Hey there, anglers! Ready to hit the coastal waters of New Smyrna Beach for some serious fishing action? Captain Falon Morse here, and I've got just the trip for you. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting your feet wet, our extended half-day charter is the perfect way to experience the best inshore fishing Florida has to offer. We're talking six full hours of non-stop action, targeting some of the most sought-after species in these parts. So grab your hat and sunscreen, and let's dive into what makes this trip a can't-miss adventure!
Picture this: You're cruising out of New Smyrna Beach as the sun starts to warm things up. The smell of salt air hits you, and you can feel the anticipation building. We'll be exploring the rich waters near Ponce Inlet, a honey hole for some of Florida's most prized catches. With six hours at our disposal, we've got plenty of time to find the hot spots and really dial in on the fish. I'll be right there with you, sharing local knowledge and helping you land that trophy catch you've been dreaming about. We've got top-notch gear and live bait ready to go, so all you need to bring is your A-game and a good attitude. This trip is perfect for families looking to make memories, friends out for a good time, or serious anglers aiming to test their skills against some of the best inshore fishing around.
Alright, let's talk strategy. Inshore fishing is all about versatility, and we'll be using a mix of techniques to get those fish biting. We might start off sight casting for tailing redfish in the shallows – there's nothing quite like watching a big red crush your bait in just a foot of water. For snook, we'll work the mangrove shorelines and dock structures, using live bait or artificial lures depending on what's working best that day. If the mackerel are running, we might do some light trolling or cast spoons to school them up. And for those big black drum? We'll anchor up and use cut bait or crabs to entice these bruisers. I'll show you the ropes on each technique, and by the end of the day, you'll be fishing like a local pro.
Let's break down the all-stars you'll be targeting on this trip. First up, the mighty redfish. These copper-colored beauties are known for their powerful runs and distinctive spot near the tail. They love to hang around oyster beds and grass flats, and when they're tailing in shallow water, it's a sight to behold. Spring and fall are prime times for reds, but we catch them year-round here.
Next, we've got snook – the bad boys of the inshore scene. Snook are ambush predators with a serious attitude. They love structure and current, so we'll be working docks, bridges, and mangrove edges. These fish are known for their acrobatic jumps and blistering runs. The big ones can top 40 inches, and they're catch-and-release only, ensuring future generations can enjoy the thrill.
Don't sleep on the black drum. These cousins of the redfish can grow to monster sizes, with some topping 50 pounds. They're not the prettiest fish in the sea, but what they lack in looks, they make up for in fight. Black drum are bottom feeders, so we'll be using heavy tackle and natural baits to entice these bruisers.
For those looking for some speed, we've got great barracuda. These toothy missiles are pure adrenaline on the end of a line. They'll hit topwater lures with explosive strikes and make blistering runs that'll have your drag screaming. Just watch those teeth when we're unhooking them!
Last but not least, Spanish mackerel. These speedsters travel in schools and when they're biting, the action is fast and furious. They're great eating too, so if you're looking to take home some dinner, these are a top choice. We typically see them more in the warmer months, but they can surprise you year-round.
You know, it's not just about the fish – though that's a big part of it. What keeps folks coming back is the whole experience. There's something special about being out on these waters, watching the dolphins play or seeing an osprey dive for its breakfast. Every trip is different, and that's what makes it exciting. Maybe we'll stumble upon a pod of tarpon rolling or find a school of jacks busting bait on the surface. It's those unexpected moments that turn a good day into a great one. And let's be honest, there's nothing quite like the feeling of your rod doubling over with a big fish on the other end. Whether you're reeling in your personal best or helping your kid land their first fish, those are the memories that stick with you.
So there you have it, folks. Six hours of prime New Smyrna Beach fishing action, targeting some of Florida's most exciting inshore species. With Captain Falon at the helm and all the gear you need provided, this extended half-day trip is the perfect way to experience the best of what our waters have to offer. Whether you're looking to bend a rod, learn some new techniques, or just enjoy a day on the water with family and friends, we've got you covered. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait to lock in your date. Give us a call or book online, and let's make some fishing memories that'll last a lifetime. Tight lines, and we'll see you on the water!
Black drum are the gentle giants of our inshore waters. These cousins of redfish can grow huge, with most catches in the 5-30 pound range, but monsters over 80 pounds pop up too. You'll find them in brackish areas, around oyster beds and mudflats. They're here year-round, but spring is prime time when they school up to spawn. Anglers love drum for their strong, steady fights and good eating (stick to smaller ones under 15 pounds for best flavor). To catch 'em, use fresh crab or shrimp on a bottom rig. Local tip: Listen for their distinctive "drumming" sound – that's how they communicate and can lead you right to them. Once you find a school, drop your bait right in front of their noses. Be patient, as they can be finicky biters.
Great barracuda are the speed demons of our waters, hitting 35 mph in short bursts. These sleek predators average 2-4 feet but can grow up to 6 feet long. You'll spot them near the surface around reefs, inlets, and sometimes in open water. They're here year-round but more active in warmer months. Anglers love targeting 'cuda for their explosive strikes and acrobatic fights. They'll hit just about anything shiny, making them fun on topwater lures or while trolling. Just watch those teeth when you're landing one! Local tip: If you see a school of bait fish "raining" on the surface, there's likely a barracuda below. Cast a chrome spoon or tube lure right into the frenzy for an almost guaranteed hit.
Redfish are a prized catch around New Smyrna Beach, known for their distinctive spot near the tail. They typically run 20-30 inches, but trophy fish over 40 inches aren't uncommon. You'll find them in shallow waters, often tailing in 1-4 feet deep flats, oyster beds, and mangroves. Fall and winter are prime seasons when they school up. Anglers love 'em for their strong fights and tasty meat. To land one, try sight fishing with light tackle and live bait like shrimp or mullet. My local tip: Look for "nervous water" or swirls on calm mornings - that's often redfish feeding. They spook easy, so a stealthy approach is key. Cast ahead of their path and let them come to your bait. Once hooked, hang on - even smaller reds put up a great battle.
Snook are the rockstars of inshore fishing here. These powerful, silver-sided gamefish usually run 24-34 inches but can top 40 inches. You'll find them around mangroves, docks, and inlets, often ambushing prey in current. Spring and summer are prime, with spawning peaks around full moons. Anglers prize snook for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic fights. They're also excellent eating, though heavily regulated. To hook one, try live mullet or big soft plastics around structure. My local tip: Fish the outgoing tide at night around lighted docks or bridges. Cast your bait upcurrent and let it drift naturally into the snook's strike zone. When you feel that thump, hold on tight – snook are famous for making blistering runs right back to the structure they came from.
Spanish mackerel are the perfect mix of sport and table fare. These streamlined speedsters usually run 1-2 feet long and put up a great fight on light tackle. Look for them in large schools near the surface, often around inlets and just offshore. Spring and fall are prime seasons as they migrate. Anglers love 'em for their fast runs and tasty, omega-rich meat. To catch Spanish macks, try trolling small spoons or jigs behind the boat. My go-to trick is to watch for birds diving – that often means mackerel are pushing bait to the surface. Cast a small, flashy lure into the frenzy and retrieve quickly. Be ready for multiple hookups when you find a school. Just remember to handle them carefully – those teeth are razor-sharp!
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
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