BOAT SOUTH Magazine by BOAT SOUTH Magazine

SEE WHAT’S OUT THERE

Jeff Watson Founder & Pulisher jeff@boatsouth.com

Whitley Dunn

Creative Director & Graphic Designer whitley@boatsouth.com

Dara Parker Graphic Designer

Contributing Writers

Will Estell

Mark Hotz

Megan Riddle

Kayla Burleson

Steven Heuval

Jeff Watson

Emily Heartsell Sales Representative

Photographers

Matt Christopher Whitley Dunn

Jeff Watson

Olivia Quave

Kaydee Alritton

Savannah Rollins Sales Representative

BOAT SOUTH 2078 Hwy 98, A105 Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 (731)-616-2628

LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER

Boat Show season is here which means weekends on the water are just around the corner. We are thrilled to participate in many of the area boat shows from Panama City, to Destin, Pensacola, Orange Beach and Mobile. As we do, we will reach thousands of water lovers who love the boating and shing lifestyle along the Gulf Coast. So at this point, if you read our premier issue of BOAT SOUTH Magazine last fall, go ahead and turn the page as this article will be repetitive. Since so many copies of this boat show issue will land in the hands of rst time readers, I wanted the opportunity for them to know the history and purpose of the launch of this magazine.

It began at a young age, love for the water and a fascination with boats. Boating, shing camping… it was instilled in me early on. Around 7, I learned to water ski on the Tennessee River, a hobby I grew to love and enjoy for many years. I remember dreams of skiing Cypress Gardens. While I never got close, I did become comfortable at 22’ o on our local lake’s slalom course. If not on my Jobe, I most likely had a Zebco 33 in my hands. Brim, Crappie, Bass, Cat sh…it didn’t matter back then as long a something was on the end of my line.

Obviously, by the species mentioned, this was all fresh water fun. As an early teen, Florida became a favorite travel destination for my family so the introduction to salt, bigger waters and larger boats began. My parents joked that we always had to stop at marinas we passed on our travels to “walk the docks.” e love for boats was always there and would only grow with age.

Let me now mix in career a little. I won’t go into details but in general those wonderful parents I mentioned, my late father Bill and my always supportive mother Donna, as they say, spent a lot of money for me to be a stock broker only to ultimately play with magazines. While I’m still fascinated with trading the market, it was a little magazine “Auto Show” I published in college that would bring me full circle 15 years later. In 2003, my younger brother Jason and I launched the rst VIP Magazine in our hometown Jackson, TN.

The concept quickly began to grow as we partnered with other publishers to grow the VIP brand. While I could literally write a book about the next 20 years, it basically looks something like 6 states, 14 magazine launches, 900 plus issues, 8 million copies and roughly 30 million readers. This involved a lot of wonderful and dedicated staff, family and publishing partners while creating a lifetime of memories along the way!

One of those early launches that would impact me for life was VIP Pickwick Lake Magazine in 2003. It was where I really cut my teeth in the boating world having the privilege to work and travel with my friend, David Woods and Pier 57 O shore Racing. e other title I launched in 2013 that would have the ultimate in uence on my path was VIP Destin Magazine. A er years and many miles of back and forth, Maggie and I nally moved to Santa Rosa Beach in early 2020. While unforeseen circumstances that year may have delayed the ultimate goal, it would not be denied. I say all of this so you may understand why having the privilege to combine my love for boating and publishing into the launch of “BOAT SOUTH Magazine” is truly a blessing and a dream come true.

BOATSOUTH.com was one of hundreds of domains I purchased back in the day of my obsession with .coms. I always knew it was special and hoped someday I could develop a product around it and that day has nally come. e vision for BOAT SOUTH is to provide boaters, shermen and water lovers along the Gulf Coast a product that ultimately encompasses all. From kayaks to sport shing yachts and everything in between, the love for anything nautical is the common line!

The 2024 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) took place from October 30 to November 3 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, showcasing one of the largest and most diverse collections of boats and yachts in the world. Known as the “Yachting Capital of the World,” The show is owned by the Marine Industries Association of South Florida (MIASF) and produced by Informa Marketsow. Fort Lauderdale is the perfect host for this grand event, which attracts boating enthusiasts, luxury lifestyle a cionados, and industry professionals globally.

While I have attended the Miami international Boat Show in February many times over the past twenty years, I must admit this was my rst experience at the infamous FLIBS ve day event and it did no disappoint! The show offered not only an impressive display of boats but also a vast array of marine products and accessories to enhance the nautical lifestyle. From yacht builders and designers to exotic cars and brokerage yachts, this show has something for everyone.

Superyacht Village: Located at Pier 66, this exclusive area features some of the largest and most luxurious yachts, with vessels over 300 feet in length, including oating palaces equipped with helipads, in nity pools, and more.

diverse boat displays: over 1,300 boats are on display including center

watercraft, ensuring options for every interest and budget.

Luxury Lifestyle Exhibits: Beyond boats, FLIBS offers high-end lifestyle products, including luxury cars, jewelry, art, and private jets, creating a complete luxury experience.

for Attending the 2025 Show Oct

29- Nov2

1. Plan Ahead: The event spans multiple venues with over 3 million square feet of exhibits. Use the FLIBS app to map out your visit. I recommend one day to thoroughly see the Convention Center indoor portion alone, and 1 to 2 days for the expansive on-water exhibits.

2. Uber or shuttle from your hotel, do not drive as parking can cost $100 a day if you are lucky enough to nd a spot. The show provides water taxis to navigate the venues along Fort Lauderdale’s scenic waterways.

3. VIP Experiences: Consider VIP tickets for exclusive lounges, private yacht tours, and concierge services.

4. Explore Fort Lauderdale: Enjoy local beaches, fabulous waterfront dining, and nightlife for entertainment.

5. Tickets can be purchased online, and it’s advisable to book in advance for the best deals. The show will also provide water taxis to navigate the venues along Fort Lauderdale’s scenic waterways.

ST. JUDE TRIPLE CROWN FIGHTING CHAIR CHALLENGE

IS A FAVORITE WITH SPECTATORS ON OPENING NIGHT

The 2024 Blue Marlin Grand Championship, held in July at The Wharf Marina in Orange Beach, Alabama, showcased an intense competition among top sport shing teams. The event begins Wednesday with a kick off after-party at the Wharf featuring one of the highlights of the evening, the St. Jude Triple Crown Fighting Chair Challenge at The Boat Bar. Thursday morning at 10am is a photographers dream as boats depart the marina for the noon shotgun start to over 48 hours of intensive offshore challenges and excitement. Teams travel hundred of miles over the course of three days looking for the elusive blue to top the scales on Saturday for a six- gure payout.

This year’s tournament resulted in a Gulf of Mexico record of 132 bill sh caught, solidifying its reputation as The Greatest Show in Sport shing. Less than one hundred pounds separated the top 4 with only 3.4 lbs between 1st and 2nd and an amazing .6 lbs securing 3rd place. Miss Ma’am was the rst to bring a marlin to the scales for the weekend and was able to hold on to take the win with its impressive 650.4 lb Blue Marlin. The tournament also saw a new record 197.8 lb tuna by Rising Sun.

A

GULF OF

MEXICO

RECORD OF 132 BILLFISH CAUGHT!

Team Supreme secured the 2024 Gulf Coast Triple Crown Championship for the second consecutive year, marking the rst back to back win since 2012-2013. The team’s achievements included rst place nishes in the Catch and Release divisions at the Orange Beach Bill sh Classic and the Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic along with second place nish in the Catch and Release division at the Blue Marlin Grand Championship. This year’s tournament set new records and further cemented its status as one of the most prestigious sport shing events in the Gulf of Mexico. The 2025 Blue Marlin Grand Championship is scheduled for July11-12.

BOAT

Championship Results

First Place: Miss Ma 650.4 pound Blue Marlin

Second Place: Intense 647 pound Blue Marlin

Third Place: Briar Patch 577.6 pound Blue Marlin

Fourth Place: Devotion 577 pound Blue Marlin

Catch and Release Division

First Place: Lifeline 10 Bill sh releases 7 Blue Marlin, 3 White Marlin

Second Place: Team Supreme 7 Blue Marlin releases

Third Place: Cold Motion 5 Blue Marlin and 2 White Marlin releases

Record Number of Billﬁsh Caught

106 Blue Marlin

14 White Marlin

12 Sail sh

Total 132 Bill sh

The Art of the Show

By: Will Estell

FROM MARINA MANAGEMENT TO BOAT SHOWS AND TOURNAMENTS INDUSTRY VETERAN SCOTT BURT TALKS GULF COAST BOATING

Whether you’re new to the Gulf Coast boating scene, or you’ve been a participant for decades, its likely you’ve heard of, or been to, one or more of boating entrepreneur Scott Burt’s marinas, boat shows or tournaments. Burt is a highly respected pioneer within the realm of the marina management industry, based in Panama City Beach, Florida and covering the entire Gulf Coast and beyond. With over 55 years of professional experience, he’s learned the ropes and exercised his extensive knowledge across multiple facets of the boating world -particularly along the beach communities of Northwest Florida’s and Alabama’s Gulf Coast.

Scott’s long repertoire spans yacht and commercial vessel operations, yacht brokerage, harbor and marina ownership and management, waterfront development, fishing tournaments, and

special event promotion. Scott’s career is marked by his innovative approach and dedication to integrating upland amenities with marina operations, creating a seamless and enjoyable experience for boat-ers and marina users alike.

When it comes to industry leadership and recognition Scott Burt’s contributions to the marina industry have been widely recognized. He has maintained an active membership in the Association of Marine Industries since 1985 and has served as Director of the Northwest Florida Marine Industries Association.

Additionally, he has served on the steering committee with the State of Florida Department of Environmental Protection to create the widely recognized and acclaimed certified Clean Marina Program and has also served as Chairman of the Northwest Florida

Marine Trades Association. During his term as Chairman membership in the association grew by 20% and continues to maintain strong and growing membership numbers due, in part, to his leadership efforts.

Even with all of his accomplishments, as far as I could tell during the time he and I spent talking, Scott is showing no signs of slowing down, and even has plans to grow beyond the ten marinas CMM now manages, as well as potentially adding another boating show in time.

Following are some questions and answers from my conversation with Scott Burt, offering a little more insight into the man behind Coastal Marina Management, Wheels Up Events, and the concepts and mindset that keep it all afloat:

Tell me a little about how you got started in the boating industry and what brought you to found Coastal Marina Management.

I’ve always been in it from one aspect to another. This is my 55th year in it. That’s

“I had always had a fascination with boating, and our beautiful Gulf waters.”

scary, isn’t it? We are still relatively small, we operate ten marinas from St. Thomas to Northwest Florida to Alabama. I began working at a well-known marina in Panama City, cleaning bathrooms, taking out the trash, and just doing anything and everything that no one else wanted to do [laughing].

I had always had a fascination with boating, and our beautiful Gulf waters. I was so drawn to the boating lifestyle and what it looked like that I really couldn’t imagine doing anything else. Some time went by, school came and went, one thing led to another, and I found myself running Bay Point Marina in Panama City Beach. I was lucky to have an owner who also let me broker yachts on the side, while carrying on the day-to-day duties of managing his busy marina. During that time I also started the Bay Point Tournament, along with Bill Span, back in 1984.

After some years of managing a few marina’s, I founded Coastal Marina Management (CMM) in 2006. The goal with this company was to take what

we had learned and create a company dedicated to providing effective and creative management solutions for marinas anywhere.

What exactly does your company provide for the ten marinas you currently manage or have partnerships in?

Coastal Marina Management provides realistic management programs and daily operational over-sight based on today’s ever-changing marina needs and customer expectations. CMM is known for welltrained, efficient and motivated employee teams. We basically maximize productivity while minimizing the marina’s waste.

We also offer creative marketing and promotional plans focused on introducing new customers to your facility while retaining existing members, with special events based on fun, familycentered ways to enjoy and participate in the boating lifestyle. The most important part of it all, in all we do the customer experience.

Besides the ten marinas you also have an event management company which puts on the Emerald Coast Boat Show and The Wharf Boat Show, as well as ﬁshing tournaments, right?

That’s right, Will. Our event arm, Wheels Up Events is a partnership with my friend, Chris Miller. Chris is the spark plug behind that company. He and I developed a friendship many years ago and its grown into a great business. Chris loves to produce these events and he is very good at it.

What is it like to found, maintain, and grow two of the most successful boat shows in our Gulf Coast Region?

You know, Will, what Chris and I have learned is that though all boaters know about the big boat shows like Miami, Palm Beach and others, the real action, the real buying, happens at these smaller regional shows, and that is where everyone really moves the most product. Sure, the glamour and glitz is going to be in Fort Lauderdale or Miami, but the faceto-face interaction and relationships are built at these shows we do like Emerald Coast Boat Show and The Wharf Boat Show. Chris and I kind of stumbled onto

a formula that serves us well. We welcome kids, pets, families, and our shows are very results driven. People sell boats at our shows.

Would you say that people want to buy from people close to them, and build relationships with local shows and vendors?

I think you hit it exactly. Chris may say it best when he says, “You buy where you boat.”

It sounds like whether it be your tournaments or your boat shows, you are creating a one-of-a-kind event that can even be enjoyed by someone who may not be an avid ﬁsherman or boater. Do you see your events as a kind of introduction to the boating lifestyle at times?

Absolutely! It’s a social event. In fact, I have invited numerous people who don’t fish or own a boat to our shows, and they often tell me what a remarkable experience it was for them, and how much they enjoyed it and want to come back.

How much of a growth mode are you in when it comes to taking on more marina projects, wheth-er for management, or ownership?

We have quite a few opportunities we are looking at right now. We do a good amount of consulting for marina owners and management. In fact, we are looking at a new management project on the Texas coast, as well as some of the new municipal marinas coming to fruition on the Gulf Coast.

It’s interesting because I think one thing that is helping us is that there seems to

be a turn of sorts, where people [owners] are looking for smaller more personable management companies, like ours, as opposed to these big conglomerates who can’t offer the individual attention that we can. We are a small company. I own Coastal Marnina Management 100%, and it’s a debt free company. I think a lot of owners and developers can appreciate that personable one-on-one relationship. If they have an issue, or question, they call me. I may own the company, but I am their guy.

To find out more about Coastal Marina Management visit: www.coastalmarinamanagement.com or call (850) 233-1633

Writers Bio:

Will Estell is a writer, editor, media entrepreneur, and coastal real estate expert with over 700 published works. From tourism, music, and real estate articles to automobile reviews, boating, fashion pieces and numerous celebrity interview features Will Estell’s writing has appeared in magazines and papers around the country for over two decades. Will is currently the Chief Creative Officer of Estell Hussey Media, LLC, and over the past 27 years has been instrumental in creating and co-founding 13 magazine startups from concept to fruition, as well as serving as editor in chief for others. Originally from rural Booneville Mississippi, Will is a father of three who splits his time between the beach communities of Destin and Navarre Beach Florida, along with his wife -WEAR ABC 3 Pensacola news anchor- Laura Hussey Estell. Will is a regular contributor Boat South Magazine.

EMERALD COAST BOAT SHOW

The Emerald Coast Boat Show is held in Panama City Beach, Florida. This show is much more than just a display of boats, as you will ﬁnd golf carts, LSVs, bikes, boards, and all types of watersports related accessories, gear, and apparel. The show also features a wide range of activities and exhibits that cater to outdoor enthusiasts and boating aﬁcionados alike, including live music.

DATES AND LOCATION:

The 2025 show will take place from February 28 to March 2 at Aaron Bessant Park.

THE WHARF BOAT AND YACHT SHOW

The Wharf Boat and Yacht Show is a premier annual event held at The Wharf in Orange Beach, Alabama. This show is renowned for being one of the top boat-buying events in the Northern Gulf, attracting marine enthusiasts from all over the country.

DATES AND LOCATION:

The 2025 show will take place from March 21 to March 23.

EXHIBITS AND ACTIVITIES:

The show features over $100 million in boats and marine products on display. Attendees can explore 120 wet-slip boats and yachts, alongside over 700 center and dual-console boats showcased on land. The event also includes instructional seminars, live music, food vendors, and kids’ activities. One of the unique attractions is the Triple Crown Fighting Chair Challenge, which raises money for St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

The 76th Annual Destin Fishing Rodeo took place from October 1 to October 31, 2024, in Destin, Florida, continuing a tradition that began in 1948. This monthlong event attracted anglers from across the nation, all vying to catch the largest sh across various categories. Daily weigh-ins were held from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM at AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar on the Destin Harbor Boardwalk, offering both participants and spectators a chance to witness impressive catches. The Rodeo featured multiple divisions, including categories for junior, teen, ladies, and senior anglers. Prizes were awarded daily, weekly, and for overall performance, encompassing a wide range of sh species. Miss Destin 2024 Reagan Magee was on hand for photos along with Helen Donaldson, Executive Director.

Charter Boat: Allen Staples - 100 Proof

Extended Voyage: Travis ReamLady Em

Party Boat: Aaron Finkley - Destin

Princess

Charter Under 26’: Scott Whitehurst - On e Bite

Private Boat: Andrew Dover - Muscle

Memories

Private Boat Under 26’: James Dexter - Dei Gratia

BOAT SOUTH / 2024 Destin Fishing Rodeo

In addition to the shing competitions, the Rodeo hosted various community events including the Destin 5K Rodeo Run, the Kids Wagon Parade, the Rootin Tootin Rodeo Roundup and AJ’s BIG MAC Classic. October 16 was designated as Bruce Cheves Day, honoring the long-time Rodeo weigh-master known for his captivating shing tales.

The event concluded with an awards ceremony on November 6, 2024, at AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar, where top anglers, captains, and mates were recognized for their achievements in a festive gathering. A complete list of hundreds of winners can be viewed at www. destin shingrodeo.org. The Destin Fishing Rodeo not only celebrates the rich shing heritage of the area but also signi cantly contributes to the local economy by attracting numerous visitors during the fall season. Plans are already underway for the 77th Annual Destin Fishing Rodeo in October 2025, promising another exciting month of shing and community events.

ECBGFC SPORTSMAN’S BALL

The Emerald Coast Big Game Fishing

Club (ECBGFC) has quickly become a

cornerstone of the sportfishing community

in Destin, Florida. With its strong focus on

education, conservation, and competitive fishing,

the club hosts various tournaments and events

throughout the year, attracting both seasoned

anglers and newcomers to offshore fishing.

2024 was an incredible year for the young

club, ending with the Sportsman's Ball ™We look

forward to making memories in this upcoming

4th year since inception Thank you to our

sponsors, anglers, team members, and the entire

community for the continued support said

ECBGFC founder, Crystal LaFosse.

U.S. Presidents and Their Love for Boating: A Historical Look

Boats have served as more than recreational tools for U.S. presidents—they’ve been venues for diplomacy, relaxation, and even heroism. Whether sailing a ketch, piloting a speedboat, or paddling a skiff, presidents have long sought solace and inspiration on the water. Their boating legacies remain a fascinating chapter in American history. Here are some of Presidents who loved the water in a variety of ways and vessels:

George Washington

Boat: A small ferryboat for crossing the Potomac River. George Washington operated a commercial ferry service across the Potomac River before becoming president. This early experience with boats was more functional than leisurely but highlights his connection to the water.

Boat: A skiff (small rowboat). Jefferson was known to row a skiff along the Rivanna River near Monticello. He appreciated the tranquility of the water and saw it as an extension of his interest in nature and exploration.

Thomas Jeﬀerson

Boat: Sequoia, a 104-foot wooden motor yacht built in 1925 by John H. Mathis & Company. Nixon often used the Sequoia for private meetings, personal re ection, and political strategy sessions. It was aboard this yacht that Nixon decided to resign from the presidency in 1974, marking a somber chapter in its storied history.

Franklin D. Roosevelt

Boats: Larooco, a 32-foot ketch-rigged sailboat.

Missy, a small sailboat he used during his youth. FDR was an avid sailor, particularly during his time at Campobello Island. Even after being stricken with polio, he continued to enjoy time on boats, as he felt it gave him freedom and a sense of normalcy.

Boat: The Trump Princess, A 282-foot Nabila-class superyacht built by Benetti in 1980.

Trump purchased the yacht in 1987 from Saudi and renamed it The Trump Princess. It was renowned for its extravagant interiors, including gold-plated xtures and opulent living spaces. In 1991, Trump sold the yacht, which remains one of the most lavish vessels ever owned by a U.S. president. He has not purchased another yacht since.

Theodore Roosevelt

Boat: Various rowing and sailing vessels.

An adventurous outdoorsman, Roosevelt frequently explored waterways during his younger years and enjoyed boating on the Potomac River while serving as president. He once called boating ‘an essential pursuit of the active man.’

John F. Kennedy

Boats: Honey Fitz, a 92-foot wooden motor yacht. Victura, a 26-foot Wianno Senior sailboat. Kennedy renamed the yacht Honey Fitz in honor of his maternal grandfather, John Francis ‘Honey Fitz’ Fitzgerald. It was built by Defoe Boat and Motor Works in 1931 and used extensively for family outings and entertaining guests.

During World War II, Kennedy commanded PT-109, a patrol torpedo boat, which was famously sunk in the Solomon Islands. His heroic actions in saving his crew after the sinking added to his mystique as a wartime hero.

George

Boats: Fidelity V, a Cigarette racing boat. Bush had a love for high-speed boating owning 5 powerboats named Fidelity. At his family compound in Kennebunkport, Maine, he was known for impressing (or terrifying) guests with his daring and aggressive maneuvers.

Bill Clinton

Boat: A pontoon boat used at Martha’s Vineyard. While not an avid boater himself, Clinton often joined friends and political allies on leisurely boat outings during his vacations on Martha’s Vineyard.

Jimmy Carter

Boat: Fishing boats, including modest atboats. Carter, a lifelong sherman, frequently enjoyed boating and shing on Lake Jackson in Georgia. He often described being on the water as a spiritual experience.

Richard Nixon

H.W. Bush

Donald Trump

The 2024 Emerald Coast Powerboat Week Poker Run, hosted by the Florida Powerboat Club with Stu Jones at the helm, took place September 19-22 in Destin, Florida. Known for an impressive list of sponsors, combined with hundreds of teams converging on performance boating’s premier destination locations, this club produces over a dozen exciting runs and rallies a year throughout Florida and the Bahamas.

This multi-day event features a vibrant mix of powerboats including center consoles, cats and v-hulls with big power and impressive graphics, navigating the beautiful waterways of the Emerald Coast. I rst experienced this event in the early 2000’s with my friend David Woods and the Pier 57 Offshore Racing Team, known for the iconic yellow 42’ Fountain which had recently set the world kilo record in 2000 of 140.12mph, with driver Jeff Harris and the late Art Lilly at throttle. While hull designs, power and top speeds have changed dramatically since those early days, the electricity of this event along with the hospitality of Alan Laird’s AJ’s on Destin Harbor is just exciting as ever!

Powerboats including center consoles, cats and v-hulls with big power and impressive graphics!

One of the most exciting poker runs in the country!

BOAT SOUTH / Poker

Activities include a series of fun runs, captains’ meetings, and the main poker run, with checkpoints stretching from Sandestin to Pensacola Beach. A fun highlight of this Emerald Coast Powerboat Week is the Friday fun run to Juana’s Pagodas in Navarre Beach. Participants enjoy accommodations at the Emerald Grande Resort, scenic routes along the intercostal, dockside parties, and a grand nale awards banquet at HarborWalk Village to cap off the week.

BOAT SOUTH / Poker Run

TOP QUALITY GEL COAT SPECIALIST

MOBILE SERVICE AND DOCKSIDE OPTIONS

YACHT, PLEASURE & FISHING BOAT REPAIR

COSMETIC AND STRUCTURAL

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Sixteen years of experience researching and writing about Northwest Florida Gulf Coast real estate in regionally and nationally distributed newsstand travel and lifestyle magainvestment potential and real estate pricing.

Twenty plus years of experience as a travel and tourism writer and editor-in-chief, leading publications to target and capture a desired audience of credible buyers.

Negotiable listing commission rates based on your individual property, allowing you to sell

Immaculate coastal dream home owned by long-time country music artist!

Meticulously maintained 2,705 sq. ft. spacious two-story, 3 Bedroom, 2.5 bath nestled along a shaded drive only one block from the beach. This home is located in Destin Florida’s sought after Crystal Beach area, and is built for living in and entertaining, featuring over 1,200 sq. ft of porch, patio, and deck space! This home is surrounded by beautifully landscaped front, back, and side yards on a large lot. Spacious wraparound porch, back deck, tiki bar,place, outdoor shower, garden outbuilding, and state-of-the-art chef’s kitchen. Sold furnished and ready to live in, vacation in, or use as investment rental.

Priced to sell at only $1,800,000

“Dockside Dining Awaits at These Gulf Coast Hot Spots”

If you’ve been lucky enough to spend much time along the pristine waters of the Northwest Florida and Alabama Gulf Coast, you’ve likely discovered there is no shortage of wonderful places to dine along the land of sun and sand. What takes a little more effort, however, is nding the ideal place to venture in by water for that perfect lunch or sunset dinner experience.

Considering the hundreds of restaurant choices along our stretch of coast, only a small percentage of these offer patrons the ability to venture in by boat. Here we’ve chosen some of our favorite water accessible hot spots that we at Boat South Magazine have a hunch will make your next coastal excursion a little more memorable too.

Have a favorite boat accessible eatery of your own? Let us know, and maybe we’ll give it a try and share it with our readers around the country in Boat South’s next coastal cuisine feature.

COASTAL CUISINE

By: Will Estell

LJ Schooners Dockside Restaurant & Oyster Bar

If you’re boating anywhere near Bluewater Bay Marina in Niceville you owe it to yourself to make a stop at LJ Schooners, and take a trip back in time to the simpler days of waterfront dining. Since 1980 this staple of Florida’s nicest city has been renowned for its small laidback feel and simple southern charm.

LJ Schooners is a great place to spend an hour gazing at the water, sharing a few drinks while talking with other boat lovers, or gazing in awe over another perfect sunset. The nearby Bluewater Bay Marina is located on the North Shore of Choctawhatchee Bay, 3 miles north of the Intracoastal Waterway, or 7.5 miles Northeast of Destin.. It’s home to over 120 slips, making this a great place to take a break even after a day at Destin’s nearby Crab Island.

With offerings like smoked tuna dip, gumbo, wings, and fried oyster baskets -to name a few- the menu is simple, but there’s still something for most anyone. I’ve found the food to be well prepared, the beer cold, and the atmosphere quite appealing for a step back in time to what one would imagine a coastal eatery from days gone should be. As a bonus, LJ Schooners is a great place to watch a local band outside under the stars, or spend an in-season weekend night forgetting about the clock and living the coastal dream.

Harrison’s Kitchen & Bar

This is the newest addition to Panama City’s historic downtown area, and offers diners stunning views of St. Andrews Bay, along with a menu featuring casual cuisine, fresh seafood options, an array of drinks, and the ability to dock your boat right in front of the restaurant at the Panama City Marina.

The name Harrison’s references an early name for the town, before it was of cially named Panama City. The restaurant’s brick construction with wood oors and industrial accents are a period correct homage to Panama City Marina’s history.

This unique restaurant’s open space and large windows give you an airy feel of picturesque St. Andrews Bay, and their cuisine offerings re ect the Panama City coastal history with a menu inspired by Southern avors and fresh Gulf seafood. From smoked tuna dip to oysters on the half shell or crab claws, Harrison’s has something for most any taste; even you sh sandwich, grouper taco, and chicken salad sandwich folks. You can oat up and dine in, but if you’re hitting this hotspot for dinner, call ahead for those after 4:00 P.M. reservations before you decide to dock it.

The Oar House

Located right along the water on scenic Bayou Chico, near downtown Pensacola’s entertainment district, Oar House offers spectacular views of Pensacola Bay; as well as the ability to oat in and catch a majestic sunset while dining on some delicious cuisine. This Pensacola hotspot offers indoor and outdoor dining, with an inviting coastal atmosphere, great service, and a menu that will bring you back time and time again. As a plus, there’s even a perfect deck location to watch passing vessels, wildlife, and that special sunset!

The Oar House offers live entertainment, daily happy hours from 4:00 – 6:00 P.M., a variety of drink specials, and awardwinning cuisine such as let mignon, various Southern favorites, coveted Caribbean dishes and even gumbo, red beans and rice, and étouffée, with ingredients straight from the bayou.

Paradise Bar & GriLL

Paradise Bar & Grill, situated right on the water in Pensacola Beach is an openair bar and grill located just behind the iconic 1950’s Paradise Inn on the Santa Rosa Sound. The Paradise -as many local fans refer to it- offers some of the best food anywhere on Pensacola Beach, and is one of the few places you can come by boat and walk right into for some great food, fun, drinks and fantastic live music!

From their spectacular Paradise Burger and fries to sh sandwiches, mini shrimp spring rolls, and delicious salads, to their just right fried sh or shrimp baskets, you’re sure to nd something ideal for anyone in your party at The Paradise. They’re open for lunch and dinner, but beware, as it’s not dif cult to go for lunch and still be there basking in music, sun, and fun at dinner. This is especially true if you partake in their famous Paradise Bushwacker. Try one. You’ll see.

lulu’s

Whether your day on the water starts in Pensacola, Orange Beach, Navarre Beach, Destin or even in South Walton or Panama City Beach, Lulu’s at Homeport Marina in Gulf Shores, Alabama and the newer location, right on the bay in Destin, both offer the ability to oatup, toss an anchor or tie a rope, and head inside for some of the best food and fun you can have in most any restaurant you’ll every visit along either of these coastlines.

For years people have been making the trek, by both automobile and boat, to get a taste of Lucy Buffett’s (affectionately known as Lulu) coastal cuisine and fun-induced atmosphere. Lulu’s is one of those rare places where dining is more of an event than it is a meal. Sure, the food is always great and the expansive menu offers something for most any taste, but what makes Lulu’s so special is something that can’t be replicated or packaged… it’s like Lulu’s own magical creation.

Dewey Destin’s Seafood restaurant

This highly recommended staple of Destin dining is a must-go for anyone visiting Northwest Florida’s Gulf Coast, whether by boat or vehicle. The original Dewey Destin’s location, where it all began, is situated right near the public boat access just off Calhoun Avenue, allowing one to oat in, tie up and head over for some of the best seafood anywhere in the state of Florida.

This original iteration of the now famous Dewey Destin brand may look like a shack, but it offers idyllic views of Crab Island and Old Florida charm like no other place anywhere near it.

From the remarkable coastal views, the unique gift shops full of shirts, hats, and other cool Lulu’s themed island items to the outdoor man-made beaches and play areas for children and adults alike (the adults’ being the awesome in-door and outdoor bars at both locations) both of these locations capture the quintessential coastal vibe that Lulu’s famous brother Jimmy Buffett wrote and sung about for decades to coastal lovers around the world.

Both locations have live music most nights, and as for the food, I personally love Lulu’s loaded nachos, any of the sh sandwiches, and the burgers. You have to remember to try their famous fried green tomatoes and Redneck Caviar too. You’ll see!

“THE OYSTERS ARE FRESHLY DELIVERED AND SHUCKED ON THE SPOT, THE DRINKS ARE ALWAYS COLD”

At this unique eatery, you don’t even need a server. Simply order at a window, grab yourself a table and a seat, and take in the beautiful view while enjoying a cold drink and the food that’s made Dewey Destin’s a favorite of hundreds of thousands of coastal food lovers over the decades.

I can assure you that everything I have ever eaten at Dewey Destin’s Seafood Restaurant has always been great.

Personally, I recommend the peel and eat shrimp, as well as any of their grilled, blackened, or bronzed catch of the day choices. Remember, this is a real seafood restaurant, not just a restaurant that happens to serve seafood too.

In addition to the original Dewey’s you can also visit their sister restaurants, Dewey Destin’s on Destin Harbor, and Dewey Destin’s right on the sound in Navarre. You’ll be glad you did!

Dream

Top-tier

Elegant

Stunning

George H.W. Bush’s Powerboat ‘Fidelity V’

Auctioned in 2024RICHARD Murray

A recent transplant from Atlanta, where he worked for 20 years, Richard now servicing the women of 30A. With his charm, personality and creativity, he is dedicated to enhancing the beauty of women through hair.

Travel for Education: Dallas; Manhattan; Dubrovnik, Croatia; Chicago; Nashville; Las Angeles and Miami

e George & Barbara Bush Foundation hosted the “2024 Presidential Salute” in Houston, Texas, to raise funds for the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum and e Bush School of Government and Public Service at Texas A&M University. A highlight of the event was the auction of the late President George H.W. Bush’s speedboat, “Fidelity V,” a triple engine 38-foot Fountain 38CC. e vessel featured a presidential seal and was used by President Bush in the waters o Kennebunkport, Maine, where the Bush family maintains a summer residence.

Specialties include:

Extensions, Color Specialist, Razor Cuts, Personalized Dry Cutting

Education: Redken, WELLA, Bumble and Bumble, Bellami, Schwarzkopf and Paul Mitchell

e auction attracted numerous notable attendees, including former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and two-time Super Bowl-winning quarterback Peyton Manning and ultimately brought an astonishing top bid of $435,000.. e event successfully raised over $1 million in total, with the proceeds designated to support educational initiatives at the Bush Presidential Library and e Bush School of Government and Public Service.

e “Fidelity V” holds a special place in the Bush family’s maritime history, being the h in a series of speedboats bearing the “Fidelity” name. e rst of these is displayed at the Bush Library and Museum, while the fourth remains in use in Kennebunkport. e successful auction of the “Fidelity V” not only honors President Bush’s legacy but also contributes to the ongoing support of educational programs that re ect his commitment to public service.

EARLY SPRING FISHING TIPS

While it’s a little early for some of the most popular species like Snapper, Tuna, Mackerel and Mahi for the Florida Panhandle and Alabama Gulf Coast, there is still plenty of action if you’re targeting the right fish. February and March offer excellent fishing opportunities for anglers as water temperatures begin to rise and fish transition into their spring patterns. Several likely species you can expect to catch during this time include Redfish, Speckled Trout, Black Drum and Sheepshead.

Redfish (Red Drum)

Found around grass flats, oyster beds, docks, and deeper channels in bayous.

Tips:

Best baits: Live shrimp, pinfish, cut mullet, soft plastics, and topwater lures.

1. In cooler weather, redfish seek deeper holes in bayous and channels

2. As temperatures rise, they move onto flats and shorelines to feed on baitfish.

3. Falling tides push bait out of estuaries, making creek mouths and tidal outflows excellent ambush points.

4. In surf fishing, look for deeper troughs and holes near sandbars and passes where redfish congregate.

Speckled Trout (Spotted Seatrout)

Found in deep holes in bayous and creeks during colder days but move to grass flats and es-tuary mouths as temperatures warm.

Best baits: Live shrimp under a popping cork, DOA shrimp, and paddle-tail jigs.

Tips:

1. In colder months, trout stage in deeper holes. As water warms, they push up onto flats and grass beds.

2. Popping corks with shrimp work well in slightly stained water.

3. Suspending jerkbaits fished slowly can entice big trout in cooler water conditions.

Sheepshead

Found around bridges, jetties, docks, and reefs as they begin spawning.

Tips:

Best baits: Fiddler crabs, oysters, barnacles, and live shrimp.

1. Sheepshead are structure-oriented fish, so focus on hard surfaces with barnacle growth.

2. Use small circle hooks and light weights for a natural bait presentation.

3. Light taps indicate bites—set the hook quickly to avoid bait theft!

SEASONAL FACTORS & CONDITIONS TO WATCH

Water Temperature & Movement: Fish become more active as temperatures rise past 60°F-65°F. Baitﬁsh movements in the surf and bays indicate where predators will be hunting.

Tide Cycles: Incoming tides push bait into estuaries, triggering feeding frenzies. Falling tides concentrate ﬁsh around passes, creek mouths, and structure.

Weather Patterns: Cold fronts slow down feeding, but ﬁshing picks up just before a front arrives. Stable weather leads to more predictable feeding patterns.

TOP SPOTS ALONG THE FLORIDA AND ALABAMA GULF COAST

1. Panama City Beach: St. Andrews Pass (redﬁsh, sheepshead, pompano)

2. Destin: East Pass & Okaloosa Island Pier (trout, redﬁsh, pompano)

Black Drum

Often found near sheepshead around pilings, bridges, and oyster beds.

Tips:

Best baits: Live or dead shrimp, blue crabs, and cut mullet.

1. Use bottom rigs with a 1-2 oz weight to keep bait on the seabed where black drum feed.

2. Black drum prefer **natural baits** like crab and shrimp over artificial lures.

3. Target **deep channels and bridge pilings** where drum gather in schools, especially around **incoming tides**.

4. They tend to bite softly before fully taking the bait, give them a second before setting the hook.

3. Fort Walton Beach: Santa Rosa Sound (redﬁsh, trout, ﬂounder

4. Pensacola Beach: Pensacola Pass & Gulf Islands National Seashore (sheepshead, pompano, whiting)

5. Orange Beach: Perdido Pass & Alabama Point jetties

This time of year is excellent for ﬁshing the Florida and Alabama Gulf Coast, with a strong Sheepshead, Trout, and Redﬁsh bite leading into the spring Pompano, Spanish Mackerel and Cobia migration we will cover in the next issue.

Tight lines and good luck!