Hey there, angler! Looking to wet a line in some of Florida's most fish-rich waters? You've just found your next big catch. Our 4-hour morning trip out of New Smyrna Beach is the perfect way to scratch that fishing itch without eating up your whole day. We'll cruise through the legendary Mosquito Lagoon, where the fish are always biting and the scenery never disappoints. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting your feet wet, our expert guides at Code Red Fishing Charters have got you covered. So grab your hat and sunscreen – it's time to fish!
Picture this: You're out on the water as the sun's coming up, rod in hand, surrounded by the natural beauty of Mosquito Lagoon. Our 4-hour trip is the sweet spot – long enough to get into some serious fishing action, but short enough to fit into your vacation schedule. We provide all the gear you need, from rods and reels to bait and tackle. Our seasoned captains know these waters like the back of their hand, so you're in for some prime fishing spots where the big ones lurk. We're talking Flounder, Tarpon, Snook, and a whole bunch more. And with a max of two guests per trip, you'll get plenty of one-on-one time with your guide to hone your skills and learn some local secrets.
On this trip, we're all about inshore fishing techniques. We'll likely be doing a mix of sight fishing and blind casting, depending on the conditions and what's biting. Sight fishing is a blast – we'll cruise along, scanning the clear shallows for fish, then make precise casts to entice them. It's like hunting, but on the water. We might also do some drift fishing over grass flats or work the mangrove shorelines. Our boats are set up for easy casting and fighting fish, with plenty of deck space and stable platforms. We use light to medium tackle, which gives you a great feel for the fight without wearing you out. And don't worry if you're new to this – our guides are patient teachers who love showing folks the ropes.
"Great time today with Cpt Lee, caught plenty of fish, and he took extra time with my 11 year old grandson and his friend. Comfortable boat and quality gear, we had a terrific time and will charter with him again." - Robert
"Great experience! I wouldn't go on any other charter in the area. Captain Matt was great and made me feel at home. Matt did a great job we caught fish and learned a lot about his fishery. I recommend this boat/captain Lee A+++!" - Mark
Southern Flounder: These flat fish are masters of camouflage, blending in perfectly with the sandy bottom. They're ambush predators, so we'll be targeting them with slow-moving baits along the bottom. Flounder fishing is all about feeling the subtle bite and setting the hook just right. They're fantastic eating fish, so if you're looking for a fresh dinner, these are a great target.
Snook: Snook are the rock stars of inshore fishing. They're strong, acrobatic, and love to hang out around structure like mangroves and docks. We'll be casting lures or live bait right up against the shoreline to tempt these guys out. The thrill of a snook exploding on your bait is hard to beat. They're catch-and-release most of the year, but even if you can't keep them, the fight is worth it.
Tarpon: Known as the "silver king," tarpon are the giants of the inshore world. These prehistoric-looking fish can grow over 100 pounds and are famous for their spectacular leaps when hooked. Tarpon fishing is a game of patience and strength – you might only get a few shots at them, but when you hook up, it's the fight of a lifetime. We typically target them in the warmer months when they're most active.
Sea Trout: Spotted seatrout, or "specks" as we call them, are one of the most popular inshore species. They're abundant, great to eat, and a lot of fun to catch on light tackle. We'll often find them over grass flats, and they're suckers for a well-presented artificial lure. The "gator" trout – the big ones over 20 inches – are prized catches that'll test your skills.
Redfish: Redfish, or red drum, are the bulldogs of the flats. They're known for their powerful runs and their distinctive spot near the tail. We love sight fishing for reds in the shallows, where you can see them tailing as they root for crabs in the bottom. They'll hit a variety of baits and lures, and they're excellent table fare if you decide to keep one for dinner.
Alright, folks, let's cut to the chase – this 4-hour trip is the real deal. You get the best of New Smyrna's inshore fishing scene, expert guidance, and a chance to tangle with some of Florida's most sought-after species. Whether you're looking to bend a rod, learn some new tricks, or just enjoy a morning on the water, we've got you covered. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't let this one slip away. Give us a call or hit that 'Book Now' button. We'll see you on the water, and tight lines!
May 31, 2023
Great experience! I wouldn't go on any other charter in the area. Captain Matt was great and made me feel at home. Matt did a great job we caught fish and learned a lot about his fishery. I recommend this boat/captain Lee A+++!
August 21, 2022
Redfish are one of our most popular targets, and for good reason. These bronze bruisers are found in shallow flats, often tailing in water so skinny their backs are out of the water. Most run 20-30 inches, but bull reds can top 40 inches. Fall is prime time as they school up to spawn. Reds are known for their powerful runs - hook one and hang on! They're also great eating fish. Look for them around oyster bars and mangroves. A gold spoon is a classic lure, but live bait like finger mullet works well too. Pro tip: When you spot a tailing red, cast well past it and slowly drag your bait into its field of vision. A sudden plop nearby will often spook these wary fish.
Sea trout, or speckled trout, are a staple in our waters. They typically run 14-20 inches but can reach 30 inches in rare cases. Look for them over grass flats and around oyster bars, especially early and late in the day. Spring and fall are prime seasons. Trout are known for their soft mouths, so a gentle hookset is key. They put up a decent fight and taste great on the table. Anglers love sight-casting to them in shallow water. Try a popping cork rig with a live shrimp or soft plastic underneath. When you see those distinctive gold spots, cast beyond the fish and work it back - trout can be spooky in skinny water.
Snook are one of the coolest fish we target around here. They're sleek silver missiles that love to hang out near mangroves, docks, and other structure. Most run 24-30 inches, but trophy fish can top 40 inches and 30 pounds. Spring and fall are great times to find 'em as they move between inshore and nearshore waters. Snook put up an amazing fight - they'll make blistering runs and leap clear out of the water trying to throw the hook. Their meat is top-notch too, with a buttery flavor. Live bait like pilchards works well, but artificial lures can be deadly. Try working a soft plastic jerk bait or topwater plug right up against the mangroves. Just be ready when they blast it!
Southern flounder are masters of camouflage, blending perfectly with sandy or muddy bottoms in shallow coastal waters. They typically grow 15-18 inches long but can reach over 30 inches. Look for them near structure like oyster beds or in channels and inlets. Fall is prime time as they move to spawn offshore. Flounder are ambush predators, lying in wait to gulp down passing baitfish. Anglers love their delicate, mild flavor. To hook one, try slowly dragging a live mullet or soft plastic along the bottom. When you feel that telltale thump, give it a second before setting the hook - flounder often grab prey sideways before repositioning it to swallow headfirst.
Tarpon are the silver kings of our waters. These prehistoric-looking beasts can reach 8 feet long and 280 pounds, though 100-pounders are more common. We find them rolling in deep channels and along beaches from spring through fall. Hooking one is just the start - tarpon are famous for their acrobatic leaps and long, dogged fights. It's all catch-and-release, but the thrill of battling these giants keeps anglers coming back. Live mullet, crabs, or big swim baits are go-to baits. My tip? When a tarpon jumps, drop your rod tip to give it slack. This "bowing to the king" helps keep the hook from tearing out during those spectacular aerial displays.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Suzuki
Maximum Cruising Speed: 40
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 140
Great time today with Cpt Lee, caught plenty of fish, and he took extra time with my 11 year old grandson and his friend. Comfortable boat and quality gear, we had a terrific time and will charter with him again.