Dawson Group acquires Stinky’s Fish Camp, Red Fish Taco in South Walton expansion

The Dawson Group has acquired three established South Walton restaurants from Word of Mouth Restaurant Group owner Jim Richard, expanding their presence from Seaside to the west end of 30A.

• The acquisition includes Stinky’s Fish Camp, Stinky’s Bait Shack, and Red Fish Taco, adding to The Dawson Group’s existing portfolio of six establishments in Seaside.

“While our current restaurants are located in the heart of Seaside, we are excited to expand our brand into the West end of 30A,” said Ashley Beecher, who owns The Dawson Group with her husband Clark.

The Beechers, along with operating partners Baron and Courtney Fields, plan to maintain the establishments’ traditions while implementing new features. Popular menu items at Stinky’s Fish Camp, including beignets, biscuits, and the Oyster Log, will remain.

Plans for the properties include expanded breakfast offerings at Stinky’s Bait Shack and a new lunch and dinner concept by 2026. The Bait Shack will continue hosting events like the Swamp Writer Music Festival and will become the new venue for the Sand Up Comedy Festival.

• Red Fish Taco is undergoing renovations with Tracery Interiors and will incorporate TexMex elements to its menu. “Coming from Texas, we hope to fill the niche of TexMex cuisine along 30A,” said Courtney Fields.

Matt Dunn will oversee operations at the newly acquired locations, while Kevin Martindale will continue leading The Dawson Group’s Seaside establishments.

The Dawson Group purchased their Seaside locations from Bill and Heavenly Dawson in 2020 after 32 years of operation. The current acquisition adds three established restaurants to their portfolio.

“Many of these owners are first-generation 30A locals that built and created these establishments when the area was still developing decades ago,” Ashley Beecher said. “It is an honor that they trust The Dawson Group to carry the torch.”