10/05/2025
Pole Dancer Fishin' Charters
Captain Jeff Patterson
386-451-4992
At Ponce Fish Network, we love spotlighting the Captains and vessels that keep our waters alive with action. This month, we’re proud to feature Pole Dancer Fishin’ Charters, led by longtime local angler Captain Jeff Patterson. Known for his easygoing nature and commitment to giving guests an unforgettable day on the water, Captain Jeff welcomes anglers of all skill levels, from first-timers to seasoned pros, and families with kids are always encouraged to come along. With all rods, reels, tackle, bait, and licenses included, plus the option to have your catch cleaned at the end of the trip, Pole Dancer Fishin’ Charters delivers a hassle-free fishing experience.
The Pole Dancer itself is a 23’ C-Hawk— a boat that mirrors Jeff’s practical approach to fishing. It’s versatile enough to float in just a foot of water, perfect for sliding across the skinny flats and rivers, yet it handles the chop of Ponce Inlet and nearshore grounds with ease. What surprises most people, though, is the space. For a 23-footer, it’s roomy and steady, giving anglers plenty of elbow room to cast, fight fish, and move around without bumping shoulders. From the Halifax and Tomoka Rivers to the edges of the Atlantic just outside the inlet, this vessel is set up to give anglers a comfortable and productive day.
Captain Jeff’s story is woven into the fabric of the Ponce Inlet area itself. Growing up fishing the banks and bridges with his father, the water quickly became more than just a backdrop— it became a calling. That calling turned into a career 18 years ago when he earned his captain’s license, and since then, he has devoted his days to guiding others through the very spots he grew up learning. His knowledge of local waters and seasonal rhythms runs deep, the kind that only comes from years of time spent studying tides, bait movement, and fish behavior firsthand.
Beyond the boat, Jeff’s greatest catch has been his family. He’s a proud father of twin girls who are already well on their way to becoming little fisher-girls themselves, often eager to tag along and help Dad whenever they can. His wife, Rebecca, is right there beside him too— his biggest supporter and the steady hand behind the scenes who keeps everything running smoothly. Whether it’s prepping for trips, handling logistics, or just cheering him on from the dock, Rebecca’s presence is a reminder that every successful charter captain has a strong crew both on and off the water.
More than just a captain, Captain Jeff is a teacher of sorts— sharing not only the how-to of catching fish, but also the why behind each decision on the water. His favorite pursuit, targeting mangrove snapper during their summer spawn, is proof of the passion he still feels each time a fish inhales the bait behind the boat. For him, it’s about more than just filling a cooler— it’s about creating moments worth remembering. Guests leave not just with fish, but with stories to tell, lessons learned, and a deeper connection to the waters of Volusia County. On Pole Dancer Fishin’ Charters, every trip is another chapter in Jeff’s lifelong story of fishing our waters.
Trips aboard Pole Dancer Fishin’ Charters include half- and full-day inshore and nearshore excursions (4, 5, or 6 hours), tailored to give anglers the best opportunities the season has to offer.
