Crab Island is one of Destin, Florida’s(opens in a new tab) most famous boating destinations. It’s known for its shallow, clear waters and abundant marine life. Fish thrive here because of Crab Island’s warm waters, estuaries, and protected habitats. Whether you are spending a relaxing day on a boat or embarking on a fishing adventure, you will likely see many unique species of fish swimming beneath the surface.
In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of fish that you might encounter while boating at Crab Island. We’ll also share tips on where to spot them and how to safely interact with them. Get ready to discover the underwater beauty of the Emerald Coast!
1. Inshore Fish (Near the Shore and Shallow Waters)
If you stay close to the shore around Crab Island, you’ll likely encounter these inshore species:
- Pinfish: These are small, shiny fish that often gather near docks and sandbars. Their sharp dorsal fins help protect them from predators.
- Spotted Seatrout: One of the most popular sport fish along the coast, these fish are usually found near seagrass beds and estuaries. They are known for the distinct black spots along their silver bodies.
- Redfish: Recognizable by their red-ish color and black tail spot, these fish are native to Florida and common in the shallow waters around Crab Island. They can live to be over 40 years old and grow up to 50 inches long!
- Flounder: These fish dwell at the bottom of the sea, where they often lie and wait to ambush their prey. They have a flat body and are masters of camouflage, changing their color to blend into the ocean floor.
2. Tropical Fish (Colorful Reef and Grass Bed Species)
Crab Island is home to many vibrant tropical fish. Its clear waters make it the perfect place to spot their shining colors. Some of the more colorful species include:
- Sergeant Major Fish: These fish get their name from their yellow and black stripes that resemble the traditional insignia of the military rank. They are small and often seen swimming near boat hulls and underwater structures.
- Parrotfish: These beautiful fish have vibrant colored scales and use their beak-like mouths to eat algae off coral reefs. Parrotfish play a role in creating white sand beaches by defecating calcium carbonate that’s ground up from coral and algae!
- Wrasse: Small and colorful, these striking fish love to dart around rocks and reefs, adding a splash of color to the underwater world. These fish often form cleaning stations, where they remove parasites from larger fish.
3. Game Fish (For Anglers and Sportfishing Enthusiasts)
These tough, aggressive fish are popular among avid fishing enthusiasts. Here are some sport fish that you may see around Crab Island that provide an exciting challenge:
- Spanish Mackerel: Fast and feisty, these fish are often spotted in schools and chase baitfish near the surface. They have a greenish back with silver sides and belly.
- King Mackerel: These fish are larger than a Spanish mackerel and are powerful and aggressive, making them a favorite among sport fishers. They can grow up to 5 feet long and weigh over 90 pounds!
- Jack Crevalle: Known for their strength and speed, these fish put up a fight and are usually seen cruising in open water.
4. Bottom Dwellers and Unique Finds
You’ll have to look closely at the ocean floor to catch a glimpse of these bottom dwellers and other unique species:
- Sheepshead: These fish are easily recognizable by their black stripes and human-like teeth. They often hang around docks, pilings, and rocky areas. They are sometimes called the “convict fish” due to their black-and-white striped pattern.
- Triggerfish: With their tough skin and bright colors, these fish are quirky and fun to watch. Their name comes from their “trigger” fin, which can lock in place to help them wedge themselves into crevices for protection.
- Grouper: These large fish are slow movers and prefer to hide in deeper areas near underwater structures. They have big mouths and are highly territorial.
5. Rays and Other Marine Sightings
In addition to fish, Crab Island boaters often come across friendly rays and other calm marine creatures:
- Southern Stingrays: These rays are gentle and love to glide along the sandy bottom of the sandbars. Their tails contain a venomous barb, which they use only for self-defense.
- Cow-nose Rays: Known for the distinctive shape of its forehead, these rays are calm, graceful swimmers. They are often seen in groups, creating mesmerizing patterns as they move through the water.
- Small Sharks: Many small and calm sharks will occasionally make an appearance, such as the Bonnethead Shark and the Sandbar Shark. These harmless species add to the excitement of marine wildlife viewing.
6. Best Spots to See Fish While Boating Around Crab Island
If you’re eager to see fish while exploring Crab Island, here are some great locations to take a look:
- Seagrass Beds: These are where many inshore species like to hide, such as trout, redfish, and tropical fish.
- Shallow Sandbars: Look here if you want to find schooling fish such as pinfish and sergeant majors.
- Near the Jetties: This rocky area is a great place to look for larger fish, such as mackerel and sheepshead.
For the best experience, bring snorkeling gear with you to help spot fish more easily.
7. Responsible Wildlife Viewing and Conservation Tips
It is important that we respect and take care of marine life. Here are a few tips of how to explore Crab Island’s waters responsibly and enjoyably:
- Avoid touching or disturbing fish and other marine life
- Practice catch-and-release fishing for certain species
- Follow local boating and fishing regulations
- Dispose of trash properly to keep the water and beaches clean and beautiful
- Slow down your boat speeds to avoid harming marine life and lift your motor in shallow waters to avoid tearing up seagrass beds
Embark on a Marine Adventure at Crab Island
Crab Island is not only a beautiful boating destination – it’s a haven for marine life. Whether you’re an avid fisherman or enjoy casual sightseeing, you’re bound to encounter some of these stunningly unique species that call these waters home. Seeing these beautiful creatures up close is a magical experience that you won’t forget.
Ready to explore Crab Island’s marine life for yourself? Rent a boat(opens in a new tab) today with Crab Island Watersports and experience the magic that the Emerald Coast has to offer.