I'm Captain Tom, and the sea has been my lifelong companion. Raised in New Jersey, my enthusiasm for boating took root early and has been honed through many years navigating the waters. For the last decade, I've made the Florida Keys my home, where I enjoy island living while raising my daughter. When I'm not guiding charters, you'll find me indulging in the same activities I share with visitors — fishing, lobstering, snorkeling, or unwinding at the sandbar. I take great pride in revealing the unique charm of the Keys, whether that means helping you land your dream catch, spotting local wildlife, or relaxing on a sunset cruise. No matter if your goal is adventure, calm, or a blend of both, I’m excited to welcome you aboard and offer an authentic local experience in the Florida Keys.
Spending the day with Tom was a true pleasure. He made the experience enjoyable for all five beginners in our group. We caught more than enough for dinner on two nights, thanks to his guidance. Our whole family would happily recommend Tom to anyone looking for a great day on the water.
Tom was fantastic! He managed to help our beginner group catch lobsters, even though it was near the end of the season. After lobstering, we spent some time inshore fishing. Although the fish were slow to bite, Tom worked diligently to find productive spots, and we ended up having a fantastic time. He's personable, easy to talk to, and truly knows his stuff. I would definitely book a trip with Captain Tom again.
If you’re interested in an inshore fishing and lobstering combo, Tom is the captain you want. He came fully prepared and managed to put us on both fish and lobster despite challenging weather conditions. Tom is highly accommodating and genuinely committed to making sure everyone enjoys their time on board.
You can cancel your reservation without any charges if done at least 14 days prior to your scheduled trip, and the amount will be refunded as a credit to your account. If you cancel within the 14-day window before the trip, your deposit will be non-refundable and retained by the guide. Cancellations on the day of the trip or failure to show up will result in a full charge to your card for the trip cost.
All essentials are provided, though we suggest packing sunglasses, sunscreen, clothing suited to the weather, and any additional items you may want for your journey.
Set out from the Sea Center on Big Pine Key for an authentic deep-sea fishing adventure! After approximately a 30-minute boat ride, we'll begin scanning the waters for signs of marine life—each excursion offers a unique experience, adding to the excitement. While this type of fishing demands some patience, the payoff includes some of the Florida Keys' most sought-after catches.
Your trip will involve trolling for mahi, wahoo, tuna, and sailfish. You'll also have opportunities to cast live bait and light tackle specifically for mahi. Depending on the season and your preferences, you can try deep dropping using electric reels or hand-crank methods to target snowy grouper, tilefish, and rosies. On the return journey, if time and conditions permit, we'll make a stop at the reef to fish for snapper and grouper.
We provide ice, water, and coolers to keep your catch fresh. Just remember to bring your own snacks, drinks, and sun protection such as hats, shirts, sunglasses, and sunscreen. This trip is ideal for anglers seeking a genuine offshore experience with a chance to reel in trophy fish!
When booking, feel free to leave a note to customize your starting time or specify your preferred fish species and fishing techniques.
