From October 1st through the 31st, 2010, the 62nd annual Destin, Florida Fishing Rodeo is the place to be Silagra for avid fishermen and families alike. Over 30,000 anglers are set to descend upon this Florida town between the Gulf of Mexico and Choctawhatchee Bay. With more than $100,000 in cash and prizes, everybody from kids to seniors has a chance to win. Hire one of the numerous Destin, FL charter fishing boats or just stand along the pier and cast a line.

Nearly all types of fish, from king mackerel and red snapper to sharks and swordfish are recognized during the contest. Anglers of all ages and skill levels are welcome. Everyday throughout the festival weigh-ins take place. Prizes are awarded daily, weekly and at the end of the rodeo for the best overall catches.

In Destin deep sea fishing is a year-round affair. Charter boats take people out for big game fishing, snorkeling or scuba diving. Some outfits offer contests at other times of year, but the annual Fishing Rodeo is a special occasion that brings thousands of anglers and many more spectators who’re there to enjoy the festivities. While most come for the fishing, there are many other reasons to attend this year’s rodeo. Enjoy family-friendly activities like:

* Kid’s Kick-Off and Wagon Boat Parade

* Rock the Dock Kick-Off Party

* Seafood Festival

* Rootin’ Tootin’ Rodeo Round-Up

* Miss Destin Pageant

Daring anglers can go out on Shark Saturdays, when the biggest catch of the day lands a prize. Can anyone top the 638 pounder that was caught in 2007?

Every child who catches a fish 1 pound or more wins a rod, reel and a certificate. Special prizes are set aside for ladies, teens and seniors as well. The Miss Destin Pageant is open to high school girls age 16 to 19. It is not a beauty pageant, but a chance for young women to shine. The winner receives a $2,000 cash scholarship. Contestants are judged on GPA, communication, involvement in school and community as well as their overall personalities.

This year, with the Gulf oil spill, federal waters are not available for fishing, but Florida state waters are still open. Go with a registered charter boat and get free entry into the tournament, but book early because they fill up fast. Or, just stand on the pier, bridge or jetty and pay nothing. Check with different charter companies to see who offers the best prizes. In Destin, FL, the annual Fishing Rodeo gives everyone a shot at Destin-y.

Author Bio: Stephen Daniels is an acclaimed NetBiz SEO 2.0 researcher. If you’re interested in snorkeling in Destin, Florida, he recommends Pelican Adventures. With their safety-trained crew, you can experience Destin’s best snorkeling spots and even interact with local marine life with fish feedings and onboard petting tanks.

Category: Recreation and Leisure/Travel/Destinations
Keywords: Destin Fl charter fishing, Destin deep sea fishing, snorkeling