Southwind Charters with Freddie Z 

4.8/5 (180 reviews)
 
Federally permitted
 3948 South Peninsula Drive, Port Orange, FL 32127, United States

Southwind Charters offers nearshore and offshore fishing trips out of New Smyrna Beach, Florida. With more than 20 years of experience under his belt, Captain Freddie knows how to make sure you have the ultimate offshore fishing experience. Feel free to bring your whole family and get ready for a day to remember.

You will be fishing aboard the Southwind, a custom-designed 41’ Jersey Sportfisherman with a 450 HP Detroit Diesel engine that has it cruising a comfortable 20 knots. You needn’t worry about being cramped on this boat as it has a large deck with three fighting chairs and plenty of space for up to six prospective anglers.

Due to the fact you’ll be fishing out of Ponce Inlet, you can expect to pick from a multitude of fishing opportunities. The trips will take you up to 50 miles out, and the area is full of wrecks, reefs, ledges and artificial reefs that are perfect for bottom fishing. If you’re more interested in trolling, you can find a great deal of pelagic fish out there such as King Mackerel, Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, and Sailfish, among others.

Captain Freddie will provide everything you can possibly need for a successful trip, which includes rods, reels, bait, tackle, and fishing licenses as well. Make sure to bring your sunglasses, as well as drinks and snacks if you’re a fan, and leave the rest to Freddie. After the trip, the first mate will clean and fillet anything you catch for your convenience. Gratuity is expected and appreciated.

Freddie Zona

Captain

Freddie Zona

20 years of experience
 ID & credentials verified

Most popular features:

 Fishing License
 Live Bait
 You Keep Catch
 Catch cleaning & filleting
 Toilet
 Child Friendly
 Ice Box
 Rods, reels & tackle
 Fighting Chair

Trip availability and prices

Trip Date:
Days:
Group Size:
Almost there...
Half Day Trip (AM)
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
4 Hour Trip, starts at 7:00 AM
Price for up to 6 people
US $800 
Half Day Trip (PM)
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
4 Hour Trip, starts at 2:00 PM
Price for up to 6 people
US $800 
3/4 Day Trip
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
6 Hour Trip, starts at 7:00 AM
Price for up to 6 people
US $1,100 
Full Day Trip
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
8 Hour Trip, starts at 6:30 AM
Price for up to 6 people
US $1,400 
Extended Day Trip
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
10 Hour Trip, starts at 6:00 AM
Price for up to 6 people
US $1,700 
Big Game Trophy Sportfishing Trip
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
12 Hour Trip, starts at 5:00 AM
Price for up to 6 people
US $1,900 
There are 5 people looking at this charter.

Customer reviews

Rating summary

4.8/5
out of 5 stars from 180 reviews
Boat
4.6/5
Crew
4.9/5
Experience
4.8/5

Photos & videos by reviewers (173)

Mahi Mahi
Wonderful adventure!
Wonderful adventure!
+170

Angler rating

152
18
3
1
1

Anglers claimed

Good experience

96%

Appropriate for children

93%

Friendly captain

98%

Satisfied with the boat

99%

Recommend this charter

95%

Caught fish

85%

Showing 1 - 5 of 180 reviews
Josh S.
Josh S.
5.0/5

Experience:

5.0/5

Boat

5.0/5

Crew

5.0/5

Overall

Family Fun Fish Day

VERIFIED

Half Day Trip (AM) on April 2, 2025

I took my wife, boys ages 15 and 16, and my daughter age 9. It was our first family fishing trip. Captain Freddie and his mate (daughter) Shelby were hands on the moment we stepped aboard. Captain Freddie asked what we wanted to accomplish and what time we wanted to be home and made it all happen! Plenty of bait and great equipment was on board ready to be used. We got family photos we will cherish forever… I would highly recommend Captain Freddie Z!!

I took my wife, boys ages 15 and 16, and my daughter age 9. It was our first family fishing trip. Captain Freddie and his mate (daughter) Shelby were hands on the moment we stepped aboard. Captain Freddie asked what we wanted to accomplish and what time we wanted to be home and made it all happen! Plenty of bait and great equipment was on board ready to be used. We got family photos we will cherish forever… I would highly recommend Captain Freddie Z!!  

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 Josh S. recommends Southwind Charters with Freddie Z
Freddie Zona
Freddie Zona (The Captain)
Replied on April 3, 2025
Truly enjoyed fishing with yall today. Enjoy your harvest and hope to see you soon!

Todd G.
Todd G.
5.0/5

Experience:

5.0/5

Boat

5.0/5

Crew

5.0/5

Overall

Best fishing trip !!

VERIFIED

Half Day Trip (PM) on March 13, 2025

Captain Freddy, Shelby and Gage could not have been more helpful, friendly and kind!! We had very novice fisherman in our group and the crew made the day absolutely AMAZING. They cleaned our fish perfectly, we cooked them all up the next night for a delicious dinner. I cannot recommend a better crew and we definitely will be back !!! Thank you again so much, Todd & Kitty Grugel

Captain Freddy, Shelby and Gage could not have been more helpful, friendly and kind!! We had very novice fisherman in our group and the crew made the day absolutely AMAZING. They cleaned our fish perfectly, we cooked them all up the next night for a delicious dinner. I cannot recommend a better crew and we definitely will be back !!! Thank you again so much, Todd & Kitty Grugel  

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 Todd G. recommends Southwind Charters with Freddie Z

Larry M.
Larry M.
4.0/5

Experience:

4.0/5

Boat

4.0/5

Crew

4.0/5

Overall

Friendly, Knowledgeable Crew – A Memorable Day on the Water

VERIFIED

Half Day Trip (AM) on March 24, 2025

We had a good experience overall and really appreciated the crew’s effort to make the most of our time on the water. Both the captain and first mate were kind, professional, and extremely knowledgeable. They took the time to explain everything, answer questions, and adjust the plan as needed based on the conditions that day. You could tell they genuinely wanted us to have a great trip. The boat itself was comfortable and well-maintained, with good shade and seating. It's an older diesel vessel, so while it’s not the fastest, it ran smoothly and was a solid ride for our half-day adventure. The fishing gear was in great working order—simple, functional, and easy to use. We did lose a few jigs and break some lines while chasing cobia, so if you're booking for that purpose, it may be worth asking about heavier tackle and extra jigs. For bottom fishing, live bait like pinfish might help increase your chances, but again, that's just a suggestion based on our day. We packed a lot into a short charter—trolling the channel, trying a few bottom fishing spots, and even getting the thrill of chasing rays in search of cobia. We didn’t land much, but the effort was definitely there, and the crew stayed upbeat and engaged throughout. A couple of small notes: be sure to confirm your meeting location in advance and ask who your captain will be—just for clarity. For us, it wasn’t an issue at all, but it’s nice to know ahead of time. All in all, a fun outing with a great crew. And don’t forget to bring a tip—they absolutely earn it!

We had a good experience overall and really appreciated the crew’s effort to make the most of our time on the water. Both the captain and first mate were kind, professional, and extremely knowledgeable. They took the time to explain everything, answer questions, and adjust the plan as needed based on the conditions that day. You could tell they genuinely wanted us to have a great trip. The boat itself was comfortable and well-maintained, with good shade and seating. It's an older diesel vessel,...  

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 Larry M. recommends Southwind Charters with Freddie Z
Freddie Zona
Freddie Zona (The Captain)
Replied on March 26, 2025
We are glad you enjoyed your 4 hour fishing adventure with us.

James S.
James S.
4.7/5

Experience:

4.0/5

Boat

5.0/5

Crew

5.0/5

Overall

Great Fishing trip

VERIFIED

3/4 Day Trip on July 12, 2024

Although not much was biting, the captain and crew worked hard trying to find where the fish were. We finally found the spot and were reeling them in one after another. The Captain said we were going to go over on our time but we were going to check out a couple places until we finally found the right spot. First Mate worked hard making sure everyone was able to fish, baiting hooks and keeping the area clean. Great Trip!

Although not much was biting, the captain and crew worked hard trying to find where the fish were. We finally found the spot and were reeling them in one after another. The Captain said we were going to go over on our time but we were going to check out a couple places until we finally found the right spot. First Mate worked hard making sure everyone was able to fish, baiting hooks and keeping the area clean. Great Trip!  

 James S. recommends Southwind Charters with Freddie Z
2 persons find this review helpful
Freddie Zona
Freddie Zona (The Captain)
Replied on July 14, 2024
Glad yall enjoyed your day

E. J. R.
E. J. R.
5.0/5

Experience:

5.0/5

Boat

5.0/5

Crew

5.0/5

Overall

Class Act

VERIFIED

Extended Day Trip on July 17, 2024

6th trip - went an extra 45 minutes when we got on more fish when we were suppose to turn - then an hour on the return - with rods away - Captain spotted a possibility and stopped the boat - (second trip with him getting a sail)

6th trip - went an extra 45 minutes when we got on more fish when we were suppose to turn - then an hour on the return - with rods away - Captain spotted a possibility and stopped the boat - (second trip with him getting a sail)  

 E. J. R. recommends Southwind Charters with Freddie Z

...

FAQs about Southwind Charters with Freddie Z

What are the trip rates for Southwind Charters with Freddie Z?

Southwind Charters with Freddie Z offers the following trips to customers:

  • US $800 per group - Half Day Trip (AM) (4 hours)
  • US $800 per group - Half Day Trip (PM) (4 hours)
  • US $1,100 per group - 3/4 Day Trip (6 hours)
  • US $1,400 per group - Full Day Trip (8 hours)
  • US $1,700 per group - Extended Day Trip (10 hours)
  • US $1,900 per group - Big Game Trophy Sportfishing Trip (12 hours)
Which amenities are available onboard with Southwind Charters with Freddie Z?

When you book a trip with Southwind Charters with Freddie Z, you can expect the following amenities onboard:

  • Toilet
  • Fighting Chair
  • GPS
  • Fishfinder
  • Flybridge
  • Live Bait Well
  • Outriggers
  • Ice Box
  • Radio
What's included in the trip price with Southwind Charters with Freddie Z?

Trips booked with Southwind Charters with Freddie Z include:

  • Rods, reels & tackle
  • Live Bait
  • Lures
  • Catch cleaning & filleting
  • First Mate (20% gratuity is expected and appreciated.)
  • Fishing License
What types of fishing does Southwind Charters with Freddie Z offer?

Southwind Charters with Freddie Z offers the following types of fishing:

  • Nearshore Fishing
  • Offshore Fishing
  • Reef Fishing
  • Wreck Fishing
What fishing techniques does Southwind Charters with Freddie Z offer?

Southwind Charters with Freddie Z offers the following fishing techniques:

  • Light Tackle
  • Heavy Tackle
  • Bottom Fishing
  • Trolling
  • Jigging
  • Deep Sea Fishing
Which fish species can I catch with Southwind Charters with Freddie Z?

Top targeted fish species with Southwind Charters with Freddie Z include:

  • Amberjack
  • Barracuda (Great)
  • Bonito
  • Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
  • Grouper (Black)
  • King Mackerel (Kingfish)
  • Marlin (Blue)
  • Sailfish
  • Snapper (Red)
  • Tuna (Yellowfin)
  • Wahoo

Your captain

Freddie Zona

Port Orange, Florida, United States

4 Fishing Reports
ID & license verified
187 Customer reviews
Response time 3 hours
Member since October 2014

Captain Freddie Zona is the owner and operator of Freddie Z Fishing aboard Southwind Charters. He has fished the waters of Central Florida since 1994 and enjoys sharing the knowledge he's picked up over the years. He knows how much fun fishing as a family adventure is, and likes nothing more than to show the little ones how to get started. Captain Shelby Zona is the 2nd generation of "Zona" to helm/ crew the FV SouthWind. She has been aboard the vessel fishing out of Ponce Inlet, FL 15+ years with her father Captain Freddie Zona from 1st mate into relief captaincy. Captain Shelby enjoys sharing her knowledge derived from learning and refining the skills of nearshore and offshore fishing.

Our Team
Shelby Z.

Shelby Z.

Captain

Shelby Z.

Shelby Z.

First mate

The fish you can target

Amberjack
Amberjack
Great Barracuda
Great Barracuda
Skipjack
Skipjack
Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
Black Grouper
Black Grouper
King Mackerel (Kingfish)
King Mackerel (Kingfish)
Blue Marlin
Blue Marlin
Sailfish
Sailfish
Red Snapper
Red Snapper
Yellowfin Tuna
Yellowfin Tuna
Wahoo
Wahoo

What is the boat like?

Boat Image
Boat category
Sportfishing boats
Capacity
6 persons
Boat length
41 ft
Year built
1986
Boat manufacturer
Jersey
Boat type
Sportfishing

Engine model
Detroit Diesel
Powered by
1 x 450HP
Max cruising speed
20 knots

What kind of fishing will you do?

Nearshore Fishing

Offshore Fishing

Reef Fishing

Wreck Fishing

Which fishing techniques you can try

Light Tackle

Heavy Tackle

Bottom Fishing

Trolling

Jigging

Deep Sea Fishing

Which amenities are available onboard

Toilet

Fighting Chair

GPS

Fishfinder

Flybridge

Live Bait Well

Outriggers

Ice Box

Radio

What’s included in the trip price

Rods, reels & tackle

Live Bait

Lures

Catch cleaning & filleting

First Mate

20% gratuity is expected and appreciated.

Fishing License

How cancellations work

Free cancellation up to 3 days prior to trip

You can cancel or modify your booking up to 3 days before the trip date, free of charge. If you cancel or modify your booking later, or fail to show up, you'll forfeit 100% of what you've paid.

What the listing policies are

Pickup not included

Transfer to/from departure site is not included in trip rates.

Child Friendly

You Keep Catch

Catch and Release Allowed

How you can pay

Pay online in full

Pay online in full through FishingBooker and save on credit card fees at the dock.

No additional fees.

Book with 10% deposit, pay rest to captain

When the captain confirms your trip, FishingBooker charges your credit card a 10% deposit to guarantee your reservation.

The remaining balance is to be paid directly to the charter operator on or prior to your trip date in one of the following payment methods:

 Cash

 Visa

 Mastercard

 Checks

When paying the remaining balance with a credit card, an additional 3.5% charge will apply.

What’s biting in Port Orange right now

AmberjackAmberjack
Barracuda (Great)Barracuda (Great)
BonitoBonito
Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
Grouper (Black)Grouper (Black)
King Mackerel (Kingfish)King Mackerel (Kingfish)
Marlin (Blue)Marlin (Blue)
SailfishSailfish
Snapper (Red)Snapper (Red)
Tuna (Yellowfin)Tuna (Yellowfin)
WahooWahoo
5 people are looking at this charter.