iOutdoors Blog, New Smyrna Fishing, Party Boat Fishing, Ponce Inlet Fishing
If you ever find yourself dreaming about fishing in the state of Florida, one of the must-do destinations, according to the locals, is to go fishing. Florida boasts of many fantastic fishing spots. New Smyrna Beach has become one of the best places in America, rightfully so because of the richness of their waters and diversity of the fishes you can catch.
The best thing about it is you do not have to be a long-time fisherman to appreciate Florida waters’ diversity. Although it sure is a delight for a fishing expert, newbies will have a great time as well, provided they have secured a fishing license. Whether you prefer saltwater or freshwater fishes, you are guaranteed to go home with the day’s catch.
The Guide to New Smyrna Beach
One of Florida’s top fishing hot spots; is New Smyrna Beach. Locals claim that it is genuinely every angler’s playground and paradise. Fishing heritage in New Smyrna dates back hundreds of years on the Beaches known for its very fertile and plentiful waters.
The barrier islands situated between the Atlantic Ocean and the Indian River Lagoon provide rich waters for the 3,000-mile Intracoastal Waterway system.
The Ponce de Leon Inlet at the north end of the island is a sportfishing haven as it provides deep-water access. But for inshore anglers, a 35-mile shoreline will them keep busy in the Indian River Lagoon. There is indeed a spot and an activity for every type of fishing enthusiast.
For surf fishing, the granite rock jetty just south of Ponce de Leon Inlet is perfect because it provides soft sand on either side. There is also a deep channel at the Inlet’s mouth that attracts many fish species if you want a more satisfying fishing session. Learn about the many different types of fish you can bring home from a trip to New Smyrna Beach in the next sections.
No experience? A novice in the field of fishing, you might want to try out a more laid back way of fishing. The long and wide shoreline of the New Smyrna has several oceanfront rental properties that provide access to outstanding fishing, making it a backyard cast into the Atlantic Ocean.
Local tackle shops are plentiful, but locals catch their bait using sand fleas or fiddler crabs. But stop by the local bait shops, and marinas rent equipment, and get all the assistance needed.
What Can You Catch in New Smyrna Beach?
As mentioned, the fish population in New Smyrna Beach is diverse. What you get for the day of fishing will all depend on where you look and position yourself. You can go offshore and travel a few miles from the starting point and catch fish that you would have never caught if you
stayed closer to shore.
With incredible hard and clean beaches, New Smyrna has fishable shorelines that stretch over 30 miles. Access to the Atlantic Ocean is a castaway, which is continuously replenished by the Gulf Stream. The area has plenty of fishing piers to cast a line from; here are the most common types of fish in New Smyrna Beach.
Redfish
The Red Drum of more commonly known as the Redfish is a regular catch in New Smyrna Beach. Because of this, New Smyrna is the “Redfish Capital of the World.” The Indian River Lagoon is the perfect habitat for these fish, and their population is brimming.
According to the size limit, the fish you get to bring home should be no larger than 27 inches or shorter than 18 inches. You can also only catch 2 per day, and spearing is prohibited. Word of caution, these fish are fighters, so better be prepared to bring your best if you end up hooking a bull redfish.
Sharks
It may sound intimidating, but shark fishing is a usual thing at the New Smyrna beach. But it is not something that should scare you because it is a regulated activity. Their waters host one of the country’s largest shark populations. You do not have to go far out from the shore to
find and catch one.
Shark fishing is a fun and memorable activity for the whole family, and the chances of endangering yourself are small. For newbies, the best way to get into shark fishing is by hiring a fishing charter, learn the techniques from a professional then try it on your own.
Spotted Seatrout
The next most typical fish you can catch is the Spotted Seatrout. Although these fish are a daily catch, it is still satisfying to hook one because they are picky in the lures and baits. Unlike the Redfish, which is not finicky and will bite almost anything, Spotted Seatrouts are easily spooked.
Known as a local year-round species, do not migrate regardless of seasons and are plentiful. You can go fishing at the New Smyrna beach anytime and expect to catch them all year long. You can also bring home a minimum of 4 of these from your fishing trip.
Tarpon
Another year-round catch is the Tarpon. Tarpons are very common in Florida, so there is no need to plan a trip around a specific time. But we recommend going during the summer months as it is the best time to do so.
In the summer, you get to bring home Tarpons that weigh as much as 100 pounds. However, during the winter months, they find juvenile Tarpons that weigh between 10-40 pounds are more widespread. Fishing for Tarpon in New Smyrna Beach requires patience and skill. They are quite challenging to get a sight of and prefer live baits.
Mahi Mahi
It is not a complete trip to New Smyrna Beach without trying deep-sea fishing. Travel 10 miles from the shore, and you are looking at fishing the Gulf Stream and hooking a Mahi Mahi and other pelagic fish, which could include Cobia, Kingfish, Sailfish, and always Barracuda. With lots of structure, shipwrecks, and underwater reefs, there are enough unique fish to keep you busy and happy.
Additionally, productive reefs are known as nearshore trips, wreck trips, or bottom fishing. Bottom fishing is famous for quality eating fish, the delicious type, like Grouper and Snapper. But bottom fishing also provides great sport fish like Amberjack, Shark, and Barracuda.
Largemouth Bass
Because of the variety of species and fishing opportunities in New Smyrna Beach, the largemouth bass is plentiful everywhere in Florida, so you do not need to travel far to catch this species on a fishing trip. You are catching crappie and bluegill in the area while moving around to find largemouth bass during your fishing trip.
The place to catch trophy largemouth bass is at St. Johns River, but the closest good bass fishery is Lake Ashby. These fish are a little bit tricky to see, so you will need to have the right rod and reel for them. Local guides would recommend having freshwater tackle and saltwater tackle.
Where to go Fishing in New Smyrna Beach
The diversity of locations and species is second to none; with so many different things to explore, New Smyrna Beach offers plenty of ways to cast your line and catch any fish you fancy.
Undoubtedly, chartering a boat costs the most, but it also provides the experience if you want to learn and freedom if you’re going to relax. A knowledgeable guide will explore with you, fishing multiple spots and techniques. There is no need to rig the tackle the night before or go out and purchase stuff you may not need; a fishing charter provides all the rods, reels, and tackle and fishing licenses.
It’s also your only option if you’re on vacation, with no access to anything other than transportation. All New Smyrna inshore, offshore, reef, and wreck charters also clean your catch and pack it for you and will suggest local restaurants that will cook it for you. Nothing more comfortable, right?
Pier Fishing
With two causeway bridges to choose from, Pier fishing can yield various catches, including Snook, Trout, and Black Drum. It is best to head out early in the morning or after dusk, before the tide changes.
They are chumming for species of fish known famous locally as Redfish, Black Drum, and Sheepshead. Again, when doing this, look for the incoming or outgoing tide changes.
Surf Fishing
The New Smyrna Beach is one of only a few Florida locations that allow beach driving; this means you can pick a spot and start casting. But make sure to bring heavier sinkers because surf fishing can get you Pompano, Redfish, Bluefish, Flounder, and Sharks.
Kayak Fishing
If you want to explore New Smyrna on a Kayak, there is no better place than Mosquito Lagoon; kayak fishing is the way to go. It is an exceedingly popular choice at the sight fishing paradise where you can hook into plenty of Redfish and Seatrout. But to succeed, stealth-like fishing is required when in the shallow waters.
Always expect the unexpected and remember your in a Kayak. Especially if you’re near choppy or open waters, pay incredibly close to the wind and weather. Having a portable GPS or weather app on your phone is essential and always lets someone know the area you’re going to fish in case of an emergency.
Head Boat Fishing
Many anglers enjoy the ability and flexibility of a head boat, also known as a Party boat. It is excellent for inexpensive fishing trips and a popular choice in New Smyrna, Florida. It’s simple; you get aboard a more extensive size boat, typically 50 to 80 feet in length. It’s a shared charter trip, so each person pays separately; the vessel has dozens of seats around the boat’s perimeter. They typically go out a mile or two and drift over humps or reefs and bottom fish. You usually have other like-minded fishermen, which leads to exchanging fish stories and good times.
Because of the boat style and how they fish, it is prevalent for people to get seasick. Something you should know and plan according to the weather forecast. Everyone gets one rod, and a mate comes around and baits your hook. Some feel that there’s not much freedom regarding changing techniques or moving around. You will not need any gear, bring drinks and food, no need to worry about fishing licenses.
Fishing Licenses
First and foremost, before you knock yourself out with the overwhelming fishing sites, you need to have a Florida fishing license. Required in Florida, anyone who takes attempts to take or possess marine fish for non-commercial purposes in New Smyrna Beach. Applies to all people between the ages of 16 and 64.
Aside from being age 65 or older or under age 16, the only way you can fish without a license is by fishing from a boat or pier with a recreational fishing license. So, in essence, all non-Florida residents must have a permit.
Seasons
The state of Florida creates regulations to protect the species; New Smyrna has several of those species.
Snook is off-limit in Florida between Dec 15–Jan 15 and Jun 1–Aug 31.
Tarpon has no limit but carries strict catch and release regulations year-round.
Atlantic Grouper Season starts May 1
Atlantic Red Snapper Season is open in July and changes often.
To ensure you’re legally fishing, it’s suggested to use a fish regulation app, so you always have it with you for each species’ size limits.
New Smyrna Nearby Fishing Attractions
A few miles northeast of Ponce de Leon Inlet, the USS Mindanao, a WWII Liberty Ship remembered for its historical battles and now sits on the ocean floor as an artificial reef since 1980. This water vessel that measured 446 feet has contributed significantly to the flourishing of fish species enjoyed by many today.
In early 2018, the county sunk two additional ships that make bottom fishing and diving even more plentiful. Thanks to the sunken vessels, the area now produces sizable catches of many fish and even crustacean species.
The New Smyrna area also provides good freshwater fishing not far from the Indian River Lagoon. This water body, which makes New Smyrna Beach a barrier island, is also a fishing mecca. According to local guides, using fast, shallow water flats boats for hunting various fish is the best way to explore the area.
iOutdoors Blog, Cape Canaveral Fishing, Mosquito Lagoon Fishing, New Smyrna Fishing, Offshore Fishing, Pompano Beach Fishing, Ponce Inlet Fishing, Stuart Fishing
Pompano is one of the most highly prized game fish in all of Florida. Every year anglers from around the U.S. flock to Florida’s beaches to target these tasty fish. There mostly fished in the surf and inlets around the state. Here we will look at some of the best pompano fishing spots and how to catch pompano in all of Florida.
Indian River Lagoon
The Indian River Lagoon is a group of three lagoons along the Atlantic Coast of Florida. The incredibly biodiverse lagoon is home to some excellent pompano fishing. Anglers regularly catch pompano here drifting over flats, fishing along the channel edge, or fishing off the lagoons bridges.
Playa Linda
Along Florida’s East Coast, you’ll find the beautiful Playa Linda Beach. Suppose you’re looking for a productive spot to surf fish, you need to check this place out. Use shrimp and sand fleas to cast from the beach for a productive day of fishing.
South Hutchinson Island
The beaches near the central part of South Hutchinson Island are home to some great Pompano action. Bring along casting reel to cast from shore.
Hobe Sound
In Martin County, Florida, you’ll find a little place called Hobe Sound. This underrated fishing destination is a prime spot for beach fishing. There are also plenty of fishing piers to set up your pompano casting techniques.
Juno Beach
Juno Beach is another small town fishing destination located in Palm Beach County, Florida. Anglers regularly target pompano, snook, and snapper from the surf.
Sebastian Inlet
Sebastian Inlet State Park is home to excellent Florida fishing. Pompano is the prized fish in these parts, but bluefish, redfish, and Spanish mackerel are also regularly caught.
Cocoa Beach
South of Cape Canaveral, you’ll find one of the best fishing beaches in all of Florida. Cocoa Beach. In the troughs that form along the coasts, you’ll catch pompano, whiting, croaker, and occasionally snook coming to feed on the smaller fish that reside here.
South Florida
After the cold fronts of winter, South Florida becomes the pompano hot spot. Look along the beaches in Broward and Miami-Dade county for some excellent pompano action. The beaches and piers here can be very productive.
Equipment for Pompano
When targeting pompano in Florida, you can use several methods, such as fly fishing, pier, shoreline, or the surf’s coastal waters.
A spinning reel 3500 or 4000 series spooled with a 12 to 15-pound test line is useable for normal surf conditions while fishing inshore. On more massive surf days, an upgrade in size reel, one that can hold around 17 to 20-pound test line, may be more desirable for casting the larger objects needed to keep your bait in the right location.
Pompano fly fishing is a highly underused technique for successfully catching good fish. Pompano’s mouth is relatively tiny, flies mimicking a little shrimp or crab are beneficial for seeing them, learning how to catch pompano in fly fishing areas in the grassy flats and surf zones.
What Does Pompano Eat?
Pompano consistently eats shrimp, mussels, clams, crabs, and small baitfish.
The Florida pompano, primarily nutritional diet, has minimal restrictions. Because they eat small baitfish, they allow their dietary schedule to adjust to shellfish seasons. Sand fleas are dessert for Pompano as icecream is to you and me, and by far, the most savory is squid and shrimp. With that said, any time a crab or clam of any type is available, dinner is served!
Adopting these baits when fishing for Pompano is always an excellent idea.
Closing Thoughts
The key to catching pompano is fishing in the right areas. However, all the places we mentioned in this article are excellent for fishing. You have to fish the correct season to have your best odds of landing this tasty species.
In the springtime, when the water warms up, pompano migrates to the northern parts of Florida. They head south in the winter, so fishing along the Southern Florida Beaches is your best chance in winter. Remember to fish them in the right season when you head to Florida for your Pompano fishing vacation.
iOutdoors Blog, New Smyrna Fishing, Offshore Fishing, Ponce Inlet Fishing, Snapper Fishing
Ponce Inlet Snapper Fishing
August was an amazing month for offshore fishing in New Smyrna Beach. Taking a quick cruise to the Atlantic Gulf Stream or the local reefs and wrecks produced a steady bite for its visitors. August was also the month that Red Snapper Season opened up for several weekends. Ponce Inlet Red Snapper Fishing was one of the best experiences here in North Florida along the east coast.
Just south of Daytona Beach, you will find the entrance to the great Atlantic Ocean. While cruising through the intercoastal waterways to get there, enjoy the sights and wonders of North Florida. As you travel out of Ponce Inlet make sure you capture Florida’s tallest lighthouse as the sun breaks the horizon.
Our local experts have years of experience cruising these waters and getting out to the local reefs for an abundance of species. Some of our experts have learned a variety of techniques including inshore fishing and offshore fishing. When the weather gets rough, you can always come in and catch some great species on lighter tackle. Ponce Inlet Offshore Fishing has been where it is at though when the weather permits.
Captain Brad Kayholm had the pleasure of fishing with Ariel and Tai. They were traveling from California and Japan to do business at a convention. It was a fun morning with the owners of Jackall Lures this summer. The fish were all fired up and ready to be caught. Ponce Inlet and New Smyrna Beach gives access to some of the best waters to catch Red Snapper and Mango Snapper. Sometimes when you go out you come across other species that can change the plans or direction of your fishing adventure on a Ponce Inlet snapper fishing trip.
Ariel and Tai wanted to catch mango and red snapper. They got the mango snapper all fired up on the local reef and started reeling them in. It was awesome to have a school of great fish below the boat. Sometimes when you fire up a school and you put out bait and get the water chummed up, you happen to acquire some unwanted guests. Tai was looking for a good fight and he sure got one.
As they were reeling in a mango snapper left and right, they wanted to go for something bigger. Chunking out bigger bait and letting it get to the bottom, it was not long until something picked it up. Tai was in for a long 20 minute fight that he actually had to have Ariel assist him with. The tax men were in town and they brought one to the boat. They caught a 7 foot, roughly 200 pound reef shark. It was an awesome fight. You just never know what you will catch on a New Smyrna Beach Fishing Charter. When you bottom fish like such, you will always encounter sharks whether you are catching them or they steal your struggling fish you just hooked. 
After getting taxed as they call it, the bite slowed down. After some time, the red snapper moved in. Ariel and Tai had a lot of fun catching several of them before the bite shut off. It was not long after the bite shut down that we decided to move inshore in order to catch a Red Fish. Unfortunately this trip was on the weekend and the red fish were lock jawed.
Captain Brad had an awesome time with Ariel and Tai. They are looking forward to getting back on the water next time they visit Florida. You truly can’t beat what this beautiful area of Florida can offer you. Don’t miss out on your adventure in search for your inshore or offshore species of your dreams. New Smyrna Beach can most certainly accomplish your goals and dreams right here in Florida. We can’t wait to see you on the water next time!
Your Adventure Starts Today while Visiting Florida.
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Daytona Beach Fishing, Inshore Fishing, Ponce Inlet Fishing, Redfish Fishing
Mosquito Lagoon Fishing Charter
Florida Fishing has been incredible this summer. Year round you can travel to the state and catch the fish of a lifetime. Mosquito Lagoon Fishing Charter can be an awesome adventure for both or the family.
I had the pleasure of fishing with Tyler and his girlfriend that wanted to get out on the water for a great fishing experience. Mosquito Lagoon is the perfect location to do so with excellent redfish, tarpon and drum fishing.
It was an early morning start for the couple racing out at 6am. We got some action cruising to multiple different spots around the Lagoon. At first light, we chased tarpon and got a few hits but nothing held.
After chasing a school of black drum as well with no takers, we went to one of my favorite redfish spots. The whole trip was a blast to be able to fish the different locations. Tyler and his mate caught 5 quality redfish at this location.
They are looking forward to coming back and fishing with us again. The inshore experience was awesome for them and something they will continue to cherish and remember.
More About Mosquito Lagoon:
If stalking trophy Redfish in water barely deep enough to cover their backs is your idea of exciting fishing, then the “Redfish Capitol of the World” is your next destination. Mosquito Lagoon extends from Ponce Inlet to the Indian River in Titusville. It is a shallow water fishing paradise year round with one of the most unique eco-systems around the world. The Lagoon is conveniently located 45 minutes from Orlando. You can even experience the Kennedy Space Center from your fishing destination.
Come Catch Yours Today with Captain Tom Carver exploring Mosquito Lagoon .
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Backcountry Fishing, Daytona Beach Fishing, iOutdoors Blog, Ponce Inlet Fishing, Snapper Fishing
Ponce Inlet Fishing Trip
One of the best things Florida Fishing has to offer is the ability to explore fresh or saltwater fish all year long. North Florida has an incredible opportunity to catch a variety of species on a Ponce Inlet Fishing Trip.
I had the pleasure of fishing with Casey and his girlfriend Elizabeth traveling from Tennessee for some of this North Florida action. Elizabeth is the daughter of a good friend of mine.
The weather was really nice and we made a great day out of the short time we had. We could not find something big but we put numbers of mangrove snapper in the boat. Mangroves are similar to bream in fresh water.
Mangrove snapper is quite delicious and you can most certainly keep a nice limit. Casey and Elizabeth were catching them up to 12 inches long.
Casey and I had a lot in common, as we both have a history of racing cars. Another amazing part about fishing is the ability to share stories and experiences with your clients.
We had a great time out on the water and I am looking forward to them fishing with us again. They want to come back and explore more of the inshore fishing here in North Florida to either catch some shark or cobia.
For everyone else out there, for your fresh or saltwater fishing needs, contact us today and we will be glad to help!
Come Catch Yours Today with Captain Steve Nieomeller on the St. John’s River.
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Captain Steve Niemoeller is a full-time Professional fishing guide and Licensed Master Captain. Primarily servicing the fresh water lakes of the St Johns River, Lake George, and Lake Monroe. He also guides on Harris Chain and Lake Toho. He also has great success on Ponce Inlet and Mosquito Lagoon in saltwater catching Redfish and other species.
