Miss Destin gets royal treatment as Rodeo season opens (PHOTOS)

The sun came out on Thursday just in time to shine down on Miss Destin’s arrival at the Meet Miss Destin party at the Inn on Destin Harbor.

Kelsie Jacobs, a 17-year-old Fort Walton Beach High School senior, was all smiles when she walked in donning the crown of Miss Destin 2009. The night was all about welcoming Jacobs to the Rodeo family.

“It’s awesome, definitely overwhelming,” she told The Log.

Jacobs said she’s had to work on her signature to sign autographs for the Miss Destin fan following.

The 61st annual Destin Fishing Rodeo is a week away, and Jacobs is ready for a month of posing with the hopeful catches that wind up at the docks.

“I’ve met a lot of the fishermen already working at HarborWalk Marina,” she said.

The categories at this year’s Rodeo will be different now that red snapper are off limits and a shark category has been added.

“I’m excited about Shark Saturdays the most,” Jacobs said.

Up next for The Rodeo: At 6 p.m., Thursday, is the annual Captains and Mates Meeting and the Rock The Dock Kick-Off Party at AJ's. Initially, there was a $15 ticket fee, but now the event is free with AJ's picking up the tab.

On Saturday, Sept. 26 is the 61st annual Destin Fishing Rodeo's kids Rock the Dock Party. The event will begin at 2 p.m. with a carnival-like atmosphere centered on children. There will be a wagon boat parade and fun for all.