The Area.
Where we fish — and why it’s special.
Florida Saltwater Fishing Charters operates out of New Smyrna Beach, Edgewater, and Ponce Inlet — home to some of the most productive and diverse fishing waters on Florida’s East Coast.
Here, every tide brings a new opportunity. The Intracoastal Waterway, the Indian River Lagoon, and the Atlantic’s nearshore reefs all connect — creating a unique stretch of coastline that produces trophy-class redfish, snook, tarpon, and more year-round.
This isn’t just a spot on the map — it’s a system Captain Eric Lee has studied, mapped, and mastered.
What makes this stretch of coastline different isn’t just the variety of fish — it’s the rhythm.
The tides, the bait, the structure, and the wildlife all come together here in a way that few places can match.
And when you fish it with someone who knows it tide by tide, you start to understand why it’s special.
LOCAL LANDMARKS YOU’LL RECOGNIZE
Ponce Inlet Lighthouse — a local icon that often marks the start of a great day.
Disappearing Island — a local sandbar gathering spot surrounded by prime flats.
Indian River Lagoon — one of the most biologically diverse estuaries in North America.
The Jetties — a legendary structure known for bull reds and tarpon runs.
COME FISH THE AREA
Whether you want to stalk redfish in the backwaters or chase tarpon through the inlet, you’ll be fishing water that tells a story — and a captain who knows every inch of it.
Book your trip and experience the East Coast the way it was meant to be — by water.
Why This AreA?
Welcome to the heart of Florida’s East Coast — where winding mangrove creeks meet rocket trails in the sky, and fishing isn’t just a pastime, it’s a way of life.
Florida Fishing Charters operates out of New Smyrna Beach, Edgewater, Oak Hill, and Ponce Inlet — four connected coastal communities that together make up one of the most diverse and exciting fishing destinations in the entire state.
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This stretch of coastline sits where the Indian River Lagoon, Mosquito Lagoon, and the Atlantic Ocean all converge — creating a natural playground for fish and fishermen alike.
It’s one of the most biodiverse estuaries in North America, home to over 700 species of fish and wildlife. From shallow flats to nearshore reefs, there’s always something biting.This is where world-class inshore meets true bluewater adventure — all in the same day.
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You can catch redfish, snook, and trout at sunrise, and be chasing kingfish or mahi by lunch. The Mosquito Lagoon is legendary for its sight fishing — often called the Redfish Capital of the World — while Ponce Inlet is your gateway to serious nearshore and offshore action.
It’s also home to the Florida Saltwater Fishing Expo, founded by Captain Eric Lee, which celebrates this community’s passion for the water and its people. -
The Wildlife
It’s not just fish that make this place special. You’ll spot bottlenose dolphins, manatees, osprey, pelicans, and roseate spoonbills on nearly every trip.
The nearby Canaveral National Seashore offers unspoiled beaches, pristine lagoons, and some of the best natural scenery left in Florida. -
This is Old Florida at its finest — a mix of fishing villages, working marinas, and local legends. Oak Hill was once known for its oyster houses, Edgewater for boatbuilding, and New Smyrna Beach for surf culture and small-town charm.
The Ponce Inlet Lighthouse, built in 1887, still stands tall as a coastal icon — and you’ll pass it on your way out to fish. -
Look up on a clear day, and you might see a rocket launch from Cape Canaveral — visible right from the inlet. Few places in the world let you hook a redfish while watching a rocket streak into orbit.
It’s Florida’s version of science meets salt life. -
State Fish: Sailfish (naturally — and you can catch them offshore right here!)
State Bird: Northern Mockingbird
State Mammal: Manatee (common in our waters)
State Shell: Horse Conch
State Reptile: American Alligator
State Saltwater Mammal: Bottlenose Dolphin
State Tree: Sabal Palm
State Flower: Orange Blossom
Nicknamed: The Sunshine State
Famous Nearby Cities: Daytona Beach (15 min north), Titusville (50 min south), Orlando (1 hour inland)
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It’s where Old Florida meets New Adventure — where you can grab a local grouper sandwich, dock at a tiki bar, and still watch a rocket launch over the ocean.
Every corner of this area carries the same heartbeat: fishing, family, and salt in the air.Whether you’re here for the catch, the scenery, or the stories — this coast has it all.
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Discover What Makes New Smyrna Beach, Edgewater, Oak Hill & Ponce Inlet Truly Special
On the Water
These are the places your trip will take you past — or that define the waterways we fish.
Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse & Museum (Ponce Inlet)
Florida’s tallest lighthouse and one of the most photographed coastal landmarks in the state. Built in 1887, it still guides vessels today. You’ll often see it from the water as you head out for nearshore or offshore trips.
Pro Tip: Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the inlet, the beach, and the Intracoastal.
Disappearing Island (Ponce Inlet)
A hidden gem that only appears at low tide — locals pull up by boat to relax, swim, and grill on the sandbar. It’s the perfect post-charter hangout spot for those who want a true “locals only” experience.
Mosquito Lagoon (Oak Hill / Edgewater)
Known as the Redfish Capital of the World, this pristine lagoon system is legendary for sight fishing. Shallow, quiet, and full of life, it’s where Old Florida still feels untouched.
Indian River Lagoon (Edgewater)
Part of the most biologically diverse estuary in North America — over 700 species call it home. Expect dolphins, manatees, and incredible birdlife.
Haulover Canal (Titusville, just south)
A historic cut connecting Mosquito Lagoon and the Indian River, known for manatee sightings, alligators, and great kayak fishing.
On the Shore
Where coastal charm meets small-town Florida.
Flagler Avenue (New Smyrna Beach)
The heart of New Smyrna — a walkable street lined with surf shops, seafood restaurants, bars, and boutiques. Perfect for unwinding after a long day on the water.
Canal Street Historic District (Downtown NSB)
A mix of art galleries, local markets, and mom-and-pop cafés. Great for a slower morning before your charter or an evening stroll.
Smyrna Dunes Park (Ponce Inlet / North NSB)
A scenic park with boardwalks, dog-friendly beaches, and views of the lighthouse and inlet. You can often spot dolphins and sea turtles right from shore.
Bethune Beach Park (South NSB)
Quiet, clean, and less crowded — this is where locals go to relax, fish from shore, or watch rocket launches over the ocean.
Just Beyond the Dock
Florida’s Space Coast is closer than you think.
Kennedy Space Center (Titusville – 45 min south)
Watch rockets launch into orbit or explore NASA’s history up close. Launches are often visible right from the inlet — a once-in-a-lifetime view if it lines up with your fishing day.
Canaveral National Seashore (New Smyrna to Titusville)
A protected 24-mile stretch of wild, undeveloped coastline — no hotels, no condos, just raw Florida. It’s as pristine as the state gets.
Local Flavor & Culture
What makes the community tick.
Down the Hatch Seafood Company (Ponce Inlet)
A favorite dockside restaurant for locals, captains, and charter guests. Cold drinks, fresh fish, and sunset views — you can’t beat it.
JB’s Fish Camp (South NSB / Bethune Beach)
Part restaurant, part local institution. Pull up by boat or car and enjoy fresh seafood with a view of Mosquito Lagoon.
The Garlic & Norwood’s Treehouse Bar (New Smyrna Beach)
Two iconic NSB dinner spots. The Garlic is famous for atmosphere and Italian food, while Norwood’s lets you dine among the treetops in a live oak canopy.
Honorable Mentions
Daytona International Speedway – 20 min north
Blue Spring State Park – Winter manatee hotspot, 40 min inland
Stetson Mansion (DeLand) – Florida’s oldest luxury estate, 45 min away
Marine Discovery Center – Local nonprofit offering eco-tours & education
Edgewater Public Boat Ramps & Riverfront Park – Common local launch spots
Why It Matters
This area is where Old Florida charm meets Space Coast energy — rocket launches, redfish tailing in the flats, dolphins in the wake, and tiki bars waiting back at the dock. It’s one of the few places where you can spend the morning fishing world-class waters and the evening watching a rocket light up the sky.
It’s not just a place — it’s a lifestyle built on saltwater, sunshine, and stories worth retelling.
New Smyrna Beach | Inshore
Shallow flats, winding creeks, mangroves, and clear water make this area ideal for inshore sight fishing. From bull redfish tailing in inches of water to flounder ambushing bait along the edges, every corner of New Smyrna holds potential.
It’s a relaxed coastal town with deep fishing roots — quiet mornings, clean water, and a community that still revolves around the tide chart.
Calm, scenic, and full of opportunity — New Smyrna’s flats and creeks are ideal for learning the fundamentals of inshore fishing.
Here, you’ll explore how tides, structure, and bait movement shape fish behavior, and you’ll practice reading water, improving your casting accuracy, and mastering light tackle techniques.
Ponce Inlet | Nearshore
Known as one of Florida’s most dynamic fisheries, Ponce Inlet is where inshore meets ocean.
It’s where tarpon roll, cobia cruise, and kingfish explode on bait schools within sight of the beach. Here, you’ll fish the same channels and ledges that have tested generations of captains — and where Eric runs most of his nearshore trips.
The lighthouse stands watch, the current rips hard, and the fish are always moving. Where river meets ocean, Ponce Inlet teaches anglers the power of current, patience, and precision. It’s a natural training ground for learning how to present baits in moving water, target larger species like tarpon and cobia, and handle fish safely in heavier conditions.
You’ll learn how timing, tide cycles, and water clarity can turn an average spot into a productive one — lessons that apply anywhere you fish.
Beyond the Inlet | Offshore
When the weather allows, we move offshore — not just to catch bigger fish, but to understand the deeper patterns that drive Florida’s coastal fishery.
From learning how to read sonar for bait schools to identifying bottom structure that holds snapper, grouper, or mahi, these trips offer a hands-on look at how ocean systems work.
When the weather allows, we push farther — chasing pelagics and reef species in the offshore waters of the Atlantic.
Mahi, wahoo, snapper, and grouper — it’s big water fishing for anglers ready to test themselves.
Even a few miles off the beach, you’ll feel how wild and alive this coast still is.
