If you're searching for deep sea fishing in New Smyrna Beach, you've landed in the right place. New Smyrna Beach sits just 60 miles south of Cape Canaveral and 60 miles north of Palm Beach — putting it squarely in the heart of Florida's most productive offshore corridor. The Gulf Stream runs close to shore here, warm blue water pushes in fast, and the bottom structure off Ponce Inlet drops into ledges, reefs, and wrecks teeming with fish.
Captain Brad Curtsinger has been running deep sea fishing charters out of New Smyrna Beach for over 25 years. This guide covers everything — target species, best seasons, what to expect on the water, and exactly how to book your trip.
Why New Smyrna Beach Is a Deep Sea Fishing Destination
Most people know New Smyrna Beach as a surf town. What they don't know is that just 20–40 miles offshore, the bottom drops into some of the most fish-rich water on the entire East Coast. Here's why anglers from Orlando, Daytona Beach, and beyond make the drive:
- 🐟Ponce Inlet provides direct offshore access — no long runs through inlets or passes
- 🌊The Gulf Stream pushes warm, blue water close to shore, bringing pelagic species like mahi-mahi, wahoo, and sailfish within reach
- 🪨Natural ledges, artificial reefs, and wrecks hold grouper, snapper, amberjack, and cobia year-round
- 📍Centrally located — 1 hour from Orlando, 30 minutes from Daytona Beach, 45 minutes from Deltona and DeLand
- 🎣Less crowded than Miami or Fort Lauderdale offshore grounds — more fish per angler
Deep Sea Fishing Target Species Off New Smyrna Beach
The offshore waters off New Smyrna Beach hold an incredible variety of species. Here's what Captain Brad targets on New Smyrna Beach deep sea fishing charters:
Gag Grouper
The most sought-after bottom fish offshore. Found on ledges, reefs, and wrecks. Excellent table fare — one of the best-eating fish in the ocean.
Red Snapper
Federal season opens in late May. When it's open, red snapper fishing off New Smyrna Beach is world-class. Limit out days are common.
Mahi-Mahi (Dolphin Fish)
Mahi follow the weed lines pushed in by the Gulf Stream. Fast, acrobatic fighters and incredible eating. Peak season is late spring through summer.
Kingfish (King Mackerel)
Kingfish are one of the most exciting offshore species — fast, powerful runs and explosive strikes. Great for live bait fishing on the nearshore reefs.
Cobia
Cobia migrate through New Smyrna Beach waters in spring. They're often spotted near buoys, wrecks, and rays. Hard fighters and outstanding eating.
Amberjack
Known as the "reef donkey" for a reason — amberjack are relentless fighters on structure. Great for anglers who want a serious workout.
Wahoo
One of the fastest fish in the ocean. Wahoo are a prized catch on the trolling spread when the Gulf Stream pushes close to shore in fall and winter.
Sailfish
Florida's state saltwater fish. Sailfish are a bucket-list catch — spectacular jumpers and acrobatic fighters. Catch-and-release is standard practice.
Best Time of Year for Deep Sea Fishing in New Smyrna Beach
The beauty of offshore fishing out of New Smyrna Beach is that there's something to target every single month of the year. Here's a season-by-season breakdown:
Spring (March–May)
Spring is arguably the best all-around season. Cobia migrate through in March and April — one of the most exciting sight-fishing opportunities offshore. Red snapper season opens in late May, and mahi-mahi start showing up on the weed lines. Water temps climb into the mid-70s and conditions are typically calm.
Summer (June–August)
Summer means mahi-mahi, red snapper (when the federal season is open), and kingfish. The Gulf Stream pushes close to shore and blue water can be found within 20–30 miles. Mornings are calm — afternoon thunderstorms are common, so early departures are key.
Fall (September–November)
Fall is wahoo and kingfish season. As water temps drop, the pelagic bite heats up. Amberjack and grouper fishing on the reefs is excellent. Some of the best weather of the year for offshore trips — comfortable temps and stable seas.
Winter (December–February)
Winter brings sailfish and wahoo as the Gulf Stream pushes warm water close to shore. Grouper and snapper fishing on the bottom is productive year-round. Calm weather windows are common in winter — Captain Brad monitors forecasts closely and picks the best days.
What to Expect on a New Smyrna Beach Deep Sea Fishing Charter
If you've never been on an offshore fishing charter in New Smyrna Beach, here's exactly what a day on the water with Captain Brad looks like:
Meeting at Ponce Inlet
All deep sea fishing charters depart from 2455 Boat Ramp Drive, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168 — right at Ponce Inlet. You'll meet Captain Brad at the dock, load up gear, and get a quick safety briefing before heading out.
The Run Offshore
Depending on the target species and time of year, the run offshore is typically 20–50 miles. Captain Brad monitors sea conditions, water temp breaks, and live bait availability to put you on the best bite of the day.
Bottom Fishing, Trolling, or Both
Deep sea charters typically combine trolling (for mahi, kingfish, wahoo, sailfish) with bottom fishing (for grouper, snapper, amberjack). Captain Brad reads the conditions and adjusts the game plan to maximize your catch.
Tackle, Bait, and Equipment
All rods, reels, tackle, and bait are provided. Captain Brad uses heavy-duty offshore gear rated for the species you're targeting. You don't need to bring anything except food, drinks, sunscreen, and a valid Florida saltwater fishing license.
Cleaning and Filleting
Fish are cleaned and filleted at the dock. You take home your catch vacuum-sealed and ready for the cooler. Captain Brad follows all Florida Fish & Wildlife regulations on bag limits and size minimums.
What to Bring on a Deep Sea Fishing Trip
Florida Saltwater Fishing License
Required for all anglers 16+. Available online at myfwc.com.
Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
You're on open water for 6–8 hours. Reapply every 2 hours.
Polarized Sunglasses
Essential for spotting fish and protecting your eyes from glare.
Non-Slip Shoes
Deck shoes or sneakers with rubber soles. No flip-flops offshore.
Food and Drinks
Bring a cooler with plenty of water, sports drinks, and snacks. No glass bottles.
Motion Sickness Medication
If you're prone to seasickness, take Dramamine or Bonine the night before.
Light Rain Jacket
Weather can change offshore. A packable rain layer is always smart.
Camera or GoPro
You'll want photos of your catch. Waterproof cases recommended.
Why Book Your Deep Sea Fishing Charter with Captain Brad?
There are plenty of deep sea fishing charters near New Smyrna Beach — here's what sets Captain Brad apart:
25+ Years Experience
Captain Brad has been fishing the offshore waters of New Smyrna Beach for over two decades. He knows the ledges, the wrecks, the weed lines, and the seasonal patterns better than anyone.
5-Star Rated
Consistently 5-star reviews on Google. Customers return year after year because Captain Brad puts in the work to find fish — not just put you on the water.
All Tackle Provided
Heavy-duty offshore rods, reels, terminal tackle, and bait are all included. You show up ready to fish — Captain Brad handles the rest.
Ponce Inlet Access
Departing from Ponce Inlet means faster access to offshore grounds — less time running, more time fishing. No long inlet runs or shallow water delays.
Flexible Trip Lengths
Half-day nearshore trips, full-day offshore runs, and extended deep sea trips available. Captain Brad customizes the trip to your group's goals and experience level.
Fish Cleaning Included
Your catch is cleaned, filleted, and bagged at the dock. You leave with fresh fish ready for the grill — no mess, no hassle.
Deep Sea Fishing New Smyrna Beach — Frequently Asked Questions
How far offshore do you go for deep sea fishing out of New Smyrna Beach?
Depending on the target species and sea conditions, Captain Brad typically runs 20–50 miles offshore. Nearshore kingfish and cobia trips may stay within 10–20 miles. Full offshore trips targeting grouper, snapper, mahi, and wahoo run 30–50 miles out to the Gulf Stream.
Do I need a fishing license for a deep sea charter in New Smyrna Beach?
Yes — all anglers 16 and older need a valid Florida saltwater fishing license. You can purchase one online at myfwc.com before your trip. Captain Brad's charter license covers the vessel, but individual angler licenses are required by Florida law.
What is the best month for deep sea fishing in New Smyrna Beach?
Every month has something to offer, but May through July is peak season — red snapper season opens, mahi-mahi are thick on the weed lines, and cobia are still running. Fall (September–November) is excellent for wahoo and kingfish. Winter brings sailfish and calm weather windows.
How long is a typical deep sea fishing charter?
Full-day offshore charters run approximately 8–10 hours. Half-day nearshore trips are 4–5 hours. Captain Brad offers flexible trip lengths depending on your group's goals — contact him directly to discuss options.
Is deep sea fishing out of New Smyrna Beach good for beginners?
Absolutely. Captain Brad has guided anglers of all experience levels — from first-timers to seasoned offshore fishermen. He provides all tackle, instruction, and coaching. The only thing you need to bring is enthusiasm.
How do I book a deep sea fishing charter in New Smyrna Beach?
You can book directly on this website or call/text Captain Brad at (386) 259-0318. A $100 deposit via Square secures your date. Captain Brad responds quickly and is happy to answer any questions about the trip.
Ready to Book Your Deep Sea Fishing Charter in New Smyrna Beach?
Whether you're chasing grouper on the ledges, mahi-mahi on the weed lines, or a bucket-list sailfish on the Gulf Stream — New Smyrna Beach deep sea fishing delivers. Captain Brad has the experience, the local knowledge, and the passion to put you on fish.
Don't wait — the best dates fill up fast, especially during red snapper season and the spring cobia run. Book your trip today and get ready for the offshore adventure of a lifetime.
Book Your Deep Sea Fishing Charter Today
New Smyrna Beach, FL · Ponce Inlet · (386) 259-0318 · $100 deposit secures your date