Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping shark fishing experience off the coast of New Smyrna Beach, Florida. This 3-hour trip with On The Hunt Fishing Charter is tailored for serious anglers looking to tangle with some of the ocean's most powerful predators. We're talking bull sharks, blacktips, and even hammerheads – the kind of fish that'll test your skills and give you stories to tell for years.
We'll push off from the North Causeway Boat Ramp in a 23-foot Bluewave Purebay, a solid platform for battling big fish. Captain Ryan Herbach knows these waters like the back of his hand and will put you on the shark hotspots. This isn't some leisurely cruise – it's hands-on fishing where you'll be setting baits, working rods, and hopefully hanging on tight when a shark decides to run. The 200-horsepower Suzuki outboard means we can cover ground quickly to find the action. All the gear you need is provided, from heavy-duty rods to circle hooks and wire leaders. Just bring your A-game and maybe a pair of pliers for those trophy photos.
Shark fishing isn't your average day on the water. We typically use large, oily baits like mackerel or bonito to create a scent trail. Once we're anchored up, it's a waiting game – but when that rod doubles over, all hell breaks loose. You'll need to set the hook hard and be ready for a fight that could last anywhere from 15 minutes to over an hour. We practice catch and release to keep these apex predators in the ecosystem, so quick photos and careful handling are the name of the game. Captain Ryan will walk you through proper techniques to ensure both angler and shark safety.
Bull Sharks: These bruisers are the heavyweights of inshore shark fishing. Known for their stocky build and aggressive nature, bull sharks can top 500 pounds. They're most active in the warmer months and put up a dogfight like no other. Landing one of these is a true test of an angler's mettle.
Blacktip Sharks: If you're looking for acrobatics, blacktips are your target. These sharks are famous for their spectacular leaps and spins when hooked. Typically ranging from 4 to 6 feet, they're common in New Smyrna Beach waters year-round but really heat up in the spring and fall. Their speed and agility make for an exciting catch.
Spinner Sharks: Often confused with blacktips, spinner sharks are named for their spinning jumps out of the water. They're fast, powerful, and can grow up to 9 feet long. Spinners are migratory, with peak seasons in late spring and early fall. Hooking into one of these speedsters will have your drag singing.
There's something primal about shark fishing that keeps folks coming back for more. It's the anticipation as you watch that rod tip, the rush when a shark takes the bait, and the pure strength you feel through the line. New Smyrna Beach offers some of the best shark fishing on the East Coast, with a variety of species and sizes that keep things interesting. Plus, with Captain Ryan's expertise, even if you've never fished for sharks before, you've got a solid shot at hooking into something big.
If you're ready to test your skills against some of the ocean's top predators, this New Smyrna Beach shark fishing charter is calling your name. Remember, we're limited to two anglers per trip to ensure everyone gets plenty of action. All the gear is provided, so you just need to bring your game face and maybe a camera to document your catch. Keep in mind that deposits are non-refundable, so check the weather and commit when you're ready for the challenge of a lifetime. Don't miss out on the chance to battle bulls, blacktips, and maybe even a hammerhead – book your shark fishing adventure with On The Hunt Fishing Charter today!
Blacktip sharks are sleek, agile hunters that'll give you a run for your money. They usually top out around 5-6 feet and 150 pounds. You'll find them patrolling near shore, especially around artificial reefs and in muddy bays. These sharks are known for their jumps, sometimes clearing 20 feet out of the water! Summer's the hot season for blacktips. Anglers love targeting them for their explosive strikes and acrobatic fights. To up your chances, try chumming with oily fish like mackerel or herring. A local secret: use live sardines as bait – blacktips can't resist 'em. Set up multiple lines at different depths, and be ready for some fast action. These sharks can be a bit shy, so patience is key. When they do hit, hold on tight – blacktips are known for their lightning-fast runs and airborne escapes.
Bull sharks are tough customers, averaging 8-12 feet and 200-300 pounds. These stocky predators love warm, shallow coastal waters but can also swim up rivers and hang out in freshwater. They're aggressive eaters, so we often find them cruising near the shore looking for an easy meal. Summer's your best bet for hooking one of these bruisers. Anglers love targeting bulls for their raw power and the challenge they present. When you're fighting a bull shark, you're in for a serious workout. Here's a local tip: try using fresh eel as bait. The high oil content drives bulls wild, and the tough skin keeps smaller fish from picking it clean. Just be ready for a hard-hitting strike and a fight that'll test your gear and your stamina.
Spinner sharks are the acrobats of the shark world, known for their impressive leaps and spins while feeding. They typically reach 6-7 feet and weigh around 120 pounds. You'll find them in warmer coastal waters, often in schools chasing bait fish. Spring's the prime time to catch spinners as they migrate along our beaches. Anglers get a kick out of their aerial displays and the fast, energetic fights they put up. To land one, try drifting with live bait like pilchards or mullet. A local trick is to use bonito chunks – the high oil content really gets their attention. Keep an eye out for feeding frenzies at the surface, that's often a sign spinners are around. Just remember, these sharks are fast movers, so be ready for some quick action when they hit your bait.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: suzuki
Maximum Cruising Speed: 40
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 200