Expert-Guided Backcountry Fishing in New Smyrna Beach

Backcountry Bonanza: 6-Hour New Smyrna Beach Fishing

Ready to reel in some of Florida's most sought-after gamefish? Hop aboard Capt. Doug Hicks' boat for a 6-hour fishing adventure in the rich backcountry waters of New Smyrna Beach. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, this trip offers the perfect blend of action and relaxation as you target Grey Snapper, Redfish, Sea Trout, Snook, and even the mighty Tarpon. With all the gear provided and a wealth of local knowledge at your fingertips, you're in for a day of top-notch fishing in one of Florida's most productive inshore spots.

What to Expect on the Water

As you push off from the dock, Capt. Doug will guide you through the maze-like backcountry, inlet, and intercoastal waterways that make New Smyrna Beach a fishing paradise. The calm, protected waters are perfect for anglers of all skill levels, so don't sweat it if you're new to the game. You'll have six full hours to explore prime fishing grounds, from grass flats teeming with redfish to deeper channels where snook lurk in the shadows. The captain provides all the bait, tackle, and ice you'll need, plus your fishing license is covered. Just remember to pack a cooler with lunch and plenty of drinks – once you're on the fish, you won't want to waste a minute heading back to shore for supplies.

Inshore Tactics & Hotspots

On this trip, you'll get to try out a variety of inshore fishing techniques. Expect to do some light tackle casting along mangrove shorelines for snook and redfish, or perhaps some bottom fishing for those tasty grey snapper. If the tarpon are rolling, you might even get a shot at hooking one of these silver kings on fly or with live bait. Capt. Doug knows all the local honey holes, from the backwater creeks where sea trout hang out to the inlet rocks that hold monster snook. He'll tailor the approach based on the tides, weather, and what's biting best that day. Don't be surprised if you find yourself sight-casting to tailing reds in skinny water one minute and drifting live baits for tarpon the next – that's the beauty of New Smyrna's diverse fishery.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Grey Snapper: Don't let the name fool you – these fish are anything but dull. Also known as mangrove snapper, these wily predators are prized for their tasty fillets and challenging nature. They love structure and can be found around docks, bridges, and mangrove roots. Grey snapper might not be the biggest fish in the sea, but they make up for it with their sharp teeth and even sharper wits. Expect a good fight on light tackle, and get ready for some of the best fish tacos you'll ever taste if you bring a few home for dinner.

Redfish: The poster child of inshore fishing, redfish (or red drum) are a favorite among anglers for good reason. These copper-colored beauties can be found tailing in shallow grass flats or cruising along oyster bars. Known for their distinctive spot near the tail, redfish put up a stubborn fight and can grow to impressive sizes. The "bull reds" over 27 inches are catch-and-release only in Florida, but they provide an unforgettable battle. Redfish are active year-round in New Smyrna, with fall being a particularly hot time as they school up for their annual spawn.

Tarpon: If you're looking for the ultimate inshore challenge, look no further than the mighty tarpon. These prehistoric powerhouses can grow well over 100 pounds and are famous for their acrobatic leaps and long, dogged fights. Tarpon migrate through New Smyrna's waters typically from late spring through early fall, with peak action often in June and July. Hooking a tarpon is thrilling, but landing one is a true accomplishment. Even if you don't boat one, the sight of these silver kings rolling on the surface is something you won't soon forget.

Sea Trout: Spotted seatrout, or "specks" as the locals call them, are a staple of inshore fishing in New Smyrna. These speckled predators are known for their delicate flesh and willingness to hit artificial lures. You'll often find them over grass flats or around deeper holes in the backcountry. Sea trout are fun to catch on light tackle and fly rods, offering a mix of subtle strikes and occasional topwater blowups. They're available year-round, but the bigger "gator" trout are often caught in the cooler months.

Snook: With their distinctive black lateral line and bucket mouth, snook are both a prized gamefish and a wily adversary. These ambush predators love to hang around structure – mangroves, dock pilings, and bridge supports are all prime snook territory. Known for their sudden, powerful runs, snook will test both your reflexes and your drag system. While they can be caught year-round in New Smyrna, the best action is often in the warmer months when they move into the inlets and beaches to spawn. Just remember, snook are catch-and-release only for much of the year, so handle them with care.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

New Smyrna Beach isn't just another Florida fishing spot – it's a diverse ecosystem that offers something for every angler. The mix of backcountry, inlet, and nearshore fishing opportunities means you can target a variety of species without having to run far. Plus, the protected waters make for a comfortable trip even when the offshore seas are rough. Capt. Doug's local knowledge ensures you're always on the fish, whether you're after a cooler full of tasty snapper or the photo of a lifetime with a monster tarpon. And let's not forget the scenery – from dolphin sightings to wading birds and maybe even a manatee, the natural beauty of this area is worth the trip alone.

Time to Book Your Spot

Whether you're looking to bend a rod, fill the cooler, or just enjoy a day on the water, this 6-hour trip with Capt. Doug Hicks has got you covered. With all gear provided and fish cleaning included, all you need to do is show up ready for action. Remember to bring your camera – you'll want proof of that bull red or tarpon when you're sharing fish tales later. Night fishing trips are also available for those looking to target species like snook when they're most active. Don't miss out on some of the best inshore fishing Florida has to offer – book your New Smyrna Beach backcountry adventure today and get ready to make some memories on the water!