Hailing from the very heart of Islamorada, Captain Donnie proudly represents the third generation in a family deeply rooted in fishing guide traditions throughout the Florida Keys. Alongside his father, Captain Ted, he upholds a legacy defined by passion, extensive knowledge, and a genuine love for these iconic waters. Their service spans the entire island chain—from Key Largo to Marathon—as well as the secluded backcountry regions of Everglades National Park, providing remarkable fishing experiences for anglers of all levels.
Donnie's fishing journey began at just three years old when he caught his very first fish, setting the stage for a lifelong pursuit. By the time he was 15, he owned his own boat and was already honing his skills poling the flats, learning from some of the most experienced guides in the Keys. With over ten years as a licensed captain, Donnie possesses an in-depth understanding of Florida Bay, including its tides and the diverse fish species inhabiting its waters.
Whether targeting tarpon, redfish, snook, sharks, trout, or bonefish, Captain Donnie customizes each outing to suit your specific goals. His enthusiasm is equally strong whether he's assisting a youngster in landing their first catch or helping seasoned anglers go after trophy fish. Known for his relaxed demeanor and straightforward guidance, Donnie ensures every trip is enjoyable, low-stress, and full of learning opportunities.
Committed to conservation and environmental stewardship, Donnie’s approach not only creates lasting memories but also fosters a deeper respect for the unique ecosystem of the Keys. As he says, “The greatest reward is seeing the excitement on my clients' faces when they land that unforgettable fish.” Prepare to experience the Florida Keys like a local, guided by a captain who has explored every corner of these remarkable waters.
We had a challenging day focusing on bonefish and permit, but managed to catch a 5 lb bonefish among many bonnet sharks and snapper. Donnie's expertise truly stood out throughout the trip.
You can cancel your booking at no cost if done more than 30 days before your scheduled trip and have the amount credited back to your account. If you cancel less than 30 days before the trip, your deposit will be retained by the guide. Cancellations made on the day of the trip or failing to show up will result in the full trip cost being charged to your payment method.
We will keep our Yeti coolers chilled with ice to store your food and beverages. Please remember to bring non-aerosol sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a baseball-style hat. Also, make sure to bring your fishing license.
Embark on an unforgettable journey into the untouched backcountry waters of Everglades National Park with Captain Donnie, a seasoned third-generation fishing guide raised in Islamorada. Choose between a 4- or 6-hour shallow-water excursion, ideal for anglers of every experience level wanting to immerse themselves in the stunning natural beauty and exceptional fishing opportunities of the Florida Keys. With a maximum of only two anglers per outing, you’ll enjoy a highly personalized fishing experience as you pursue some of the most prized inshore species in these pristine environments.
This trip emphasizes true catch-and-release fishing, utilizing light tackle to target tenacious species such as Snook, Redfish, Mangrove Snapper, Speckled Trout, and juvenile Tarpon. Whether you prefer working artificial lures along the dense mangroves, casting live bait near hidden channels, or witnessing the thrilling explosive strike of a Tarpon on a topwater plug, every cast offers the chance for a memorable catch.
Captain Donnie’s 19-foot skiff is specially designed for navigating these narrow, shallow waters, granting access to secret “honey holes” unreachable by larger vessels. The boat is family-friendly, and to enhance your trip, you can connect your device to the Bluetooth sound system and enjoy your favorite tunes while fishing. Live bait is provided, and in the event of inclement weather, you can rest assured that your deposit will be refunded if the trip must be canceled.
If you’re eager to explore the renowned inshore fishing hotspots of Islamorada and the Everglades, Captain Donnie is ready to lead you on an epic adventure. Reserve your spot today and prepare for a backcountry fishing experience like no other!
