New Smyrna Beach Shark Fishing Adventure
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Three-hour shark fishing adventure in world's top shark bite capitalProfessional captain provides all equipment and fishing licenses includedNearshore trips target Atlantic sharks up to four miles offshore
Welcome to the shark bite capital of the world, where the action happens fast and the memories last forever. Our 3-hour nearshore shark fishing trip puts you right in the heart of some of Florida's most productive waters, just 4 miles off New Smyrna Beach. This isn't your typical inshore trip – we're heading to where the big predators cruise the drop-offs and structure, looking for their next meal. With everything included from rods to licenses, you'll be hands-on with some serious gamefish while our local captain puts you on the bite. Perfect for small groups of friends or family who want to test their mettle against the ocean's apex predators.
This trip is all about getting you hooked up with sharks and pelagic species that call the Atlantic waters off New Smyrna home. We'll run out to productive nearshore spots where the bottom structure and current breaks create perfect ambush points for hungry predators. The 3-hour window gives us plenty of time to work different areas and techniques, adjusting our approach based on what the fish are telling us that day. You'll be using circle hooks with fresh bait, learning proper shark handling techniques, and getting coached through every fight. The boat accommodates up to 4 anglers comfortably, with the option to add 2 more for those larger groups. Weather permitting, we're targeting depths where blacktips, spinners, and other coastal sharks are actively feeding, plus keeping an eye out for bonus species like cobia and barracuda that follow the bait schools.
We fish with heavy conventional setups spooled with braided line – usually 50-80 pound test depending on conditions and target species. Circle hooks are mandatory for shark fishing, and we'll rig them with wire leaders to handle those razor-sharp teeth. Our go-to baits include fresh mullet, mackerel, and whatever's running hot that week. We'll set up a mix of bottom rigs and suspended baits at different depths to cover the water column. The technique is straightforward but effective: present natural baits where the sharks are hunting, keep tension on the line, and be ready for explosive runs. When a shark takes the bait, you'll feel that unmistakable weight and power as it tries to head for deeper water. We'll coach you through the fight, making sure you stay connected while the fish makes its runs. All tackle, bait, and Florida fishing licenses are provided, so you can focus entirely on the action.
Blacktip sharks are the bread and butter of this fishery, and for good reason. These athletic predators average 3-6 feet and are famous for their aerial displays when hooked. They're most active during the warmer months from March through October, often feeding in schools along the beach breaks and nearshore structure. What makes blacktips so exciting is their speed and agility – they'll make long runs, jump clear of the water, and test your drag system like few other species can. The fight is pure adrenaline, and they're perfect for anglers of all skill levels.
Great barracuda are the speed demons of the flats and nearshore waters, capable of hitting 35+ mph when they strike. These toothy predators can reach 4-6 feet and are year-round residents, though they're most aggressive during spring and summer months. What sets barracuda apart is their explosive strike and initial run – they'll smoke line off your reel before you know what hit you. Their razor-sharp teeth and powerful jaws make them a favorite among anglers who appreciate a fish that fights dirty.
Cobia are the wild cards of this trip, often showing up when you least expect them. These curious fish can reach 30-50 pounds and are known for following sharks and rays, looking for an easy meal. Peak season runs from April through July when they're spawning along the coast. Cobia are exciting because they're smart, strong, and unpredictable – they might cruise right up to the boat to investigate, or they might make a blistering run toward the bottom. Their brown coloration and shark-like appearance often creates confusion until you see that distinctive flat head.
Blackfin tuna bring speed and stamina to the mix, typically running 10-20 pounds in our local waters. These pelagic speedsters are most common from late spring through early fall, often mixed in with bait schools along temperature breaks. What makes blackfins special is their never-quit attitude – they'll fight right to the boat, making multiple runs and testing every knot in your rig. They're also excellent table fare, making them a favorite among anglers who like to take dinner home.
Atlantic sailfish are the crown jewel of our offshore waters, even in the nearshore zone. These billfish typically range 6-8 feet and 30-60 pounds, with peak activity during the cooler months from December through April. Sailfish are bucket-list fish for most anglers – their dramatic jumps, blistering runs, and sail-like dorsal fin make them one of the most spectacular gamefish in the ocean. Landing a sail on this trip is always possible, especially during winter months when they move closer to shore following bait schools.
New Smyrna Beach's reputation as the shark bite capital isn't just talk – it's backed by consistent action and variety that keeps anglers coming back season after season. This 3-hour trip gives you a real taste of what our waters have to offer without the full-day commitment. Whether you're looking to introduce kids to serious fishing, celebrate a special occasion, or just scratch that fishing itch, this adventure delivers. The combination of world-class fishing, professional guidance, and top-rated equipment makes this a standout choice for anyone wanting to experience Florida's legendary shark fishing. Spots fill up quickly during peak season, and with our non-refundable deposit policy
Head out into Atlantic waters aboard this well-equipped 25' Ken Craft center console, designed to handle both inshore runs and offshore shark hunts. The boat comfortably seats your group of up to 4 anglers, with plenty of deck space to battle those big fish. You'll find quality rods and reels ready to go, plus an icebox to keep your drinks cold and any keeper fish fresh. The GPS keeps you on target while the fish finder helps locate where sharks are prowling. Built tough for New Smyrna's waters, this center console gives you the perfect platform to hook into blacktips, spinners, and other Atlantic predators just a few miles from shore. Everything's set up for a serious fishing adventure.
Istiophorus AlbicansSailfish are the holy grail for many anglers - these blue-gray speedsters with that massive dorsal fin average 50-80 pounds and can stretch 7-8 feet. They're surface cruisers that hunt in 100-400 feet of water, often following the Gulf Stream edge. Winter months from December through March bring the best action when they migrate through our waters. What makes them legendary is that aerial show - they'll jump repeatedly, tail-walking across the surface in ways that'll give you chills. Most folks release them since they're not great table fare, but the fight alone is worth the trip. They hunt in small groups, herding baitfish with those big sails. The trick I've learned is patience during the fight - let them make their runs and tire themselves out with all that jumping. Try to horse them in and you'll likely pull the hook.
Thunnus AtlanticusBlackfins are the smallest tuna we catch out here, usually running 10-20 pounds, but don't let size fool you - they're absolute bulldogs on light tackle. These dark-bodied speedsters school up in 60-200 feet of water around current breaks and baitfish. Fall through spring is our best window when they move inshore following bait schools. What makes them special is that perfect combination of strong fight and excellent table quality - some of the best sashimi you'll ever taste. They're sharp-eyed fish that require finesse, so we scale down to lighter leaders and smaller hooks. The key is finding the schools, then it can be non-stop action with multiple hookups. Here's what I've learned over the years: when vertical jigging for them, use smaller jigs than you think and work them fast. These fish are used to chasing speedy baitfish, so match that energy.
Carcharhinus LimbatusBlacktips are one of the most common sharks we encounter out here, running 4-6 feet on average with those distinctive black-tipped fins. They're pretty energetic fish - known to jump clear out of the water when hooked, which always gets everyone fired up. You'll find them cruising in 30-100 feet of water, especially around structure and baitfish schools. Spring through fall gives us the best action when water temps warm up. What makes them fun is they're aggressive feeders but can be a bit skittish, so they put up a solid fight without being too overwhelming for newer anglers. Use heavy braid and circle hooks since they tend to get excited and make runs. Pro tip: keep your chum oily with mackerel or sardines - they've got great noses and will follow that scent trail right to your hooks.
Rachycentron CanadumCobia are one of my favorite species to target - they average 30-50 pounds but can push 100+ pounds and fight like freight trains. These brown, shark-looking fish are usually loners cruising near the surface around wrecks, reefs, and structure in 30-100 feet of water. Spring migration from March through May is prime time, then they stick around structure all summer. What guests love is the combination of sight fishing opportunities and that incredible table fare - firm, white meat that rivals any fish in the ocean. They're aggressive predators that'll eat just about anything you throw at them. The fight is what really gets people hooked though - long, powerful runs that'll test your arms. Pro tip: when you spot one, cast ahead of where it's swimming, not right at it. They spook easily but once hooked, they're committed to the fight.
Sphyraena BarracudaThese silver bullets show up regularly on our trips, typically running 2-4 feet but the big ones can hit 6 feet and 100+ pounds. Barracuda are lightning fast predators that patrol near the surface around reefs, wrecks, and current breaks. They're curious fish that hunt by sight, often checking out anything shiny. Spring through summer gives us the most consistent action when they're actively feeding. Guests love them because they fight hard with short, powerful runs and sometimes leap when hooked. They're also pretty intimidating with those razor-sharp teeth, which adds to the thrill. While the meat can be good, most folks are in it for the fight. Here's a tip from years of targeting them: use a steel leader and don't be afraid of bright, flashy lures. Just keep your hands clear when bringing them aboard - those teeth mean business.
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