The Captain Experiences Story

Our History

Made by outdoorsmen for outdoorsmen

Captain Experiences was born out of need; it's the product of dozens of years spent in the great outdoors and countless hours spent trying to book fishing and hunting trips.

Back in 2019, our Co-Founder, Jonathan Newar, was working in oil and gas finance in his hometown of Houston. Looking to book a fishing trip for his team, he was reminded how painful it is to find quality fishing guides—from phone tag with captains to outdated charter websites with no price transparency, he knew there had to be a better way…

Fast forward to 2020, when Jonathan teamed up with Co-Founder Attison Barnes to launch Captain Experiences—an online platform that helps people find and book fishing, hunting, and other outdoors trips quickly, easily, and with a process they can trust.

captain experiences founders attison and jonathan holding queen snapper

Our Process

Search It, Book It, Live It

The idea is simple: an online platform making booking outdoor sports guides seamless. Our Damn Good Guides are quality, vetted guides, and we know them all on a first-name basis. You can preview the specific details of a trip from target species or skill level down to whether the boat has a restroom or air conditioning. We even back your trip with a 100% Weather Guarantee for your peace of mind.

Our growing network of Damn Good Guides spans across the globe and each one is handpicked by the Captain team. Booking with Captain is so quick and easy, you won't even have time to think about us...until you want to book your next trip.

dog with duck in south texas

“Fresh air is good for the soul, and stepping away from the office for just one morning or afternoon can be the best few hours of your month. It's our goal to Unlock the Outdoors for everyone by making it easy for you to get out there with our Damn Good Guides.”

Jonathan Newar, Co-founder

Our Passion

Minimizing screens and maximizing life

We're avid outdoorsmen, and we're proud to help support and protect the lands we love. We're not just selling trips—we're empowering people to connect with the outdoors and with each other.

We're a new twist on an age-old pastime, blending the excitement and nostalgia of time spent outdoors with cutting-edge tech to make booking a breeze. We're passionate about the outdoors, and about empowering people to find the perfect-match guide for the trip of a lifetime, every time.

boating a large marlin in hawaii

We Cast a Wide Net

1,000+
Destinations
2,600+
Quality, Vetted Guides
280+
Unique Target Species
349,550
Hours Enjoyed
6,000+
5 Star Reviews

Captain in the News

Captain Experiences in Forbes
Captain Experiences in USA Today
Captain Experiences in Outdoor Life
Captain in Field and Stream
Captain in Texas Monthly

Our Team

jonathan newar photo
Jonathan Newar
Co-Founder & CEO
Bucket list trip: Flats And Backwaters On Artificials
attison barnes photo
Attison Barnes
Co-Founder & CTO
Bucket list trip: Tavernier Backcountry Fishing
trey niedzielski photo
Trey Niedzielski
Senior Customer Success Manager
Bucket list trip: North Texas Noodling Trips
scott stockdale photo
Scott Stockdale
Senior Guide Onboarding Manager
Bucket list trip: Marquesas Atoll Light Tackle

We're not blowing smoke

  • ★★★★★
    Don is awesome! Knowledgeable, efficient, punctual and fun to be around. Awesome getting to hang out with other veterans!

    Scott S. | January 1, 2026

    Trip: Ocean Thrills With Captain Don

  • ★★★★★
    Mike is a knowledgeable guide to find fish. He was extremely good with the kids. Overall a fantastic experience.

    Mike S. | January 1, 2026

    Trip: Reef Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Torre is an incredible captain and guy to spend the day with. Highly recommend him

    Scott A. | January 1, 2026

    Trip: 4-6 Hour Spearfishing/Lobster

  • ★★★★★
    What an amazing day on the water. Mike and Fred used their skills and got us on some fish. We all reeled in some smaller blue streaks to get the trip going. My son caught a nice King Fish off a kite, my little guy got a shark and it was my husband that got a monster hammerhead about 8 1/2 feet long! Mike said this was a trophy and a catch of a lifetime. We had so much excitement and now a hammerhead for our wall with a story that will be told for ages. Thanks to Trey from Captain Experience for helping us to secure a boat and captain- he worked all day during a busy holiday week to find us our trip and he delivered. Mike and Fred were awesome guides and gave us the most unforgettable fishing trip. Thank you!

    Brittany J. | January 1, 2026

    Trip: 4 Hour On The Flag Ship

  • ★★★★★
    We had a blast with Captain Dylan and Ryan. It was windy and pretty rough conditions when we went out so he took us into the mangroves to chase tarpon. Hooked into two and landed one then went out into the rough waters to dive for lobster. Looking forward to chasing tuna with Captain Dylan off the coast next time!

    Mack I. | January 1, 2026

    Trip: Cayman Inshore Fishing Experience

  • ★★★★★
    Absolute blast! Rob was knowledgable, funny, and fully committed to ensuring everyone, including my young kids, had the best time. The boat was perfect. Plenty of room for multiple people to fish comfortably. We will book with Rob again!

    Raleigh W. | December 31, 2025

    Trip: Catching Fish And Having Fun

  • ★★★★★
    Awesome trip with a great guide. Highly recommend going out with Rodney!

    Jessica M. | December 31, 2025

    Trip: A Nearshore Party In Paradise

  • ★★★★★
    Capt Col Hunter was great, he is efficient and laser focused on having a successful trip. He accommodated our needs fantastically, we are not free-divers rather snorkelers trying our hand at lobstering and spear fishing. He found the perfect shallow areas for us to work up on and we had a very successful trip.

    Jason C. | December 31, 2025

    Trip: Key West Lobstering - 30’ Seahunter

  • ★★★★★
    Amazing time! Put us on the trout and had a blast.

    Jonathan A. | December 31, 2025

    Trip: Full Day Fishing - 25’ Dargle

  • ★★★★★
    James and Dillon were great! They welcomed us aboard and handled everything during the morning fishing trip. I highly recommend James and Dillon.

    Jay J. | December 31, 2025

    Trip: Fort Lauderdale Sportfishing

  • ★★★★★
    My grandson and I had a great trip with Scott. He is still bragging to everyone about the 37 fish he caught (my number was lower as he is also pointing out!). Scott was a great captain and host. We came away with some fish to cook and memories for a lifetime!

    Dean P. | December 31, 2025

    Trip: Jupiter Inshore

  • ★★★★★
    Wonderful experience. Jake is super friendly and helped a lot.

    Pin-Syuan H. | December 31, 2025

    Trip: Offshore/ Nearshore Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Had nice day fishing relaxing sunset beautiful,Jesse the best beginning for the kid had fun do it again

    Gerald S. | December 31, 2025

    Trip: Fort Myers Beach Local Captain.

  • ★★★★★
    We had such an incredible experience with Captain Dom! He did an excellent job showing my boys (8 and 10) how to safely handle the guns for our iguana hunt and set them up for a successful trip. The boat ride was a lot of fun too and Dom was very knowledgeable about all the different types of wild life and plants we saw as well. 100% Recommend and would go again!

    Hannah D. | December 31, 2025

    Trip: Iguana Hunting Boynton Beach

  • ★★★★★
    Great experience. Recommend this unique experience

    Ranee R. | December 31, 2025

    Trip: Cape Coral Iguana Hunt

  • ★★★★★
    Bobby was awesome. Lotsa patience for my five year old!

    Zachary W. | December 31, 2025

    Trip: Placida Inshore Experience

  • ★★★★★
    Michael and his crew were excellent! The trip was full of nonstop action. We had 7 people and even my grandma had a blast. Highly recommend Captain Michael and his crew if you want to catch fish and have a good time!

    Tyler M. | December 31, 2025

    Trip: Half Day Inshore

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Todd made things super easy to get set up for our Iguana Hunt. He reached out ahead of time and the communication was excellent. On the day of the hunt, we met Captain Chris, who was extremely courteous and downright fun. A very down to earth guy with a great sense of humor. He went out of his way to make the hunt special for my son and I. We ended up with 7 dead iguanas and an unforgettable experience we'll remember forever! So much fun that I'll be back for another hunt with my other kids in the future. Highly recommend!

    Reuben K. | December 31, 2025

    Trip: Iguana Hunting Veteran Guides

  • ★★★★★
    We had the best time and I honestly lost count of how many fish we caught! My son (5) told me that this was the best day of his life 🥹 We even stopped at a small island so my daughter (2) could take a break to find shells. I can’t wait for our next trip to St Pete so we can go out w captain Joe again. Book the trip! It’s worth every penny and more

    Rebecca B. | December 30, 2025

    Trip: Half Day St Petersburg Inshore Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Capt Don was certainly good at what he does. I had a good time with him.

    Tom G. | December 30, 2025

    Trip: Ocean Thrills With Captain Don

  • ★★★★★
    We had a fun and successful trip with Don! Caught 14 yellowtail snapper and there was never a dull moment. Even our kids (4 and 11) enjoyed it and got in on the action a bit.

    Christine W. | December 30, 2025

    Trip: Ocean Thrills With Captain Don

  • ★★★★★
    Great time, Great trip, great fishing! Would definitely recommend Captain Steve and his crew 🤩

    Tara P. | December 30, 2025

    Trip: Crushing Clearwater Offshore

  • ★★★★★
    He took us to a bunch of different spots and we shot a little bit of everything! He really knows what he’s doing and has the years of experience necessary for a legitimate good charter. He takes lots of photos and he cleaned our catch for us at the end of our charter. We will be back!

    Martha M. | December 30, 2025

    Trip: Family Bowfishing Outing

  • ★★★★★
    Our first time gigging and we all LOVED it! Oldest person was 78 yo and youngest was 10 yrs old. We didn’t see lot of flounders but still had a great time gigging fish and crabs! Capt Leaf and son, Cole, was very knowledgeable and laid back. They made us feel welcomed and communication was timely. We will be back!

    Betty G. | December 30, 2025

    Trip: Rockport Gigging Trip

  • ★★★★★
    From the first handshake at the boat ramp, Riley was friendly, organized, and clearly passionate about guiding. Riley put the boys on fish quickly, adjusted to river conditions, and kept them on quality steelhead all day. Thanks to his experience, river knowledge, my husband and our two sons landed 9 beautiful steelhead and created memories that will last a lifetime. He created a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere with great conversation, helpful tips, and genuine hospitality throughout the trip. If you are searching for a Siletz River steelhead guide, or family-friendly steelhead charter near Lincoln City, you will be thrilled with a guided trip with Riley!!

    D'anne R. | December 30, 2025

    Trip: Winter Steelhead On The Siletz

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great day fishing with captain Todd! He has an immense amount of experience and knowledge about fishing. Very enjoyable and fun trip!

    James S. | December 30, 2025

    Trip: 1/2 Day Fishing Adventure

  • ★★★★★
    Zach was our guide and he put us on fish and iguanas all afternoon. It was a unique experience that my son and I were glad we tried.

    Trevor K. | December 30, 2025

    Trip: Iguana Hunting / Peacock Bass Combo

  • ★★★★★
    Great duck hunt. Got the bird I was after. Definitely will go again.

    James H. | December 30, 2025

    Trip: Self Guided Duck Hunts

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great day on the water with Rob. He is a very skilled captain and had good equipment. His boat was a perfect fishing platform. Clean and neat with plenty of room for fishing and relaxing. Rob put us on fish and kept us on them. I would definitely recommend him for your next adventure in the water.

    Steve D. | December 30, 2025

    Trip: Naples Fishing Adventure

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Steve was excellent! We enjoyed fishing on Blue Magic! He worked hard to put us on some quality fish! We had a top notch experience!

    Lynde U. | December 30, 2025

    Trip: Marathon Key Offshore - 32’ Morgan

  • ★★★★★
    We had a blast on the water with Corbyn. Post frontal conditions and rising muddy water made conditions tough and he kept us on the fish. My son caught his personal best and then 30 minutes and 100 yards later beat it again. We will definitely be back for another trip and can’t recommend them enough for the beginner or seasoned angler.

    Kelly K. | December 30, 2025

    Trip: Lake Casitas Bass Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Andy was great with my son and myself. Had enthusiasm and was willing to explain the thinking behind all of our maneuvers. Made us feel part of the process. Great adventure, book it!

    Tabitha Z. | December 30, 2025

    Trip: 4-8 Hours Inshore Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Our family had an amazing day out on the water catching fish and enjoying the weather. Zak and Adam did an amazing job and would definitely book with them again.

    Shane B. | December 30, 2025

    Trip: Crushing Clearwater Offshore

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Tim was a great host. He knows the back bays like they are his backyard. Took us to many different spots and we were able to get into same great fish. Tim was also great with my 14, 12, and 7 year old kids. Would call Tim again for a trip next time we are in town.

    Benjamin G. | December 29, 2025

    Trip: Red Hot! 🔥 Let's Go Fishing!

  • ★★★★★
    Great time had by all. Everyone caught something even if they were on the small side. Jesse was great with our you ger kids and helped with their demanding requests. We weren't sure what to expect when we made reservations but we were pleased with everything...even we're able to see a momma dolphin and baby. Thank you Captain Jesse for fitting us in and leading us on a great experience and core memory! McCay's from Indiana.

    Karrie M. | December 29, 2025

    Trip: Fort Myers Beach Local Captain.

  • ★★★★★
    Christopher was absolutely wonderful and joy to be on the water with. He was so patient and willing to help us out. This was our first time doing this type of trip and please look him up and BOOK HIM you won't regret it. I will definitely charter him again.

    Mark M. | December 29, 2025

    Trip: Iguana Hunts

  • ★★★★★
    We had an amazing time fishing with our family on Christmas Eve! Captain Walt was incredibly responsive to our families needs and was quick to hunt the biggest and best fish for our adventure! Would definitely do this again!

    Camille R. | December 29, 2025

    Trip: Red Snapper Round Up

  • ★★★★★
    A very knowledgeable captain, especially on foggy days. Has a great system to catching fish. My wife and two kids loved it.

    Jonathan Y. | December 29, 2025

    Trip: Nearshore/offshore

  • ★★★★★
    It was our first backwater fishing in Marco Island and Captain Adventures and Captain Jamie made us an easy and fun experience. I would recommend them to anyone interested in fishing in Marco Island.

    Mark H. | December 29, 2025

    Trip: Afternoon Inshore / Nearshore Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Francisco was an excellent captain. Worked hard to make sure everyone was having fun and catching fish. Nice boat, good equipment and we went 2 for 3 on Mahi and caught & released 2 barracuda’s. Great day & highly recommend!

    Jr O. | December 29, 2025

    Trip: Offshore Fishing Loiza PR

  • ★★★★★
    Domonic did a great job and getting us on a bunch of iguanas. Lots of laughs and good memories were made on that trip. I would do it again in a heartbeat when in that area again.

    Jon P. | December 29, 2025

    Trip: Iguana Hunting Boynton Beach

  • ★★★★★
    Andy was GREAT! He knows where the fish are and made our daughters feel comfortable while fishing. We highly recommend fishing with Andy and we'll definitely be back!

    Scott J. | December 29, 2025

    Trip: St. Petersburg Inshore Slam

  • ★★★★★
    We had a very fun and successful hunt with Charlie, he is very easy going which made for a relaxing stress free trip, especially with having kids on board. Would definitely reach out to Charlie again for future hunts!

    James R. | December 29, 2025

    Trip: Iguana Hunting Insanity FL

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great time fishing with Dave he put us on fish right away. We will definitely book again in the future.

    Josh L. | December 29, 2025

    Trip: Jacksonville - 6 Hr. River & Marsh

  • ★★★★★
    A great day on the water!! Got hit with three sailfish at once!! Amber, Carlos and Dennis were fantastic!. I would come back tomorrow if we could, but we’re definitely coming back soon. Thank you Amberjack crew!!

    Stephen M. | December 29, 2025

    Trip: 5/7 Hrs Offshore Or Inshore Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Alex was simply put the best and we had a wonderful time and caught a lot of fish. Excellent with young fishermen as well.

    John M. | December 28, 2025

    Trip: Destin Bottom Fishing And Trolling!

  • ★★★★★
    Great experience with Capt Brad and Miles. Very knowledgeable, professional, and friendly. We had a great time and caught a ton of fish.

    Michael V. | December 28, 2025

    Trip: Marathon Premier Bottom Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    eating our tuna now reminds me of the awesome trip where we caught it all. Capt. Larry and his first mate made sure we had a full day and all had a great time and caught lots of tuna! We all had a great time. Capt. Larry cleaned up all the fish for us, that was very nice. we brough home lots of tuna!!! and we saw a manatee at the harbor! Thanks!

    Lyle H. | December 28, 2025

    Trip: Hot Pursuit In The Gulf Stream

  • ★★★★★
    We called Charlie the day before our trip and he picked up right away and answered all our questions even though it was Christmas Day. Charlie and his crew were on time at the start of the trip and they were very professional throughout the 5-hour trip. They were experts at spotting iguanas and we definitely wouldn't have captured as many without their "eagle" eyes. With their help we managed to take out a huge iguana that was over five and a half feet long. Charlie and team were also excellent with our two sons and showed a lot of patience with our youngest since he wasn't always behaving at his best. They quickly loaded our guns whenever we ran out of ammo and they offered water to us to make sure we were all well hydrated since it was a warm December day. The trip was a fantastic family experience that we will never forget. Needless to say, we highly recommend Charlie and we won't hesitate to book another hunt with him when we return to South Florida.

    Joseph C. | December 28, 2025

    Trip: Iguana Hunting Insanity FL

  • ★★★★★
    Great charter. Made it really fun for the family. Patient with newbies. Would definitely recommend

    Justin E. | December 28, 2025

    Trip: Nooner

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