Expert-Guided Backcountry Fishing in New Smyrna

Full Day Backcountry Charter in New Smyrna Beach

Looking for a top-rated fishing adventure that'll put you right in the heart of Florida's best inshore action? Captain Doug Hicks knows these New Smyrna Beach waters like the back of his hand, and he's ready to show you why this stretch of coastline is a customer favorite among serious anglers. This full-day charter takes you through the backcountry flats, around the inlet, and into those productive intercoastal spots where the big fish hang out. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, you're going to love what these waters have to offer.

What to Expect on the Water

This isn't your typical half-day trip where you're rushing to get lines in the water. With a full day ahead of us, we've got time to really work the spots and adjust our game plan based on what the fish are doing. We'll start early, hitting the backcountry flats when the light is just right, then move through the inlet areas where the current brings in baitfish and the predators follow. The intercoastal waterways offer plenty of structure and grass beds that hold fish year-round. Captain Doug provides all your bait, tackle, ice, and equipment, plus he's got your state fishing license covered. You just need to bring your lunch, plenty of water or sports drinks, sun protection, and a camera for those hero shots. Fair warning - once we leave the dock, stores are pretty limited, so pack smart with a good cooler and stay hydrated out there. The boat comfortably handles two anglers, so you won't be fighting for space or gear.

Techniques & Tackle Setup

We'll be running a mix of techniques depending on what we're targeting and where we find them. Live bait fishing with shrimp, pilchards, and finger mullet is the bread and butter for most of these species, especially around structure and drop-offs. We'll also throw artificials like soft plastics, topwater plugs, and suspending baits when the fish are active and feeding aggressively. The captain rigs everything with circle hooks and appropriate leaders - heavier fluorocarbon when we're around oyster bars and structure, lighter when we're sight fishing the flats. Spinning gear in the 3000-4000 size range handles most situations, but we'll bump up to conventional tackle if the tarpon show up and start rolling. The key is staying mobile and reading the water - watching for bait activity, bird work, and those subtle signs that tell you where to make your next move.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Redfish are the backbone of our inshore fishery here, and New Smyrna Beach has some world-class red drum fishing. These copper-colored fighters love the shallow grass flats and oyster bars, especially during moving tides. They'll eat live shrimp under a popping cork or crush a gold spoon worked along the edges. Most fish run 18-27 inches, perfect slot size, but don't be surprised if we hook into a bull red that'll test your drag and your arms. Fall and winter are prime time when they school up in big numbers.

Grey snapper might not be the flashiest fish in the water, but they're smart, tasty, and always ready to fight. Around the inlet rocks, bridge pilings, and deeper holes, these guys will hammer live bait or small jigs. They're year-round residents that really turn on when the water cools down. A 15-inch snapper on light tackle is a blast, and they make excellent table fare if you're looking to take some fish home.

Tarpon are the silver kings that make grown anglers act like kids again. Summer months bring juvenile tarpon into the backcountry and around the inlet mouth, with fish ranging from 20-60 pounds. They'll roll on the surface, giving away their location, then absolutely demolish a live bait or well-placed lure. Even a small tarpon will jump repeatedly and run line like you wouldn't believe. Most are released to fight another day, but the photos and memories last forever.

Sea trout patrol the grass flats and deeper holes, especially during cooler months when they school up in good numbers. These spotted beauties are perfect light tackle fish that'll hit live shrimp, soft plastics, or topwater baits early and late in the day. A good trout bite can keep the rod bent all day, with fish ranging from keeper size up to impressive gator trout over 20 inches.

Snook are the holy grail of inshore fishing - moody, structure-oriented ambush predators with an attitude. They love mangrove shorelines, dock pilings, and inlet areas where they can pin baitfish against structure. When you hook a good snook, they'll jump, run, and try every trick in the book to throw the hook. They're catch-and-release only right now, but landing one is always a highlight of any trip.

Time to Book Your Spot

This full-day backcountry charter gives you the best shot at experiencing everything New Smyrna Beach inshore fishing has to offer. Captain Doug's local knowledge and years of experience mean you're not just buying a boat ride - you're getting insider access to the spots and techniques that consistently produce fish. The combination of backcountry flats, inlet action, and intercoastal structure fishing means we can adapt to conditions and keep you on fish all day long. Whether you're after your first redfish, looking to tangle with a tarpon, or just want to bend the rod and enjoy a day on the water, this trip delivers. Don't wait too long to book - the best fishing days fill up fast, and you don't want to miss out on what could be the fishing trip of a lifetime.