Deep-Sea: The Daytona Beach area features some of the best ocean fishing found anywhere. Marlin, with an emphasis on Blues, are found in the Gulf Stream. Closer to shore, Sailfish, Dolphin, King Mackerel, Wahoo and Tuna are caught on trolled baits. On the bottom around the numerous reefs, Grouper and Red Snapper are the most avidly sought species while the bruising kingsize Jack Crevalle and Amberjack provide tackle-busting variety. A fleet of nearly 25 offshore craft -- including both private charter and party boats -- sails daily, most from the docks at Ponce Inlet. The area plays host to the Greater Daytona Beach Striking Fish tournament each May.

Surf and Pier: Surf fishing here is a year-round sport. It requires only medium-weight tackle and some shrimp or mullet for bait. Hard-fighting species like Pompano, Whiting, Bluefish, Redfish, Flounder and Jack Crevalle thrive in the 23-mile stretch of fishing area. Many varieties of fish are caught from the Ocean Pier in the heart of Daytona Beach and the Sunglow Pier located at the southern end of the beach. There is a daily pier charge, with monthly and seasonal passes available.

401 S. Beach Street, Daytona Beach (904) 226-2343. Explore the Halifax River at a leisurely pace on an 1890s-style Fantail Launch, and see historic homes and beautiful parks, islands and marinas. Dolphins and diving birds frequently provide entertainment during the ride. Tours include the Midday Waterway, Riverfront Estates, Historic Downtown and Sunset/City Lights Excursions. The "Show Dock" boarding gate is at the Halifax Harbor Marina. Call for schedule.

Boarding at the Sea Harvest Restaurant between the North and South Bridges, New Smyrna Beach (904) 428-0201. Experience Daytona Beach and nearby New Smyrna Beach from a different perspective. Enjoy a leisurely voyage on the "Manatee" which cruises the Indian River on lunch and sunset cruises. Call for schedule.

4950 S. Peninsula Drive, Ponce Inlet (904) 767-7676 For those who desire a faster pace, the Sea Critter is a 65-foot, 2160-horsepower vessel that offers a combination scenic inlet cruise with a 30-45 mph "thrill ride" on the Atlantic Ocean. Call for "Blast-off" schedule.

South of Silver Beach Bridge, downtown Daytona Beach (904) 253-0575. A great place to dock your boat and enjoy a picnic or cast your line off the fishing dock. There's also a fuel dock and free public boat ramp. The Columbia Plaza at Halifax Harbor features Spanish and Caribbean cuisine in a magnificent waterfront setting which overlooks Florida's largest east coast marina. Open daily, dawn to dusk.