Nearshore.
Book the nearshore Trip.
You’ll fish Central Florida’s nearshore just outside of New Smyrna Beach, Edgewater, and Ponce Inlet.
Close enough to see the beach, far enough to feel the power of the ocean.
All About nearshore fishing
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Just outside Ponce Inlet and along the jetties and beaches, typically within 3–9 miles of shore.
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20–80 feet
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Sharks, Bonita, tarpon, Spanish mackerel, and flounder.
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Great for anglers looking for a little more adventure while staying within sight of land. You’ll chase migrating schools, work near reefs or wrecks, and have a shot at bigger, harder-fighting fish — often on lighter tackle for the ultimate fight.
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Blacktip Shark
Fast, flashy, and full of fight. Known for their speed and acrobatic jumps, blacktips are a favorite among sport anglers.
Fight Level: 💪💪💪💪💪
Average Size: 3–6 ft
Taste: Mild and good eating when handled properly.Spinner Shark
True to their name, spinners leap and spin when hooked — a spectacular show and a serious test of your tackle.
Fight Level: 💪💪💪💪💪
Average Size: 4–7 ft
Taste: Decent table fare, though most anglers release them after the fight.Bull Shark
Thick-bodied, powerful, and fearless. Bull sharks are the heavyweight brawlers of the inlet — pure muscle and attitude.
Fight Level: 💪💪💪💪💪💪
Average Size: 6–10 ft
Taste: Edible, but most are released due to size and conservation importance.Bonnethead Shark
A smaller cousin of the hammerhead with a friendly, shovel-shaped head. Curious, fast, and fun to catch — especially on light tackle.
Fight Level: 💪💪💪
Average Size: 2–4 ft
Taste: Surprisingly good table fare — clean and mild.Lemon Shark
Often found cruising shallow sandbars in groups, lemon sharks are mellow but strong.
Fight Level: 💪💪💪💪
Average Size: 6–9 ft
Taste: Edible but better admired than eaten.Hammerhead Shark
The unmistakable icon of Florida waters. Hammerheads are migratory giants that occasionally pass through the nearshore zone — powerful, intelligent, and awe-inspiring to see up close.
Fight Level: 💪💪💪💪💪💪
Average Size: 8–12 ft
Taste: Protected species — catch and release only.
nearshore Target Fish
Sharks
Fight Level: 💪💪💪💪💪 — Unmatched power. Long runs, drag-burning fights, and serious adrenaline. Every hookup feels like a boss battle.
Taste Level: 🍽️ — Some smaller species can be good eating, but most anglers release them for sport and conservation.
About: Sharks are the apex predators of the nearshore zone. They’ll test your strength, your tackle, and your composure — especially when they surface beside the boat. From blacktips to spinners, expect wild runs and unforgettable memories.
Bonita (Little Tunny)
Fight Level: 💪💪💪💪 — Pound for pound, one of the hardest fighters in Florida waters. Speed, power, and relentless energy.
Taste Level: 🍽️ — Not known for table fare (they’re oily), but fantastic bait and even better sport.
About: Bonita (or False Albacore) are built for speed. They’ll crush a lure, peel drag like it owes them money, and make every angler on board grin ear to ear. If you want to hear your reel scream, this is your fish.
Tarpon
Fight Level: 💪💪💪💪💪💪 — The silver king. Acrobatics, power, and sheer determination — every jump will leave your heart pounding.
Taste Level: 🚫 — Strictly catch-and-release, and rightfully so. They’re Florida’s crown jewel sportfish.
About: Tarpon are the ultimate test of skill and patience. Found cruising the beaches and inlets, they can exceed 100 pounds and leap six feet out of the water when hooked. Landing one is a lifelong memory.
Spanish Mackerel
Fight Level: 💪💪💪 — Lightning-fast runs and plenty of action on light tackle.
Taste Level: 🍽️🍽️🍽️ — Excellent fresh — light, flaky, and perfect for grilling or smoking.
About: Spanish mackerel are schooling speedsters that bring constant excitement to the nearshore bite. They hit hard, travel in packs, and love shiny lures. Perfect for anglers who want steady action and fun fights.
Flounder
Fight Level: 💪💪 — Not known for brute strength, but you’ll know when they’re on — that telltale “thump” and slow, sneaky pull.
Taste Level: 🍽️🍽️🍽️🍽️🍽️ — Absolutely elite. Sweet, delicate, and versatile — it’s the fish every chef wants in their kitchen.
About: Flat, camouflaged, and always up to something. Flounder lie in wait on sandy bottoms and ambush prey from below — a stealth predator that rewards patient anglers.
