Fishing was an absolute obsession for us as kids. We spent every possible moment casting lines and reeling in catches. Whether we were out on a boat, wading through the water, or hopping from pond to pond in a Jon Boat on a lake, our goal was always to chase bass. Capt. Wayne, a lifelong local, has been fishing and boating around Tampa Bay and its nearby waters for over four decades. Growing up in the Tampa Bay area, my father would often take us fishing in our amazing boat—a 213 Chris Craft Scorpion powered by a 200 Black Max Mercury engine. I still dream about having a boat like that today! We explored spots such as Terra Ceia Bay, Miguel Bay, and the Manatee River, targeting Snook, Redfish, and Trout. Additionally, we ventured into Sarasota Bay and around Anna Maria Island, where Sheepshead and Trout were abundant. Offshore trips for Grouper and Snapper were also part of the adventure. That versatile boat gave me plenty of hands-on experience at a young age; I was around 10 or 11 when I first started backing it off the trailer and captaining it over 30 miles offshore—all by myself. I'd then bring it back and secure it on the trailer without trouble.
During my high school years, my father downsized our boat, but that didn’t slow us down—my cousin, friends, and I practically wore it out. We fished every chance we got: day or night, rain or shine. For us, fishing was far better than Christmas morning! In the early 1990s, my cousin Captain Roy Johnson and I had a knack for night fishing Snook; we perfected our technique. We'd head to Longboat Pass with a dip net, catch around 20 Ballahoo, and then sneak into Moore Stone Crab Restaurant after closing time. Fishing has been deeply ingrained in me since childhood. I spent some time working with boat companies but eventually decided to chart my own course. After getting my Captain’s license, I started running fishing charters in 2003 and 2004. Those were fantastic times—we caught countless Snook, Redfish, Trout, Tarpon, Sheepshead, Snapper, and Grouper throughout the bay. Unfortunately, the recession between 2006 and 2008 shifted things in a different direction, and life took me on a new path. Years of hard work followed, and then, when Covid hit, I told my wife it was time to bring back the fun. Now, here we are, fully embracing life on the water once more!
Fishing remains my true passion, and I’m eager to share both the memories of the Tampa Bay I knew as a child and the experiences I enjoy today. We live in an incredible region, and I would love to welcome you aboard an old-school fishing guide for a day of fishing, snorkeling, or even a private island-hopping adventure. It’s guaranteed to be “good times” all around.
Our vessel is a 2021 Hewes 21 Redfisher, an excellent and spacious fishing platform built for comfort and performance. It offers a smooth ride and runs effortlessly on the water. I chose this boat because the build quality is exceptional—I've been on many boats over the years, from flats boats to bay boats and offshore vessels. This one combines performance, fuel efficiency, a comfortable ride, and ample space for fishing or cruising. Powered by a 250 Yamaha engine, it’s equipped with top-notch gear including Garmin electronics, a Garmin Kraken trolling motor, and a Power Pole anchor system. Large live wells provide plenty of room for bait, accompanied by an abundance of storage throughout the boat. Whether we're fishing hard or island hopping, the bimini top, comfortable seating with backrests, and bean bags ensure everyone has a great time. Start locations are flexible, making trips super fun and perfect for families. Our guests always have an amazing time and often come back for more!
You can cancel your reservation without any charges up to three days prior to your trip and get a credit applied to your account. If you cancel within three days of the trip, your deposit will be non-refundable and retained by the guide. Cancellations made on the day of the trip or failing to show up will result in the full trip amount being charged to your payment method.
For your trip, we suggest packing snacks, beverages, sunglasses, sunscreen, clothing suitable for the weather, and any other essentials you may need.
Are you seeking a family-friendly charter where you can enjoy fishing and have a fantastic time out on the water? Whether you want a relaxed day of boating like a local with some fishing, island hopping, snorkeling, and swimming, or prefer a more focused, hardcore fishing trip targeting specific species, Capt. Wayne is ready to accommodate. The choice is yours—it's your day!
Families and kids are always welcome, ensuring everyone has a "Good Times" experience on the water.
From fall through spring, when the weather cools, the schedule is flexible to match the best tides for optimal fishing. We typically meet around 8 AM or later, with convenient departure points at Anna Marina Island, Bradenton, or Palmetto.
Our live bait fishing targets various species depending on conditions. During spring and fall, we often pursue Snook, Redfish, and Trout. On colder winter days, we focus more on structure fishing for Sheepshead and Snapper.
In the summer months, as temperatures rise, we prefer to start earlier—around 6 AM—to avoid the heat. This season emphasizes inshore live bait fishing for Snook, Redfish, and Trout.
Experience fishing like never before on the 2021 Hewes Cadillac Style, a sleek 21-foot bay boat powered by a reliable 250 hp Yamaha engine. Designed with anglers in mind, this boat offers ample space for comfortable movement and gear storage. Equipped with livewells, a Power Pole for shallow-water anchoring, and a trolling motor, it provides excellent maneuverability and fish-friendly features. Although it doesn't have a restroom, the boat’s efficient layout ensures a smooth, enjoyable trip on the water. Whether you’re casting inshore or exploring bays, the Cadillac Style promises a productive and memorable fishing adventure.
