Captain Alex is an expert guide for fly fishing Bonefish, Permit, Tarpon, Redfish, Snook, and Sharks amidst the stunning and abundant flats of the Florida Keys. Fly fishing is his preferred method, and he provides tailored guidance and coaching to match your skill level, ensuring you achieve your personal fishing objectives. In addition, he offers fly casting lessons. However, investing ample practice time before your trip or enlisting a casting instructor will maximize your success on the water.

Let’s be honest: the fish in the Keys are not only large and wary but also present a true challenge. Things can often go awry if you’re not fully prepared—anyone claiming otherwise isn’t being truthful. While Captain Alex can put you in prime spots for catching fish, bringing your best casting and fishing skills is crucial. Mastery and execution make all the difference, so dedicate time to practice well ahead of your charter.

His favorite seasons are late winter and spring, when the annual Tarpon migration is in full swing, and fish begin moving through backcountry waters, passes, inlets, and the ocean side of the Keys. Though springtime offers the highest concentrations of fish, Tarpon fishing is possible year-round at various locations. According to Captain Alex, fly fishing for Tarpon is highly addictive. “Once you spot a school gliding over clear flats or see a Tarpon hanging motionless just below the surface, you’ll understand what I mean. When you cast your fly, see the fish following it, then mouth the fly, and explode off with spectacular jumps and runs—hooked for life is an understatement.”

Captain Alex emphasizes the importance of competent casting skills. “If you have never handled a 10wt, 11wt, or 12wt fly rod, please don’t attempt to learn on the docks while fish are swimming nearby. Occasional attempts won’t suffice, and you risk wasting both valuable time and money. It’s essential to practice extensively weeks or months before your trip. You should be proficient in double hauling, generating line speed, and casting accurately. A strong backhand cast is also crucial for improving your chances, especially considering the typical winds in the Keys range from 10 to 15 knots, with 15 to 20 knots or more on windy days.”

Since fishing often improves on windy days, becoming comfortable casting under such conditions is vital. Numerous books and online resources cover fly casting techniques and Tarpon-specific fly fishing strategies, making self-education accessible and beneficial. Investing in lessons with a reputable fly casting instructor is highly recommended and well worth your money. The same level of preparation and skill development applies to other sought-after flats species such as Permit and Bonefish, which can be even more demanding and rewarding.

One satisfied angler shared, “I had an amazing trip with Alex. He guided me to several fish, and I landed my first snook, measuring 33 inches! He’s incredibly knowledgeable and genuinely passionate about what he does.”