Meet Captain Neal Goodrich

Captain Neal comes from a long line of passionate anglers, with fishing deeply woven into the fabric of his family’s story. For four generations, his family has worked the same waters around New Smyrna Beach and Mosquito Lagoon, passing down not just skills, but a genuine respect for the rhythms of the sea. His roots run all the way back to the early island settlers—his great-great-grandparents lived in tune with the tides, building a lifestyle around what the water provided. Today, that heritage lives on through Captain Neal’s deep connection to the local ecosystem and his unwavering dedication to preserving the natural beauty of Mosquito Lagoon.

Growing up surrounded by these waters, Captain Neal has developed an intimate knowledge of the area's tides, channels, and seasonal fish patterns. He’s spent countless hours on the water, honing his skills and paying close attention to the subtle shifts that make each day unique. As the trout bite heats up, you’ll often find him poling the flats in search of the perfect spot, always in tune with what the fish are doing and where they’re likely to be. It’s not just about catching—it’s about understanding the environment and helping others connect with it, too.

Captain Neal brings a versatile range of techniques to the table, making him a reliable guide for anglers of all experience levels. He’s known for his finesse with light tackle, precision in bottom fishing, and expertise in popping and drift fishing. Whether it's targeting tailing Redfish or teasing surface strikes from predatory fish, Neal adapts his approach to match the conditions and goals of each trip. His calm demeanor and teaching style make learning new techniques enjoyable, especially for those who are new to fishing or looking to sharpen their skills in a hands-on setting.

About The Boat

The vessel behind every successful day on the water is a 19’ Polar flats boat, originally built in 1996 and fully restored in 2015. Powered by a dependable 90HP Suzuki engine from 2016, it’s a sleek and efficient ride designed for both speed and stability. With a cruising speed of up to 30 knots and space for up to four guests, this boat is perfect for navigating the shallow flats and backwaters of New Smyrna Beach. Its layout allows for easy casting and movement, ensuring a comfortable and productive day on the water with Captain Neal at the helm.