Damn Good River Fishing Charters In New Smyrna Beach

Check real-time availability and compare rates on New Smyrna Beach river fishing trips. Confidently book your next day on the water.

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Recently Booked River Fishing Charters In New Smyrna Beach, Fl

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Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Jetty, River Fishing Charter in New Smyrna Beach

3 Hour AM Quick Trip

100% (8)
24 ft 1 - 10 People From $300
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Jetty, River, Flats Fishing Charter in New Smyrna Beach

3hr Inshore Fishing Charter

100% (3)
18 ft 1 - 6 People From $465
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Jetty, River, Flats Fishing Charter near New Smyrna Beach

Daytona Beach Inshore Fishing

NEW
20 ft 1 - 8 People From $450
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, River, Flats Fishing Charter near New Smyrna Beach

4 Hour Inshore/Near 1-5pm

NEW
22 ft 1 - 4 People From $375
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Jetty, River Fishing Charter near New Smyrna Beach

4hr Inshore

NEW
22 ft 1 - 8 People From $550
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, River, Flats Fishing Charter near New Smyrna Beach

Mosquito Lagoon Flats

NEW
22 ft 1 - 8 People From $550

Top Types of River Trips in New Smyrna Beach

Top Species for River Fishing in New Smyrna Beach

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Target Species in New Smyrna Beach

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  • Get it while it's HOT!
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More River Fishing Charters In New Smyrna Beach, Fl

Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, River, Flats Fishing Charter near New Smyrna Beach

Smoking Summer Special

100% (11)
21 ft 1 - 4 People From $399
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, River, Flats Fishing Charter near New Smyrna Beach

3 Hour Beginners And Kids Trip

100% (11)
21 ft 1 - 4 People From $349
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Jetty, River Fishing Charter near New Smyrna Beach

Inshore Fishing Charter

NEW
18 ft 1 - 4 People From $289
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, River, Flats Fishing Charter near New Smyrna Beach

Summer Special 5hrs For Price Of A 4hr

100% (11)
21 ft 1 - 4 People From $399
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, River, Flats Fishing Charter near New Smyrna Beach

4 Hour Inshore/Near 8am-12

NEW
22 ft 1 - 4 People From $375
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, River, Flats Fishing Charter near New Smyrna Beach

Running The Rivers For Reds

100% (11)
21 ft 1 - 4 People From $399
See All River Trips in New Smyrna Beach

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Everything to Know About Booking a New Smyrna Beach river fishing charter

What are the best river fishing charters in New Smyrna Beach?

Why should I book a river fishing charter in New Smyrna Beach with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 24 river trips in New Smyrna Beach, and the most popular trips in the area are 3 hour AM Quick Trip guided by Todd and 3hr inshore fishing charter guided by Brad.

Our guides in New Smyrna Beach are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 3716 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Looking for kid friendly river guides / fishing lessons in New Smyrna Beach? Check out our beginner and family friendly river guides in New Smyrna Beach.

What types of river fishing charters are common in New Smyrna Beach?

The most commonly sought after species for river fishing are: 1. redfish, 2. snook, 3. speckled trout, 4. mangrove snapper, and 5. black drum.

The most common fishing techniques in New Smyrna Beach are light tackle fishing, live bait fishing, and sight casting but artificial lure fishing and cut bait fishing are popular as well.

How much do New Smyrna Beach river fishing charters cost?

Prices for river fishing in New Smyrna Beach can range anywhere from about $400 to $1,263, but the average price for a half day trip for river fishing in New Smyrna Beach is $675. The average price for a full day trip for river fishing in New Smyrna Beach is $975.

Is booking a fishing guide worth the money?

Hiring a guide provides a number of benefits and many choose to book a fishing guide for a combination of experience, local knowledge, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

Working with experienced fishing guides who know the best local spots and techniques can dramatically increase your odds of a great day. Having someone who is on the water every day and knows the area like the back of their hand is going to give you the best chances of success.

Booking a guide is also more cost effective, especially if you only get out a handful of times per year. When you consider all of the costs you would incur on your own such as the price of a boat, maintenance, insurance, gas, high-quality gear and tackle, repairs, and more, you’ll find that DIY is sometimes not worth the expense.

Even if you’ve got a great setup already in your home waters, booking a guide also provides a great opportunity to experience new techniques, new locations, or even a chance at a new target species to knock off the bucket list.

What month is best for river fishing in New Smyrna Beach?

The most popular season for river fishing in New Smyrna Beach is summer, and most anglers book their trips 24 days in advance.

Do I need a New Smyrna Beach fishing license and what are the bag limits in New Smyrna Beach?

See here for more information on fishing licenses in New Smyrna Beach, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in New Smyrna Beach. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in New Smyrna Beach.

What is river fishing in New Smyrna Beach all about?

River fishing in New Smyrna Beach offers anglers a variety of opportunities to pursue different species in the rivers and waterways surrounding this coastal city. The primary river system here is the Indian River Lagoon, which is renowned for its diverse ecosystem and abundance of fish. Throughout the year, anglers can target species such as redfish, trout, snook, and tarpon, each presenting its own set of challenges and rewards.

One of the popular species to catch in New Smyrna Beach's rivers is the redfish, known for its powerful runs and brute strength. Redfish can be found year-round, with peak seasons typically in the fall and spring when they are more active and feeding heavily. Anglers use techniques such as live bait fishing with shrimp or mullet, as well as artificial lures like spoons and soft plastics, to entice these hard-fighting fish.

Another prized species in the area is the snook, known for its acrobatic leaps and aggressive strikes. Snook fishing in New Smyrna Beach is excellent in the warmer months, particularly during the summer and early fall when they move into the shallows and river mouths to feed. Techniques such as live bait fishing with pilchards or artificial lures that mimic small baitfish are effective in targeting these elusive and challenging fish.

Additionally, anglers can target speckled trout in New Smyrna Beach's rivers, particularly in the cooler months when they are more active. Speckled trout are known for their beautiful markings and willingness to strike a variety of baits and lures, including live shrimp, mullet, and artificial jigs. Fishing for speckled trout often involves casting near grassy flats, oyster beds, or deep holes where these fish tend to congregate.

Overall, river fishing in New Smyrna Beach provides anglers with a rich and diverse fishing experience, whether targeting redfish, snook, speckled trout, or other species that inhabit these waters. With the right techniques and knowledge of seasonal patterns, anglers can enjoy successful outings throughout the year, taking advantage of the area's scenic waterways and abundant fish populations.

What are the most popular months to go river fishing in New Smyrna Beach?

River fishing in New Smyrna Beach experiences distinct seasons that influence the behavior and availability of various fish species throughout the year. Understanding these seasonal patterns is crucial for anglers looking to maximize their chances of success on the water.

In the winter months, from December to February, river fishing in New Smyrna Beach tends to slow down slightly due to cooler water temperatures. However, this time of year can still be productive for anglers targeting species like speckled trout and redfish. These fish often seek warmer pockets of water, such as deeper channels or areas near power plants, where they can remain active and continue feeding.

As spring arrives, typically from March to May, river fishing in New Smyrna Beach picks up pace. Warmer temperatures stimulate increased activity among fish species like snook and tarpon, which start to move into the rivers and estuaries in search of baitfish and crustaceans. This season marks the beginning of the spawning period for many species, making them more susceptible to well-presented baits and lures.

Summer, spanning from June to August, is a peak season for river fishing in New Smyrna Beach. The water temperatures are warmer, and fish like snook, redfish, and tarpon are abundant and actively feeding. Anglers can target these species in shallow flats, river mouths, and around mangrove shorelines using live baits such as shrimp or mullet, as well as topwater lures and soft plastics. Summer also offers opportunities for night fishing, when cooler temperatures and reduced boat traffic can lead to more aggressive feeding behavior among fish.

Overall, understanding the seasonal variations in river fishing in New Smyrna Beach allows anglers to plan their outings effectively and target the most active species during each time of year. Whether fishing for speckled trout in the winter or targeting snook in the summer, each season offers unique challenges and rewards for those willing to explore the diverse river systems in this coastal Florida town.

What species are popular for river fishing in New Smyrna Beach?

River fishing in New Smyrna Beach offers anglers a variety of techniques suited to different conditions and target species. One popular method is bottom fishing with live bait such as shrimp, mullet, or crabs. This approach involves casting your bait near structures like fallen trees, docks, and submerged rocks where fish like snook, redfish, and trout often congregate. Using a Carolina rig or a simple hook and split shot setup allows the bait to settle on the riverbed, enticing bites from bottom-dwelling species.

Another effective technique in New Smyrna Beach rivers is casting artificial lures. Anglers use a range of lures including soft plastics, crankbaits, and topwater plugs to mimic the movement of prey fish. This method is versatile and can be used to target a variety of species depending on the lure type and retrieval speed. For example, fishing with topwater lures early in the morning or late in the evening can attract aggressive strikes from predatory fish like snook and tarpon.

Fly fishing is also popular in the rivers of New Smyrna Beach, particularly for anglers seeking a more challenging and rewarding experience. Fly fishermen often target species such as snook, redfish, and trout using flies that imitate shrimp, baitfish, or crustaceans. This technique requires precise casting and presentation skills to entice strikes from wary fish in different river conditions. Fly fishing in the clear, shallow waters of the rivers can provide an exhilarating experience, especially when sight casting to cruising fish along the banks or around structure.

Overall, New Smyrna Beach rivers offer a diverse range of fishing techniques that cater to both beginner and experienced anglers alike. Whether you prefer live bait fishing near structures, casting artificial lures to cover water efficiently, or the finesse of fly fishing, there are ample opportunities to hook into a variety of freshwater species in these scenic Florida waters.

What techniques are popular for river fishing in New Smyrna Beach?

When river fishing in New Smyrna Beach, anglers can target a variety of freshwater species that thrive in the area's rivers and tributaries. One of the most sought-after species is the snook, known for its aggressive strikes and strong fighting abilities. Snook can often be found near structure such as docks, fallen trees, and rocky outcrops, especially during tide changes and low-light periods. They are known to ambush prey fish like mullet and shrimp, making them responsive to both live bait and artificial lures.

Redfish are another popular target for river anglers in New Smyrna Beach. These fish are often found in shallow waters near grassy flats and oyster beds, where they feed on crustaceans and small baitfish. Redfish are known for their bronze coloration and distinctive black spot near their tail. Anglers commonly use live shrimp, crabs, or cut bait to entice redfish, as well as artificial lures such as spoons and soft plastics. They are strong fighters and can provide an exciting challenge for anglers of all skill levels.

Trout are also plentiful in the rivers around New Smyrna Beach, particularly spotted seatrout. These fish prefer deeper channels and holes where they can ambush passing prey. Trout are known for their aggressive feeding behavior, especially during periods of moving water or cooler temperatures. Anglers often use live shrimp, small baitfish, or artificial lures like soft plastics and twitch baits to target trout. They are prized for their delicious meat and are a favorite among catch-and-release anglers looking for a rewarding fishing experience.

Overall, river fishing in New Smyrna Beach offers opportunities to catch a diverse range of species, each with its own unique characteristics and habitat preferences. Whether you're targeting snook near structure, redfish in shallow flats, or trout in deeper channels, the rivers around New Smyrna Beach provide a rich and rewarding fishing experience for anglers of all preferences and skill levels.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    The four of us had a great time fishing with Captain Todd! We did a quick morning trip and it was just enough for all of us to catch a handful of fish. Todd was very knowledgeable and a great guide. Would definitely go again!

    Natalie B. | August 22, 2024

    Trip: 3 hour AM Quick Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Todd was great! Very informative regarding species of fish being caught. He cleaned our fish we kept as well. It was awesome being able to eat fresh catch same day! We will definitely make this an annual event during our beach trip from now on.

    Nicole L. | July 27, 2024

    Trip: 3 hour AM Quick Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Billy was a great captain. He was very helpful and attentive. Me and my son had a great time! Definitely an experience to remember!

    Dorothy L. | April 2, 2024

    Trip: 3 Hour Beginners and Kids Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Billy was awesome and we enjoyed the morning fishing trip with him!

    Mike G. | March 29, 2024

    Trip: Inshore Insanity

  • ★★★★★
    Great 1/2 day fish with the kids. Billy was a beauty and knows the area and how to fish !

    John T. | March 14, 2024

    Trip: 3 Hour Beginners and Kids Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great time. Capt. Billy was very knowledgeable of the area. We moved around caught some nice fish. It was a great time for my family and I.

    Matthew R. | March 12, 2024

    Trip: 3 Hour Beginners and Kids Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Great all around trip and experience, even tho it was a tough day on the water still had a great time and some good laughs.

    Nathan M. | February 22, 2024

    Trip: Inshore Insanity

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Billy was awesome. Great 21 foot boat and able to get into the shallow areas👍…down to earth personality and growing up in the area, really knows the spots to fish👍…we caught Redfish, Snapper, Jacks, and 2 catfish. Price was very reasonable and we would definitely go out with Captain Billy again😊

    Cary B. | September 14, 2023

    Trip: Inshore Insanity

Other Types of Fishing in New Smyrna Beach

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