What would you recommend to anglers fishing in New Smyrna Beach, Florida for the first time?

Nothing really, this was our first time fishing there, and we had an awesome time!!! And the only reason I say no it wasn't what I expected at booking, or not to did we catch the fish we wanted, was cause we thought we were going out deeper, and the fish would be different, and bigger. But it doesn't take anything away from the fact we caught fish we never thought we'd catch, seen fish we've never seen before, and it was just an amazing time!!!

Be patient, as the weather dictates what kind of fishing can be done. But, there is plenty of in-shore fishing to be had during those times when you can't get out to deeper water. Check out Reel Compulsive fishing charters. My friend and I had a great time. Caught 13 different species of fish, and even reeled in a Stone Crab that wouldn't let go of my bait shrimp. Took his big main claw, and tossed him back. Dolphins and manatees routinely swimming by the boat, both while anchored and while moving. So, you can get some wildlife watching and fishing in at the same time.

Pay for the 12 hour trips if it is offered because the bite is good early in the morning and it gets good again late in the evening, but if you only pay for the 8 hour trip then you'll loose out on those evening bites.

Highly recommend it. The captain worked extra hard to make as enjoyable as possible thumbs up to Fred Carter, Carter's charters. A very memorable trip,hanging a fish of a lifetime and everyone had a time about to fight it thanks a million

Most people tell me that this is a great place to fish and with all the charters, I believe them. We got hit with a dramatic change in weather coming in and it looked like nobody was catching that day. Oh well, that is why they call it fishing. We will be back.

If there are children attending give them 2 children’s Dramamine recommended by my pediatrician- no one got sick with the 6ft waves. Also don’t assume you will catch 20 fish - we went out at 6:30am started off great with a Macrall and small shark after 3 caught 2 were lost and never caught another. Long trip when everything was caught by 7:30

Be ready to have the best time ever. Our captain and mate was able to put us on the best fish and made our experience one of a lifetime. We will for sure go back and use Reel Compulsive. We are more then pleased!!

Fishing in Mosquito Lagoon is unlike any other place we have fished- the water was shallow and the fish easy to spot. The wildlife in the lagoon is absolutely amazing between the Manatees, Dolphins, fish, and Osprey. If you are looking for a truly unique fishing experience with a rich wildlife experience, you must fish here!!

We really enjoyed the half day. We booked the shark trip, no sharks but absolutely brought some fish on the boat. The poles saw plenty of action. Captain Tony brought us to a couple really great locations. At some points, as soon as the hook was let down, strikes came. We had many double strikes. 11 keepers. A great time! See you next time too.

Pick your months carefully. I added this as a last minute thing & didn’t expect a huge bite so I was pleased we had a good weather day with adequate bite for January.

We enjoyed the intracoastal option for big fish without the seasick risk of the ocean.

Book a full day so that you have time to make the run out to where the big fish are. It was so worth it....

Don't waste your time with boats. Surf fish or fish the draw bridge. Look for a Captain Mike, he's supposed to be experienced but has tiny boat.

It was our first time and we caught 11 fish. Don’t know if that’s good but we felt good about our day

Yes, the fishing in Mosquito Lagoon (part of the intra-coastal waterway) is great -- beautiful calm conditions and some great fishing spots.

Follow the weather forecast and checkup with the captain to hit the right time for a trip. Remember waterproof cloth especially in the spring and fall. The sea can be rough.

Gary Bell is the best guide you can hire. Great teacher and conversation along with a very nice Ranger 220 Bahia boat for up to 5 to fish.

Don’t be afraid to take others that never fished before,My wife done well and the captain was very helpful with her

Have fun sit back and he’ll put you on some fish but always remember it’s not called catching it’s called fishing....have a great time and thanks again!

Keep an eye on the weather and water conditions. Try to pick a calm day. And if the water is clear, even better.

Be ready for a fight with those fish. Be ready for the heat. And just enjoy the experience!

Keep in mind that the most common catch is red snapper, a lot of fun, but not in season to keep.

Plenty of sunscreen, stay hydrated, listen to the Captain and watch what he does.

Book early. Sunscreen. Enjoy the scenery and weather before the August heat arrives.

Yes would recommend..great experience..will definetly look Brad up again next spring break

Enjoy the experience they don't call it fishing for nothing you don't always catch what you want