How to Get to JB’s Fish Camp by Boat
One of the more frequent questions I get is, “How can I get to JB’s Fish Camp by boat?” JB’s Fish Camp is one of the most iconic Old Florida destination restaurants. Although equally popular among locals, visitors and snowbirds, it still retains its backwater Florida panache.
The History of JB’s Fish Camp
The name JB’s comes from Capt. John A. Bollman III, who bought the property in the late 1970s. At that time, it was little more than a shack that sold beer, tackle and bait to local fishermen. A decade later, it blossomed into a full-fledged restaurant dedicated to preparing fresh seafood with a southern, Old Florida flair.
Best Way to Navigate to JB’s Fish Camp by Boat
The best way to learn how to get to any unknown destination by boat is by hiring a knowledgeable skipper or going with a group that knows the way. If you have a GPS with a chart plotter, you can track your route for the return trip and for future visits. There are several ways to navigate through the mangrove-lined maze of backwater. A fairly easy and enjoyable way to get to JB’s by boat is to start at the New Smyrna Boat Ramp and head south on the Intracoastal Waterway, passing under the South Causeway. Continue past the Smyrna Yacht Club. Directly across from the Edgewater boat ramps on the eastern side is an opening known locally as Dick’s Cut. Passing through Dick’s Cut, you enter unmarked territory where local knowledge prevails.
Landmarks and Navigation Tips for First-Time Travelers
I recommend first-time travelers wait for a boat heading south and follow at a safe distance. A simple rule: If the boat you are following runs aground, stop before you do. If you cannot keep up with the other boat, slow down and wait for another to follow. Some key landmarks are Ski Beach, where families gather to enjoy tow sports, and the Three Sisters, a group of islands where locals gather to party.
Further on is a straight channel that has a treacherous sandbar at its culmination. Locals hug the eastern shore, swing starboard and make a big arc to connect to the next part of the channel. From there, you are almost there, but the channel empties into a large bay with an island straight ahead. Head south, staying in the middle. About 300 yards south of the island, cross over to the easternmost channel, reverse direction and head north. Now, the island is on your port side, and about halfway up the island is JB’s Fish Camp and its docks on the eastern side.
Travel Time and Safety Considerations
The total trip one way takes between 30 minutes and an hour, depending on how fast you travel. When you are on plane, the faster you run, the less your boat draws, allowing it to cross shallower water. The danger is you will do more damage and harm if – or should I say when – you run aground.
Docking and Dining at JB’s Fish Camp
JB’s Fish Camp does not charge for slips, but be sure to get there early because on nice days, they fill up quickly. There is indoor and outdoor seating; check in with the hostess inside before taking a table. There is no service on the docks, but you can order at the outside or inside bar and take your order to your boat. Often, there will be live music on the stage outside. Give yourself enough time to get back to New Smyrna Beach before dark. JB’s Fish Camp is a special place to enjoy Old Florida charm, good food and great service.
Enjoy the trip.
