Captain Matthew's passion for fishing began early in life and has only intensified over time. Through years of dedication and hands-on experience, he steadily advanced in his fishing career until he fulfilled a dream of owning his own charter business. Being a local expert, he possesses an intimate knowledge of the Gulf waters. A proud father of three, Captain Matthew enjoys having his wife and children join him on the boat whenever possible.
His fishing journey started as a youngster along the shores of Choctawhatchee Bay. At just 11 years old, he persuaded his parents to buy him his first boat, a 14-foot John Boat. Although it lacked a trailer and motor, it was the perfect start. With his friends, he crafted a makeshift trailer from pine logs and bicycle tires. Since the boat ramp was about a mile away, the trek wasn’t always easy. Captain Matthew recalls that during that summer, they likely paddled over 100 miles exploring the bay. It was then he knew that fishing would be a lifelong pursuit.
By the age of 14, he secured his first position as a Second Mate on a charter vessel in Destin Harbor. Over the next six years, he climbed the ranks to First Mate and earned his 100 Ton Masters Captain’s License. On his 20th birthday summer, a remarkable moment came when he caught his very first blue marlin — an awe-inspiring catch that ignited his desire to spend every moment on the water chasing these incredible fish.
Captain Matthew’s skills took him to a private yacht, where he spent the following five years traveling around the globe, fishing for blue marlin in destinations such as Costa Rica, Mexico, The Bahamas, St. Thomas, and Bermuda, among others. During this adventurous period, he met his wife and welcomed their first son. Prioritizing family over travel, he returned to Destin to focus on home life.
Back on familiar waters, he applied the expertise gained from his global fishing excursions to excel locally. His tournament earnings in the Gulf of Mexico have exceeded $1.5 million, highlighted by his record-breaking 716-pound blue marlin at the 2009 Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic. He continues to compete passionately, savoring every moment in pursuit of trophy fish.
By 2019, Captain Matthew remained devoted to his fishing dream, now sharing it with his three children — two boys and a girl. With the boat he always envisioned, he loves imparting his enthusiasm and knowledge to both young and adult anglers from around the world. He fondly remembers those early days hauling his boat on a homemade trailer alongside friends, never imagining the incredible path his passion would take him on. To this day, when he’s on the water, he feels the same excitement as that young boy just starting out.
Clients consistently praise the unforgettable experiences he offers, describing the trips as fun, engaging, and seamless. Many express their eagerness to return, confident in recommending Captain Matthew’s guiding services as some of the best fishing adventures they've ever had.
Deposits made for this tour are non-refundable, unless the cancellation is due to weather conditions. If you cancel on the day of the trip or fail to show up, the entire remaining trip price will be charged to your card.
Bring weather-appropriate clothing, snacks, and beverages, along with sun protection. We provide rods, reels, tackle, bait, and fishing licenses.
Step aboard Captain Matthew's sportfisher for an exhilarating close offshore fishing adventure! Departing from the dock, you'll head out through Destin Pass to begin your exciting fishing journey. These trips, lasting between 8 to 10 hours, can take you up to 35 miles offshore, where the thrill of battling a powerful fish on the line is always a possibility!
During the ride out, trolling is a common method used, offering chances to catch a variety of fish. Among the most frequently caught are King Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel, and Bonitas. However, you might also hook into more rare and exciting species such as Wahoos, Dolphins, Blackfin Tunas, Barracudas, and even Sailfish.
As you travel to deeper waters, the crew will be busy preparing everything for your fishing experience. Mates will cut bait, rig rods, and conduct a quick fishing school to teach you the essentials. Whether you're an experienced angler or a beginner, Captain Matthew and his team ensure you receive patient, hands-on guidance so you’re fully prepared once you reach the fishing grounds.
Once at your destination, Captain Matthew will guide you through fishing techniques tailored to target different species, maximizing your chances for a memorable catch.
After the day's fishing wraps up, the trip back includes more trolling opportunities on the return route. Upon docking, the crew will help unload your catch and gear. This is the perfect moment to capture photos of your trophy fish while the mates hang them up for display. Following the photo session, they will clean and bag your fish, ready for you to take home and enjoy.
In addition to having an outstanding captain, the boat is fully equipped with all the fishing gear you could need for a successful day at sea. Your only responsibilities are to bring sun protection, snacks, drinks, and a gratuity for the crew—Captain Matthew and his seasoned team will handle everything else to ensure an unforgettable fishing experience.
The 1984 G&S 48-foot Sportfisher, named Vengeance, is a powerful and well-equipped fishing vessel designed for serious anglers. Powered by twin 1200 hp Fiat engines, this boat combines speed and reliability, ensuring you reach prime fishing spots quickly and comfortably. The spacious flybridge offers excellent visibility, while amenities like air conditioning, GPS, fishfinder, live bait well, fighting chair, outriggers, and an ice box enhance the fishing experience. With on-board restroom facilities, Vengeance guarantees convenience on longer trips. Whether you're chasing big game fish or enjoying a day on the water, this boat promises an exceptional blend of performance and comfort for an unforgettable fishing adventure.
