Captain Alex is an expert in fly fishing for a variety of species including Bonefish, Permit, Tarpon, Redfish, Snook, and Sharks, within the stunning and abundant flats of the Florida Keys. Fly fishing is his preferred method, and he provides tailored guidance and coaching to help you meet your fishing goals based on your skill level. Additionally, he offers fly casting lessons. However, it’s important to dedicate ample time to practice before your fishing trip or consider hiring a casting coach to make the most of your time on the water.
Fishing in the Keys presents a real challenge—these fish are large, wary, and unpredictable. If you’re not fully prepared, things can quickly go wrong, so it’s essential to be ready. While Captain Alex promises opportunities to catch fish, success ultimately depends on your effort and skill. Preparation and practice are key, so make sure to hone your casting abilities well before your day on the flats.
Captain Alex especially enjoys guiding trips during late winter and spring, coinciding with the Tarpon migration. During this time, fish tend to move into the backcountry, passes, inlets, and ocean-side areas of the Keys. Although springtime offers the greatest concentration of fish, Tarpon can be found year-round at different locations. He describes fly-fishing for Tarpon as incredibly addictive. The thrill of spotting a school cruising over clear shallow waters or watching a solitary fish resting just below the surface is unforgettable. When you land a cast and the Tarpon pursues the fly, engulfs it, then takes off in an explosive, acrobatic run — that’s when you’ll understand the passion.
A competent casting skill level is essential before joining a charter with Captain Alex. If you’re unfamiliar with heavier rods such as 10wt, 11wt, or 12wt, it’s best not to attempt learning during the trip. Even casual practice once or twice a year will likely not be sufficient, and may result in lost fishing time and money. Prioritize developing your double hauling technique, achieving good line speed, refining accuracy, and becoming comfortable with backhand casts. Wind is a common factor in the Keys, often averaging 10 to 15 knots, with stronger winds reaching 15 to 20 knots or more. Since some of the best fishing occurs in windy conditions, mastering casting in the wind is crucial.
There are many resources available, both books and online guides, that cover fly casting and techniques specific to Tarpon fishing. Educating yourself ahead of your trip will enhance your chances of success. Investing in lessons with a qualified casting instructor can also be invaluable. This advice applies equally to other prized flats species like Permit and Bonefish, which are equally challenging and demanding to catch.
One satisfied client shared, “Had a fantastic trip with Alex. He put me on several fish, and I even caught my first Snook, which measured 33 inches! He’s extremely knowledgeable and genuinely passionate about guiding.”
You can cancel your booking without any charges if you do so at least 14 days prior to your scheduled trip, and the amount will be credited back to your account. If you cancel within 14 days of the trip, the deposit paid to the guide will be non-refundable. Canceling on the day of the trip or failing to show up will result in the full trip cost being charged to your credit card.
Includes food and beverages. Fishing license, ice box, rods, reels, and tackle are all provided.
Join Captain Alex for an exhilarating fly fishing adventure in the stunning Florida Keys! Islamorada is renowned worldwide for its exceptional fishing opportunities, boasting highly productive inshore flats that offer excellent year-round fishing for nearly every species found in the hemisphere. It's no surprise that both backcountry and saltwater fly fishing originated here.
During this 4 to 8-hour excursion, Captain Alex will guide you through the beautiful backcountry flats of Islamorada, where you will target prized species such as Bonefish, Permit, Redfish, Snook, and Tarpon using fly fishing techniques.
Fly fishing for these elusive species is especially thrilling due to the challenge of enticing a bite. Precise casting is almost always necessary, and the typically windy Florida Keys conditions increase the challenge. While Captain Alex offers useful guidance tailored to your experience level, this trip is best suited for anglers who regularly practice fly fishing. For those less confident in their casting, Captain Alex also offers a similar trip using traditional rods and tackle, ensuring just as much fun and excitement.
Experienced fly fishers comfortable with their casting skills should review Captain Alex’s "About Your Guide" section to understand the recommended abilities for this outing. He also encourages anglers to familiarize themselves with fly fishing techniques specific to Tarpon, Bonefish, and Permit before the trip. With Captain Alex’s expert instruction, even seasoned anglers can sharpen their skills. It may take some effort, but as he often says, nothing compares to the thrill of landing one of these challenging fish.
Your adventure will take place aboard a 17-foot Maverick HPX-V, designed to accommodate up to two anglers. Powered by a 115 HP Mercury engine, this nimble boat allows you to quietly approach and sight-cast to fish in hard-to-reach locations. Equipped with GPS, a wireless trolling motor, and an ice box to keep your catch fresh, this boat is fully outfitted for a productive day on the water. Captain Alex will also clean any fish you keep, so you can take home a fresh catch ready to enjoy.
All fishing equipment, including rods, reels, tackle, and licenses, are provided. You just need to bring your sunglasses, sunscreen, and any snacks or beverages you desire. Step aboard with Captain Alex and prepare to showcase your fly fishing skills in one of the world’s most iconic fishing destinations!
