by Outdoor-Links.Com » Wed Mar 17, 2004 8:12 am
A 19' bay boat, on very calm days, could be used in the gulf near shore. I wouldn't venture out too far with it though, it could be a very dangerous move to make. You say you are new to owning/operating a boat in the salt water environment, well don't push the limits of the boat and you will be able to return to Destin again in the future.
As far as finding spots, as at the tackle stores, Half Hitch Tackle is a good place to start. They are very knowlegable about the current fishing climate and will share that info with you.
A good map is also marked with spots to fish, using a map, you can mark on it if you find something not on the map, like deeper pockets, humps or bottom structure.