore anglers can fish the surf for whiting and pompano, while those with freshwater gear can head inland to target bass and panfish in Campbell Lake.

Surf Fishing Along 30A Beaches
Throughout the year, anglers line the beaches of Seagrove, Blue Mountain, Seacrest and Rosemary Beach, casting into the surf for pompano, Spanish mackerel, redfish and more varieties. Dawn and dusk are the best times for activity, and the views aren’t bad either!

Two people in light-colored clothes are fishing from the deck of a small boat on calm water near a shoreline with trees under a partly cloudy sky.

30A Locals’ Fishing Tips

  1. Licenses: A Florida fishing license is required for both freshwater and saltwater fishing.
  2. Best Times: Early morning and late evening are peak times for activity.
  3. Tackle Advice: Light to medium gear is ideal for inshore and surf fishing. Bring a sand spike and natural bait for the beach.
  4. Talk to the Locals: Bait shops and guides are great resources for up-to-date conditions and tackle suggestions.
A white motorboat with multiple passengers moves quickly across the water, leaving a wake behind it under a cloudy sky.
Point South Marina Port St. Joe lifestyle photos by Chandler Flint

Where to Stay for Your 30A Fishing Trip

When planning your 30A fishing getaway, the right accommodations can make all the difference in making the most of your angling adventures. Our St. Joe resorts offer luxurious comforts, unmatched amenities and ideal locations to access the area’s top fishing spots. They can also assist in connecting you with local bait shops, guides and other resources.

Camp Creek Inn
Perfectly positioned between the beach and bay, this boutique inn includes access to exclusive club amenities, pools, dining and a private beach club—ideal for recharging after a day on the water.

The Lodge 30A
Nestled near the trails of Point Washington State Forest and close to Eastern Lake, this hotel is a great fit for active anglers who want adventure by day and relaxation by night.

WaterColor Inn
Steps from the Gulf and bordering Western Lake, this beachfront retreat blends laid-back elegance with unbeatable access to surf and dune lake fishing.

Watersound Inn
Located within the gated Watersound Beach community, this serene escape is just minutes from the shoreline and a short drive to Choctawhatchee Bay.The Pearl Hotel
Set in the heart of Rosemary Beach®, The Pearl offers Gulf-front luxury with quick access to beach fishing, boutique shops and premier dining for a complete coastal experience.

Person standing in shallow turquoise water, casting a fishing line while several seabirds fly close by, with the ocean and sky in the background.

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Whether you’re casting from a dune lake, paddling into the bay or surf-fishing at sunrise, 30A is one of Florida’s most dynamic and beautiful fishing destinations. Pack your tackle box—and enjoy every relaxing, reeling and memory-making moment.

Camp Creek Inn, The Lodge 30A, The Pearl Hotel, WaterColor Inn & Resort, Watersound Inn

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Details included in this story were accurate at time of publication but are subject to change based on seasonal schedules, amenity and/or operational updates. For the most current information, please visit the respective property’s website.