How to Fish from a paddle board in cocoa beach

• Posted on 10 August 2025
• By Ryan (Rygo) Goloversic
• 0

How to Fish from a Paddle Board in Cocoa Beach

SUP Fishing Basics  

Looking to level up your paddleboarding sessions? Combine it with fishing and you’ve got one of the most rewarding ways to explore the waters around Cocoa Beach. SUP fishing here is quiet, low-impact, and surprisingly effective—especially in the calm lagoons and inshore flats just minutes from Epic Boardsports.

Whether you're a paddler curious about fishing or an angler looking to downsize from a boat, this guide will help you get started. We’ll cover:

• What gear you need to fish from a paddle board
  
  
• Which boards are best for casting and balance
  
  
• Local launch zones and the fish species you’ll encounter
  
  
• Safety and stability tips for catching while standing
  
  
• How Epic Boardsports can help you gear up
  
  

Let’s break it down.

Can You Really Fish from a Paddle Board in Cocoa Beach?

Yes, SUP fishing is one of the best ways to access the shallow, fish-rich waters around Cocoa Beach. It’s stealthy, affordable, and lets you reach areas even small boats can’t touch. Plus, you don’t need a trailer, ramp, or motor.

Right here on the Space Coast, the Banana River Lagoon, Turkey Creek, and the backwaters around Merritt Island offer perfect SUP fishing conditions. These are low-current, protected zones loaded with redfish, seatrout, snook, and even the occasional tarpon.

SUP fishing gives you three key advantages:

• Stealth – Paddling silently into the flats means more fish, less spooking.
  
  
• Access – You can launch almost anywhere and slip into water just inches deep.
  
  
• Immersion – Standing eye-level with the water gives you better visibility and feel.
  
  

What Paddle Board Setup Is Best for Fishing in Cocoa Beach?

You want a stable, wide board with gear tie-downs and enough deck space to move. Fishing from a paddle board is all about balance and layout. Look for these features:

• Width: 32" or wider for rock-solid casting stability
  
  
• Deck pad: Full-length traction for grip while standing or shifting
  
  
• Bungees and D-rings: For coolers, tackle bags, and dry storage
  
  
• Inflatable or hard board: Inflatables are easier to transport and surprisingly stiff for casting; hard boards offer more glide
  
  

At Epic Boardsports in Cocoa Beach, we help anglers set up their boards for our local conditions—whether you're sight casting in the mangroves or trolling soft plastics through the flats. We’ve got options for all budgets and can help dial in your layout. Check out all of our options here.

What Gear Do You Need to Start SUP Fishing?

SUP fishing works best when you keep it light, simple, and functional. Here’s what we recommend to get started:

• 1–2 rod setup – Bring what you can manage. Use a rod holder mount or soft cooler with loops.
  
  
• Tackle box or waterproof pouch – Keep it small. Secure it under bungees or in a backpack.
  
  
• Anchor or stakeout pole – To hold your position once you find a bite zone.
  
  
• Paddle clip or leash – Secure your paddle so it doesn’t float off mid-cast.
  
  
• Drybag – Holds phone, keys, and backup gear in case of splash.
  
  
• PFD (life vest) – Florida law requires one onboard. We recommend a compact waist-style.
  
  
• Cooler (optional) – Great for storing drinks, snacks, or fish—doubles as a seat.
  
  

Epic carries SUP-specific accessories, plus advice on rigging that works for Cocoa Beach’s wind, tide, and launch zones.

Where Are the Best SUP Fishing Spots Near Cocoa Beach?

The waters around Cocoa Beach are some of the best flatwater fishing zones in the state. Here are a few favorite SUP-accessible spots just minutes from the shop:

• Banana River Lagoon (Cape Canaveral to Satellite Beach):
  Calm, protected, and loaded with redfish, trout, and black drum. Great for sight fishing. Launch from Kelly Park or Banana River Kayak Launch.
  
  
• Turkey Creek (Palm Bay):
  Shaded river with less wind and surprising fish variety—snook, tarpon, gar. Easy launch from the Sanctuary or Goode Park.
  
  
• Thousand Islands (Cocoa Beach):
  Maze-like mangrove trails with tons of structure. Launch from Ramp Road Park. Bring bug spray, polarized lenses, and patience—it’s worth it.
  
  
• Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge (North side):
  Remote, scenic, and best for experienced paddlers. Redfish and trout in deeper troughs. Check wildlife regulations before you go.
  
  

Want local intel? Epic’s staff paddles and fishes these spots weekly. We’ll point you toward the best tides, wind windows, and launch times.

What Are the Key Tips for Balance and Casting on a Paddle Board?

Fishing while standing takes some practice, but it’s easier than it looks—especially with the right board and body mechanics.

Here’s how to stay balanced and efficient:

• Wide stance = better base – Keep your feet shoulder-width and centered
  
  
• Keep the paddle low – Stow it in a clip or lie it flat across the board
  
  
• Cast from the hips, not just the arms – Stay loose and controlled
  
  
• Seated option – If wind picks up, fish from a low kneel or sit on a cooler
  
  
• Hook set smart – Don’t overreact. Pull clean, not wild. The board will move under you.
  
  

Balance comes quickly when your board is dialed in. Epic can help fit your stance, pick a grip-friendly paddle, and show you tricks we’ve learned on the water.

Is SUP Fishing Good for Beginners or Only Experienced Anglers?

SUP fishing is perfect for beginners. You don’t need a trailer, expensive boat, or years of casting experience. In fact, many paddlers start fishing simply because they’re already exploring these waters.

You’ll learn:

• How to read the flats
  
  
• Where fish hide on incoming/outgoing tide
  
  
• How to move quietly and watch for signs of life (bait, birds, shadows)
  
  

It’s also a great way to teach kids or ease into fishing without heavy gear or crowds. Best of all? You’re on a board. If the fish aren’t biting, it’s still a beautiful paddle around Cocoa Beach.

Can You Rent or Buy a SUP for Fishing in Cocoa Beach?

Yes—Epic Boardsports offers both new boards and fishing-ready accessories, plus rentals for testing setups. Whether you want to try SUP fishing before buying or need help building a full rig, we’ve got you covered.

• Looking to buy? We’ll help match you with a stable, spacious SUP that fits your fishing goals and body size.
  
  
• Just starting out? Try a rental and explore the Banana River or Thousand Islands before committing.
  
  
• Need rigging help? We’ll walk you through bungee layouts, rod mount options, and storage solutions tailored for Cocoa Beach’s waters.
  
  

We live this sport, and we’ll help you get dialed in without overbuying or wasting time.

FAQs: Paddle Board Fishing in Cocoa Beach

Q: Do I need a fishing license for SUP fishing in Florida?
A: Yes—a valid Florida saltwater fishing license is required, even from a paddle board.

Q: Can you catch big fish from a paddle board?
A: Absolutely. Redfish, snook, even tarpon have been landed on SUPs. Just be smart about balance and line management.

Q: How stable is a paddle board for fishing?
A: Very stable—especially wider models (32"+) with good traction and balance. You’ll be surprised how natural it feels after a few outings.

Q: What’s the best time of day to fish from a paddle board?
A: Early morning or evening for calm water, light wind, and active fish. Tide movement is also key—ask us for the best times based on where you're launching.

Q: Do I need an anchor to fish from a paddle board?
A: It helps. A small stakeout pole or 3-lb anchor keeps you on the spot in wind or current.

Ready to Try SUP Fishing in Cocoa Beach?

Fishing from a paddle board lets you explore Cocoa Beach’s lagoons, creeks, and flats in a whole new way. It’s peaceful, effective, and easier than you think—especially with the right setup and a little local knowledge.

Visit Epic Boardsports in Cocoa Beach to get started. Whether you’re renting, buying, or rigging a board you already own, we’ll help you build the SUP fishing setup that fits your goals—and our waters.

Ryan "Rygo" Goloversic