Florida · Space Coast
AMBERJACK FISHING
IN NEW SMYRNA BEACH
New Smyrna Beach is a solid destination for amberjack fishing, with good fishing in April, May, June, July. Book a charter and target amberjack with local experts.
About Amberjack Fishing in New Smyrna Beach
The "reef donkey." Incredibly powerful fish found on deep reefs and wrecks. Known for brutal fights.
Greater Amberjack — nicknamed "reef donkeys" — are arguably the most powerful fish on Gulf reefs. These muscular, hard-fighting bruisers are found around deep wrecks, reefs, and oil platforms, and they use structure to their advantage by diving into the wreck once hooked. Amber-gold sides, a dark olive back, and a distinctive dark diagonal bar running through the eye to the dorsal fin make them easy to identify. They are relentless fighters that test tackle and angler endurance to the limit.
Scientific name: Seriola dumerili
Amberjack Seasonal Calendar — New Smyrna Beach
Month-by-month availability for amberjack in New Smyrna Beach, FL.
How to Catch Amberjack in New Smyrna Beach
Techniques & Bait
Live bait (blue runners, hardtails, pinfish) freelined or on a knocker rig near wrecks and reefs in 100-200+ feet is the top technique. Drop the bait to the top of the structure and hold on. Vertical jigging with heavy butterfly or speed jigs (200-400g) is extremely effective and has revolutionized amberjack fishing. Large topwater plugs and poppers can draw amberjack to the surface during feeding frenzies. The key is getting them away from structure immediately — heavy tackle and an aggressive hookset are essential.
Recommended Tackle
Heavy conventional rod (5'6"-6 ft), reel loaded with 65-80 lb braid, 80-100 lb fluorocarbon leader, 7/0-9/0 circle or J-hooks. Stand-up gear recommended. This is NOT a light-tackle species.
Best Nearshore Fishing Spots in New Smyrna Beach
Top spots where local captains target amberjack and other nearshore species.
New Smyrna Beach Jetties
The rock jetties at Ponce Inlet extend into the Atlantic and create prime nearshore structure where ocean currents meet the inlet outflow. Sheepshead, flounder, bluefish, Spanish mackerel, and snook congregate along the rocks year-round. The south jetty is accessible from Smyrna Dunes Park and is one of the best shore-fishing locations in Central Florida.
Sunglow Pier
The Sunglow Pier extends into the Atlantic from New Smyrna Beach's south side, providing shore access to nearshore species. Whiting, pompano, bluefish, and Spanish mackerel are caught from the pier during seasonal runs. The pier's restaurant and bait shop make it a convenient destination for both serious anglers and families.
Volusia County Nearshore Reefs
Volusia County has deployed artificial reef structures within 3-10 miles of New Smyrna Beach in 30-60 feet of water. These nearshore reefs attract sheepshead, black sea bass, triggerfish, flounder, and various snapper species. The reef sites are accessible on short boat rides from Ponce Inlet and produce consistent bottom-fishing catches year-round.
Bethune Beach Nearshore Rocks
Natural coquina rock formations dot the nearshore waters off Bethune Beach in 15-30 feet of water, creating habitat that attracts sheepshead, flounder, and black drum. These scattered rock outcroppings are surrounded by sand bottom, making them concentration points for a variety of species. The rocks are particularly productive during spring and fall when migratory species pass through.
Other Species in New Smyrna Beach
More fish you can target while visiting New Smyrna Beach.
Amberjack Fishing in New Smyrna Beach — FAQ
Amberjack fishing in New Smyrna Beach is productive during April, May, June, July, August.
Amberjack fishing charters in New Smyrna Beach are typically nearshore trips. Prices vary by trip duration and group size. Most charters include all gear, bait, licenses, and fish cleaning.
Live bait (blue runners, hardtails, pinfish) freelined or on a knocker rig near wrecks and reefs in 100-200+ feet is the top technique. Drop the bait to the top of the structure and hold on. Vertical jigging with heavy butterfly or speed jigs (200-400g) is extremely effective and has revolutionized amberjack fishing. Large topwater plugs and poppers can draw amberjack to the surface during feeding frenzies. The key is getting them away from structure immediately — heavy tackle and an aggressive hookset are essential.
No — when you book a charter in New Smyrna Beach, your captain provides all required Florida fishing licenses as part of the trip.
Amberjack regulations in Florida include minimum size limits and bag limits that vary by season. Your captain will know the current regulations and ensure compliance.
While targeting Amberjack in New Smyrna Beach, you may also catch Redfish, Sheepshead, Speckled Trout, Snook, King Mackerel. Many charter trips target multiple species for the best action.
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