Recognized as the Redfish Capital of the World, New Smyrna Beach is home to some of the best saltwater and backwater fishing in the area. Our ideal location between the Indian River Lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean means there’s always something in the water here at NSB.
"Sight fishing is popular in the winter months on the Indian River grass flats and Mosquito Lagoon, where redfish run in the shallows from the southern tip of New Smyrna Beach to the north end of Merritt Island. You never have to worry about tides, so the fish will bite any time, but the absolute best time of day to fish is before daybreak until 10 a.m. and that last hour before sunset." (source: gerrysmarina.net)
We’re breaking down everything you need to know about casting your line in our beautiful waters. From the types of fish that call our shores home, to best spots to reel in and guided boat tours, you’re sure to make a splash fishing at NSB.
Discover What’s Under the Sea
There is plenty of fish and aquatic creatures that call our salt and fresh waterways home. In addition to our status as the Redfish Capital of the World, our waters are also overflowing with spotted sea trout, snook, tarpon, and flounder, among other species. Offshore, deep-sea fishing aficionados can also spot swimmers like the free jumping sailfish and large tuna. With so many fresh and saltwater spots to cast your line, you’re sure to pull up a gem.
Fish Like a Local
Now that you know what you can catch here at NSB, the question remains – where do you reel it in? For those looking to get up close and personal with our signature redfish, there’s no better spot than the Indian River Lagoon. It’s not uncommon to catch a 20-pound bull redfish in this sparkling waterway! Another spot to hook redfish is Mosquito Lagoon, where you’ll also find spotted sea trout. At Ponce de Leon Inlet, you’re sure to see tarpon, kingfish, and an abundance of other gamefish just within a mile of the shoreline. You can also cast your line at Smyrna Dunes Park, a beautiful expanse of land and sea along the Intracoastal Waterway. Whether you prefer classic cast-your-line fishing, sight casting, or surf angling, our many aquatic options mean your ideal fishing spot is just a line away.
Cast Your Line with The Pros
If you’re a newbie, or just want a pro to help you navigate our waterways, have no fear! Our many guided fishing tours and charters are here to make sure you have the best fishing adventure when visiting our slice of paradise. Nervous about deep sea fishing for the first time? Call Poseidon Fishing . Captain George Kotsonis does inshore, offshore fishing, and can seat up to 6 people.. Not sure how to navigate Mosquito Lagoon? The team at Inland Fishing Charters is ready to help you reel one in on any of our fresh waterways. If you want to see the pros in action, too, be sure to plan your trip around one of the many impressive fishing tournaments hosted on our shores!
New Smyrna Beach is an angler’s paradise, and you’re sure to leave here hooked. To learn more about the many fishing opportunities in the area, including best practices on sustainable fishing, visit our in-depth guidebook. To start planning your next NSB vacation, find a place to stay at https://visitnsbfl.com/stay.
