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trip for his team, he was reminded how painful it is to find quality fishing guides—from phone tag with captains to outdated charter websites with no price transparency, he knew there had to be a better way…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

1,200+
Destinations
2,900+
Quality, Vetted Guides
290+
Unique Target Species
451,041
Hours Enjoyed
8,000+
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 Adventurer 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

  • ★★★★★
    Best fishing trip ever!!

    Spencer M. | August 4, 2026

    Trip: Destin Offshore Thrills

  • ★★★★★
    Dominic was great... the whole experience was very chill and fun!

    John W. | August 3, 2026

    Trip: Iguana Hunting Boynton Beach

  • ★★★★★
    Scott was incredible. We had 3 kids on board and he was very patient and enthusiastic the entire trip. He put us on the fish quickly and we stayed on them. We were catching fish until we had to head back in. I would highly recommend beating the heat with a 6am start time, and would definitely recommend the 6 hour trip to give yourselves the most time on the water and better flexibility for traveling to different spots. If you’re surfing the web and wondering what guide you should go with, then look no further. We will certainly be booking with Scott again.

    Mark A. | August 3, 2026

    Trip: Spend Your Day On The Water With Us

  • ★★★★★
    Dominic was fantastic! We had 2 first time shooters in the boat and he took great care of us and everyone had a phenomenal time!

    Josh R. | August 3, 2026

    Trip: Iguana Hunting Boynton Beach

  • ★★★★★
    Excellent!! Very friendly & took us right to the fish! Very experienced!

    Curtis B. | August 3, 2026

    Trip: 4-6 Hour Trip – Trolling

  • ★★★★★
    Jose is the best. We had a 13 year old and a 17 year old. Jose was great with them and super patient. We did a cast and blast. It was non stop action. Jose is a charming personality that will totally make your trip great. He is always focused on providing the best experience. I can’t wait for the next trip with Jose.

    Darren S. | August 3, 2026

    Trip: Cast And Blast Combo!

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great experience. He was very kind and helpful to us with it being our first time out. He kept putting us on spots to get bites and some cool sights as well. Would definitely book again when we return.

    Kallie M. | August 3, 2026

    Trip: PCB Offshore Fishing Adventure

  • ★★★★★
    Blake was a wonderful instructor and guide. We knew we would probably not catch anything as this was our 1st fly-fishing experience. Blake was patient with us all especially the 9 and 11 year old. We caught 18!!! Including a rare rather large Brown Trout!

    Bondee B. | August 3, 2026

    Trip: Lake Taneycomo Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    This was magical trip that superseded fishing. However, that was spectacular too! Hal knows his FISH!! He's a Panama City native and a multi-generational fishing guide family. HE KNOWS THESE WATERS. Plus he's kind, funny, patient and can talk about pretty much anything you want to talk about. We caught our limit fishing so we boated around a little, a pod of dolphins decided to play in our wake for about 10 minutes. It was magical. Amazing experience with Hal. You should absolutely use him as your guide.

    Roxann T. | August 3, 2026

    Trip: Drift Fishing 4 Hours

  • ★★★★★
    Johnny did an awesome job for us as Captain! He was great with helping my 2 teenage boys, and took us to spots where the fish were hitting. I would highly recommend booking with him to anyone looking out there!

    Jed O. | August 3, 2026

    Trip: Alabama Inshore Magic

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Kenaro was fantastic. We will definitely book with him again. Safe and fun experience. Ended with delicious fish fileted by Captain Kenaro and a great recommendation of a catch and cook restaurant.

    Patricia R. | August 3, 2026

    Trip: Key West Light Tackle Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Fantastic! Our kids had a blast, Robert was great!

    Jennifer S. | August 3, 2026

    Trip: Kids Fishing Trip 12 & Under

  • ★★★★★
    Awesome time!!! The captain ( Gus) was very knowledgeable of the fishing the ocean and all the methods for Big Fish had a great time and I will be back down there to fish with him again in a month and a half. Super Time, can say he went above and beyond

    Brian W. | August 3, 2026

    Trip: South Padre Shark

  • ★★★★★
    Went fishing with Bryan and my two oldest grandkids, 10 and 12. They each caught about eight red fish and each one was 27-29" long. Bryan did a great job and the kids had a great time! I highly recommend Bryan.

    Cole J. | August 3, 2026

    Trip: Freshwater Reds - Weekday Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Elliott did an amazing job putting us on fish! He was patient, knowledgeable, and worked hard throughout the trip to make sure we had a successful day on the water. His dedication and effort really showed. I highly recommend booking Elliott for your next guided fishing trip—you won't be disappointed

    Dedricke D. | August 3, 2026

    Trip: Striped Bass Smash In Abilene TX!!

  • ★★★★★
    My father-in-law and I had a great trip with Chandler as the Captain.

    Mike M. | August 3, 2026

    Trip: PCB Nearshore Fun!

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great time on our fishing trip with Ronald! He was very knowledgeable, friendly, and especially great with my kids. He helped my daughter when she caught a fish but still let her do most of the work, which made the experience even more special for her. He made sure everyone had a fun and memorable time. I highly recommend Ronald to anyone looking for a great fishing guide!

    Aracely C. | August 3, 2026

    Trip: Orange Beach Quick Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip, weather wasn’t the best but we made the best of it, caught a good mess of fish

    Jeffery T. | August 3, 2026

    Trip: Epic Inshore Adventure - 24' Kenner

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Sean was incredible! I booked a diving trip with my 12 year old and Sean went out of his way to make sure my kid had a spectacular fishing experience. We were on fish from the start and were able to use a variety of tackle and fishing gear to target a number of different species. Captain Sean has been guiding in the area for a very long time and is very knowledgeable about what it takes to have a successful fishing trip!

    Rick C. | August 3, 2026

    Trip: Keys Flats And Back Country Trip

  • ★★★★★
    We had a lot of fun and caught a lot of fish. Austin was great!

    Martin B. | August 3, 2026

    Trip: Inshore

  • ★★★★★
    Great time! My son & I enjoyed the charter and will definitely be back!

    Michael D. | August 3, 2026

    Trip: Offshore Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Izzy was great. My son was in on leave from the Marine Corps and was staying in Kingwood. He overslept and couldn’t make it down in time for the 6:30am shove off. I explain to Capt Izzy that it would probably be just me and he said, if my son was still wanting to go, then, we could go out in the bay for a bit and swing by to pick him up when he gets down there. That was a class act for him to make that happen, especially how bummed my son was for not being on time and thinking he wasn’t gonna be able to go.if we were in Louisiana, we would of limited out in about 2 hours. He put us on fish, they were just an inch short. We were able to catch some to take home. I would highly recommend using Capt. ilIzzy and will be using him again

    Rob F. | August 3, 2026

    Trip: 6 Hr Group Bay & Jetty

  • ★★★★★
    Had the best time on our trip with Captain Brad !!!! Highly recommend and will definitely be using him again in the future !!!!

    Lisa C. | August 3, 2026

    Trip: Inshore Fishing In Louisiana

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great time and Mike was very nice to my 10 year old niece who was scared to touch the fish but by the end she was holding them. 10 out of 10 would recommend and if I ever come back to the area I will be out with him again!

    Steven G. | August 3, 2026

    Trip: Inshore / Nearshore Adventures

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great time with Captain Russell bay fishing! We had 6 with me, my wife and 4 boys. Everyone caught a variety of fish! Thanks again for the memories!

    Brandon S. | August 3, 2026

    Trip: Standard 5-hour Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    We had an outstanding trip with JJ Fishing! From the moment we got on the boat, JJ was professional, friendly, and worked hard to make sure everyone had a great time. He knew exactly where the fish were and kept us on them all day. The equipment was in great shape, the boat was clean, and he was patient and helpful with everyone on board. If you’re looking for a knowledgeable guide who truly cares about giving you a successful and enjoyable fishing experience, I highly recommend JJ . We’ll definitely be booking another trip!

    Johnathan C. | August 3, 2026

    Trip: Morning 4hr Back Bay Trip.

  • ★★★★★
    Scott and Will did a great job getting us on some fish. Very good experience.

    Kyle W. | August 3, 2026

    Trip: Light Tackle Bass & Bluefish

  • ★★★★★
    Tough day of fishing, but the crew works to catch fish. Not too much you can do when they aren’t biting, but it is a professional operation.

    Mark G. | August 3, 2026

    Trip: Offshore Blue Marlin FADs Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Steven was very talkative, polite and and knowledgeable.

    Lucas F. | August 3, 2026

    Trip: Beach Fishing: Family-Friendly

  • ★★★★★
    Loved the house best place to watch a launch from. Very clean decorated with really cool space memorblia.Am.planning on going back.

    Michael C. | August 3, 2026

    Trip: 8 Hour South Padre

  • ★★★★★
    Great guy. Easy going, patient, honest, and we caught a lot of fish.

    Agapito M. | August 3, 2026

    Trip: Trolling Trip For BIG Striped Bass

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great time, excellent experience definitely would do again

    Steve R. | August 3, 2026

    Trip: Key Largo Offshore Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Randall was an awesome guide. He did a great job putting us on a bunch of Spanish mackerel. The highlight of the Trip was my nephew rolling in a 40 pound amberjack. Great guide highly recommend.

    Ananth R. | August 3, 2026

    Trip: Alabama Inshore Quick Trips

  • ★★★★★
    Charles made the trip a fantastic experience! He was very good with my boys and made sure we had a great time. He is very knowledgeable about the water and fish. I would recommend him to family and friends. Thank you for a wonderful experience with my boys!

    Joe M. | August 3, 2026

    Trip: Afternoon Bay Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    I had a great solo trip with Larry. He knows lots of good spots to wade, and we caught quite a few decent sized trout and a red. I'd definitely book with him again.

    Richard M. | August 3, 2026

    Trip: Flats And Backwaters On Artificials

  • ★★★★★
    The team did a great job to make our trip comfortable and so fun! Can’t wait to book again!

    Cari M. | August 3, 2026

    Trip: 3 Hour Trip – Inshore

  • ★★★★★
    Bryan was a great guide and very patient with our grandkids. We took our 4,5 and 9 year old grandkids on this trip and they had a blast. Bryan found the spots where the catfish were and we were all able to catch some.

    Brock P. | August 3, 2026

    Trip: Calaveras Lake Weekend Getaway

  • ★★★★★
    It was a good 2 hour trip. We did the kids experience and they enjoyed the heck out of it. Perfect amount of time for the younger one. Caught fish and had a good meal that night. Definitely recommend!

    Josh B. | August 3, 2026

    Trip: 2-Hour Kids Trip - 26’ Pathfinder

  • ★★★★★
    We had a good time with Captain Traver. He is knowledgeable and worked all morning to get us on fish.

    Brian C. | August 3, 2026

    Trip: Epic Redfish Pursuit In The Bay

  • ★★★★★
    Robert made sure we had a great time. Got us on fish that we were interested in catching and we also ended the day with a double up on two reef sharks.

    Russell T. | August 2, 2026

    Trip: Galveston Jetty Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Billy was great. Great communication before we arrived! Put us on fish and had great knowledge of the water! Will definitely book again and would recommend Capt Billy to anyone coming to fish!

    Ryan M. | August 2, 2026

    Trip: Fort Pierce Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Met and exceeded all expectations. Truly an adventure of a lifetime. Thanks for being kid friendly.

    Gregory J. | August 2, 2026

    Trip: Giant Alligator Gar Adventure

  • ★★★★★
    Travis was knowledgeable, attentive to detail, and worked very hard to put me and my friend on some solid trout and redfish. I will fish with him again He also did a wonderful job cleaning and packing our fish!

    Ladd A. | August 2, 2026

    Trip: Inshore/Flats Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great fishing trip with Tom &Tom. Couldn’t have asked for a better day.

    Hallie K. | August 2, 2026

    Trip: Captain's Choice: Half Or Full Day

  • ★★★★★
    Bobby was super nice and very helpful. Had a great time with him. Weather was not on our side but he still tried to make sure we had a great time. Would definitely fish with him again. Also very helpful even if its your time fishing!

    Hannaley H. | August 2, 2026

    Trip: Inshore/Nearshore Special!

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great time. Got to learn great lessons and was very friendly

    Matthew B. | August 2, 2026

    Trip: Biloxi Inshore Light Tackle Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Our trip with Captain Wes was perfect! We highly recommend him for any of your boating needs. Our trip was to scatter my mom’s ashes into the ocean and it could not have been any better. Next time we’ll just hire him for a day time trip or sunset cruise. Thank you so very much for your hospitality and for also allowing our dog Jackson to be your Co-Captain 😊😎

    Sonia D. | August 2, 2026

    Trip: Ash Scattering/Burial At Sea

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Lance was fantastic and our trip exceeded our expectations. He taught us a lot and was super patient with our kids. We got some beautiful fish and a giant stingray! (We released the stingray) It was an awesome trip. Thank you, Lance!

    Kassie C. | August 2, 2026

    Trip: BAY TRIP! Light Tackle Only

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Tom was awesome and we had a great time on the lake. Highly recommend using his charter.

    Kyle H. | August 2, 2026

    Trip: Full Day Walleye Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    My family and I had an amazing time with Jim and his crew. He catered to our needs and we had a fun catching fish. They clean our catch and recommend a great restaurant that cooked the fish for us.

    Mathew E. | August 2, 2026

    Trip: 4-8 Hour Inshore/Jetty Trip

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