East Cape Evo 17
The skiff. Mosquito Lagoon, poled, quiet.
| Anglers | 2 max |
| Trips | Half day $400 · Full day $600 |
| Video | 17 EVOx review with Capt. Rick — East Cape Boats |
Shallow water fishing at its weirdest.
Mosquito LagoonPonce InletPort Canaveral
Fly and light tackle with Capt. Rick Hilliard. Sight fishing the lagoon from the skiff. Inshore, nearshore and offshore on the 25 Open.
Video: Bottom Feeders · @Weirdwaterfishing
Two boats. Pick your water.
The skiff is for poling the shallows and seeing the fish before you cast. The 25 Open is for everything the skiff can't reach: inshore, the inlet, and running outside.
East Cape 25 Open
The bay boat. Inshore, nearshore, offshore.
| Anglers | up to 6 · +$50 per person over 4 |
| Trips | Inshore $550 / $850 · Offshore $1,000 |
| Video | Rick's Ice Blue 25 Open, second station, Honda 350 — East Cape Boats |
Latest from the water.
Rick runs his own show. His channel, newest first, plus East Cape's walkthroughs of the two boats he runs.
Frame from video · real photo comingCapt. Rick Hilliard
“Born and raised in New Smyrna Beach, I have been fishing these native waters for most of my life. Saltwater fishing is my oldest passion. Having fished all around the world, both conventional and fly, I consistently prefer sight casting redfish in Mosquito Lagoon. I don't think there is a more exciting fish to hunt.”
“I began fishing in the family pool (often without success), and quickly moved on to the waters I guide today. My passion is stalking redfish in the way back, in shallow water where they are tailing.”
“Extremely shallow water sight fishing in the lagoon. 20+ years fishing Mosquito Lagoon and the Ponce Inlet area. High quality gear, exceptional hospitality and expert knowledge.”
USCG licensed captain · Merritt Island NWR special guide permit
Redfish · seatrout · black drum · snook · sharks · cobia · snapper · tarpon in season, never promised
Redfish · seatrout · black drum · snook · sharks · cobia · snapper · tarpon in season, never promised
East CapeHonda MarineCashion RodsFlorida Fishing ProductsFins Braid
“Cpt. Rick is fantastic. He is one of those rare guides who can quickly assess his angler's abilities and adapt to their specific styles. He knows where the fish are and he's really good at communicating their exact location to his angler. His boat is quiet and he doesn't spook the fish away by yelling loud instructions…”
“Rick knows the water he fishes so well it's crazy. We didn't even fish in the most ideal conditions and he STILL got me on some really fun ones.”
“What an awesome experience. Captain Rick went above and beyond to put us on some fish. I would highly recommend Weird Water Fishing.”
“Capt. Rick put us on the fish! Had an awesome time on the water and had a ton of opportunities to catch fish. It was my first time sight fishing so my angling skills were what held me back…”
“We caught a lot of fish. Rick was awesome, and everything was top notch.”
Straight answers.
Where do we meet?
Rick confirms the exact meeting spot and time when he confirms your date. He launches from more than one ramp, so the spot is never on the website.
How many anglers can you take?
Two on the skiff. Up to six on the bay boat; over four anglers is $50 per extra person.
Deposit and cancellations?
A $100 deposit holds the date and is non-refundable, but may be applied to a future trip at the captain's discretion. If the captain cancels for weather, the deposit is refunded or the trip rescheduled — your choice.
Do you guarantee fish?
No. It's fishing. What Rick does is put you in position to spot, cast at and catch a fish, and tell you straight what's biting.
Can we fish for tarpon?
They're very seasonal, and Rick never promises them. Ask, and he'll tell you honestly what's on for your dates.
How do I book?
Tap Book a trip and tell the assistant your dates and how many are coming. It answers any hour, and Rick confirms every booking himself. You can also call or text (386) 343-6291.