Get ready to chase the giants of the Atlantic on this action-packed offshore fishing trip out of New Smyrna Beach. Captain Ryan Herbach knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's itching to put you on some of the most exciting fish swimming off Florida's coast. Whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time holding a rod, this 4-hour trip aboard a sleek 23-foot Bluewave Purebay is your ticket to hooking into mahi-mahi, kingfish, grouper, and whatever else is biting. With everything from rods to bait provided, all you need to bring is your game face and a willingness to tangle with some hard-fighting fish.
Once you step aboard our well-equipped Bluewave, powered by a beefy 200-hp Suzuki, we'll zip out to the offshore grounds where the big boys play. Captain Ryan's got a sixth sense for finding the hot spots, whether it's a rip line loaded with mahi or a bottom structure holding monster grouper. We'll use a mix of techniques depending on what's biting - maybe some trolling for kings and mahi, or dropping lines for grouper. The beauty of offshore fishing is you never know what might show up, so be ready for anything from a acrobatic mahi leaping out of the water to the freight-train pull of a big grouper trying to rock you up.
We're all about putting you on fish, so we've got our boat rigged with top-notch gear. You'll be using quality rods and reels that can handle whatever the Atlantic throws at you. For mahi and kings, we often troll with ballyhoo or artificial lures, covering water to find the schools. When we're targeting grouper, it's all about precision bottom fishing - dropping live bait or jigs right on the structure where these bruisers hide. Don't sweat it if you're new to these techniques; Captain Ryan's got patience for days and he'll walk you through every step, from setting the drag to working a fish alongside the boat. By the end of the trip, you'll be handling that rod like a pro.
Mahi-Mahi (Dolphinfish): These neon-colored acrobats are the crowd-pleasers of the offshore world. Known for their spectacular aerial displays and delicious meat, mahi can grow up to 30 pounds in our waters. They're usually found near floating debris or weedlines, and they hunt in schools, so when you hook one, get ready for more. The best time to target them is late spring through summer when the water warms up. Mahi fight hard and fast, often leaping clear of the water multiple times during the fight - it's a rush you won't forget.
Gag Grouper: These bottom-dwelling bruisers are the heavyweights of the reef. Gags can top 50 pounds, and they use every ounce of that muscle to try and drag you back into their rocky lairs. We target them year-round, but the bite can be especially good in the cooler months. When you hook a big gag, it's all hands on deck - these fish hit hard and dive deep, so you'll need to crank like crazy to turn their heads. The reward? Some of the best-tasting fillets in the sea.
Kingfish: When it comes to speed and power, few fish can match the king mackerel. These sleek predators can top 50 pounds and scream line off your reel at blistering speeds. We catch them trolling or slow-trolling live baits, and when they hit, hold on tight! Kings are known for their long, smoking runs and their tendency to sky out of the water. They're most active in our waters from late spring through fall, and they're a blast to catch whether you're a newbie or a seasoned pro.
There's something special about heading offshore out of New Smyrna Beach. Maybe it's the moment when the coastline disappears and it's just you, the boat, and the endless blue. Or maybe it's the anticipation as you watch your line, knowing that the next moment could bring the fight of your life. Our repeat customers tell us it's the combination of Captain Ryan's expertise, the quality of the fishing, and the sheer unpredictability of what might end up on the end of your line. One day you might be reeling in a cooler full of mahi, the next you could be locked in an epic battle with a monster grouper. It's this variety that keeps the adrenaline pumping and has anglers booking their next trip before we even hit the dock.
Look, if you're itching for some real offshore action, this is your chance. We're talking about hooking into fish that'll make your arms burn and your heart race. Captain Ryan's got the know-how to put you on the fish, and with our top-notch gear, you've got everything you need to land the big one. Whether you're dreaming of your first mahi, looking to test your skills against a bruiser grouper, or just want to experience the thrill of battling a kingfish, we've got you covered. Remember, the boat only takes two anglers, so spots fill up fast. Don't let another season slip by wondering what could have been. Grab your spot now, and get ready for a fishing trip that'll have you bragging for years to come. The fish are out there waiting - are you ready to take the challenge?
Gag Grouper are hard-fighting bottom dwellers that'll test your strength. Adults average 20-30 inches but can reach 50+ inches and 80 pounds. You'll find them around rocky bottoms, reefs, and wrecks in 60-250 feet of water. They're most active in cooler months when they move closer to shore to spawn. Gags put up a tough battle, trying to dive back into their rocky homes. Use heavy tackle with 50-80 pound line and large circle hooks. Live bait like pinfish or mullet works great. Grouper make excellent table fare with firm, white meat. Local trick: when you feel the bite, reel fast and pull up hard to get them away from structure before they can dig in.
Mahi Mahi are a blast to catch and great eating too. These colorful fish average 15-30 pounds but can get up to 80+ pounds. Look for them near floating debris or weedlines offshore, especially in summer and fall. They're fast swimmers and put up an acrobatic fight when hooked. Mahi travel in schools, so if you catch one, there's often more nearby. Use live bait like ballyhoo or squid, or try brightly colored lures that mimic flying fish. Keep your eyes peeled for frigate birds - they'll often lead you right to the mahi. The meat is mild and firm, perfect for grilling. Pro tip: have a gaff ready, as mahi can shake hooks easily once they're at the boat.
Northern Kingfish are fun, scrappy fighters that'll keep you busy in the surf. They're on the smaller side, usually 10-14 inches and under 2 pounds. Look for them in the sandy shallows, especially near jetties and piers. Late summer's prime time when they're most abundant near shore. Use light tackle with small hooks baited with clams, bloodworms, or squid strips. These bottom feeders put up a good scrap for their size. Anglers love targeting them for the challenge and their tasty white meat. Try dragging your bait slowly along the bottom to mimic their natural prey. Keep an eye out for their distinctive V-shaped markings when you're reeling them in.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: suzuki
Maximum Cruising Speed: 40
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 200