About Your Guide

Profile photo of Captain Experiences guide Zach Stells

Zach Stells

Independent Guide
Talkative
Laid-back
Instructional
Beginner Oriented
Comfortable
Quality
A Georgia native, Zach was born with a passion for the outdoors. He started fishing at a young age, as his father was a tournament bass fisherman in the southeast. Most of his childhood was spent learning about the art of fishing.

Zach spends most of his days searching the water of the Lower Keys scouting a variety of fish and lobster. Many evenings you can find him tying flies for upcoming trips or organizing hook and lurer boxes.

Zach has guided all over the U.S. including Alaska, Wyoming, North Carolina, and Georgia giving him knowledge and diversity to adapt to situations and thrive from the experiences. He has attended fishing schools including, Western Rivers Guide School and Florida Keys Outfitters Saltwater Fly Fishing School. Zach has participated as a guide in events to raise money and awareness with Project Healing Waters, Casting for a Cure,Trout Unlimited and Ducks Unlimited as well as the Carter Center Foundation. Education and countless hours on the water have given him the experience and expertise that help build his charter business.

By understanding the...

About Your Guide

Profile photo of Captain Experiences guide Zach Stells

Zach Stells

Independent Guide
A Georgia native, Zach was born with a passion for the outdoors. He started fishing at a young age, as his father was a tournament bass fisherman in the southeast. Most of his childhood was spent learning about the art of fishing.

Zach spends most of his days searching the water of the Lower Keys scouting a variety of fish and lobster. Many evenings you can find him tying flies for upcoming trips or organizing hook and lurer boxes.

Zach has guided all over the U.S. including Alaska, Wyoming, North Carolina, and Georgia giving him knowledge and diversity to adapt to situations and thrive from the experiences. He has attended fishing schools including, Western Rivers Guide School and Florida Keys Outfitters Saltwater Fly Fishing School. Zach has participated as a guide in events to raise money and awareness with Project Healing Waters, Casting for a Cure,Trout Unlimited and Ducks Unlimited as well as the Carter Center Foundation. Education and countless hours on the water have given him the experience and expertise that help build his charter business.

By understanding the
needs of the angler and by setting achievable goals Zach can help you become a better all around fisherman or fisherwomen. Whether your goal is to improve your cast or catch one of the many elusive fish of the Lower Keys, he will help you check it off your bucket list!

Fishing is not something he does, fishing is who he is, its a way of life, its a gift that has been given to him to share with others and he loves every minute of it!
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Rapid Fire Guide Q & A

What’s the biggest fish you’ve caught?
Tarpon
If you were cooking for all your friends what would you cook?
Pan seared fish filet
What’s your favorite band?
Allman Brothers
What’s your favorite sports team?
GA Bulldogs
What’s your drink of choice?
Water
What was your last halloween costume?
None
What do you want for Christmas this year?
Winning lottery ticket
How did you get started guiding?
Chasing a passion
What makes you different from other guides?
I take a very calm approach

Rapid Fire Guide Q & A

What’s the biggest fish you’ve caught?
Tarpon
If you were cooking for all your friends what would you cook?
Pan seared fish filet
What’s your favorite band?
Allman Brothers
What’s your favorite sports team?
GA Bulldogs
What’s your drink of choice?
Water
What was your last halloween costume?
None
What do you want for Christmas this year?
Winning lottery ticket
How did you get started guiding?
Chasing a passion
What makes you different from other guides?
I take a very calm approach
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Big Pine Key Fly Or Light Tackle

100% (1) 1 - 2 People 4 - 8 Hours From $750
Tarpon Fishing in Big Pine Key, Florida
Tarpon Fishing in Big Pine Key, Florida
4hr
4hr
4hr
Barracuda Fishing in Big Pine Key, Florida
4hr
4hr
Permit Fishing in Big Pine Key, Florida
Permit Fishing in Big Pine Key, Florida
Redfish Fishing in Big Pine Key, Florida
Bonefish Fishing in Big Pine Key, Florida
Tarpon Fishing in Big Pine Key, Florida
4hr
Redfish Fishing in Big Pine Key, Florida
Redfish Fishing in Big Pine Key, Florida
Redfish Fishing in Big Pine Key, Florida

About Your Trip

Water Type

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats

Skill Levels

Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

Weather

You won’t lose your deposit if the trip is canceled due to weather

Explore the stunning waters of the Lower Florida Keys with Captain Zach and target iconic inshore species like Tarpon, Bonefish, Permit, and more. Whether you prefer fly fishing or conventional tackle, Captain Zach provides all the gear, bait, and expert instruction you’ll need for an unforgettable experience. With over 20 years of guiding experience and a lifelong passion for fishing, Zach knows these waters like the back of his hand and will take you to...

About Your Trip

Explore the stunning waters of the Lower Florida Keys with Captain Zach and target iconic inshore species like Tarpon, Bonefish, Permit, and more. Whether you prefer fly fishing or conventional tackle, Captain Zach provides all the gear, bait, and expert instruction you’ll need for an unforgettable experience. With over 20 years of guiding experience and a lifelong passion for fishing, Zach knows these waters like the back of his hand and will take you to the most productive spots for the species you’re after.

The crystal-clear flats and mangrove-lined shores of the Keys are a sight angler’s paradise, where every cast is a chance to connect with a trophy fish. Captain Zach’s patient, tailored approach ensures a rewarding day on the water, whether you’re honing your fly cast, chasing your first Tarpon, or pursuing the elusive Permit. Raised in a family of anglers and seasoned by guiding across the U.S., Zach’s passion for fishing and teaching shines through every trip.

Fishing here is more than just catching—it’s about the experience. The vibrant seascape teems with life, from rolling Tarpon to wading spoonbills, creating a truly immersive adventure. Zach supplies everything you need for a successful day, so all you need is sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, snacks, and a sense of adventure.

With Captain Zach at the helm, your time on the water will be filled with excitement, learning, and memories to last a lifetime. Let’s make your Keys fishing dreams a reality!
Amenities

Water Type

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats

Skill Levels

Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

Tackle

All rods, reels, and tackle are included.

Fish Cleaning

This guide will clean your catch for you.

Beer

Feel free to enjoy responsibly, but please no glass.

Live Bait

Live bait is included for this trip.

Location

This guide can be flexible with the departure location.

Weather

You won’t lose your deposit if the trip is canceled due to weather

Kid Friendly

This trip can cater to small children.

Boat Restroom

No, this boat does not have a bathroom on board.

Disability Friendly

This trip is not suited for those with disabilities.

Flexible Cancelation

The deposit for this trip is non-refundable.

Lunch

Please provide your own food / snacks.

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About Your Boat

Boat photo for Big Pine Key Fly Or Light Tackle
Boat Type
Skiff
Boat Manufacturer
Chittum
Year Built
2023
Boat Length
18'

About Your Boat

Boat Type
Skiff
Boat Manufacturer
Chittum
Year Built
2023
Boat Length
18'
Boat Restroom
No
Engine Manufacturer
Mercury
Total Horsepower
115
Number of Engines
1
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Recent Reviews of Boneafide Charters

5.0
based on 1 review

Taylor

Verified Review

Great trip with Zach. He really knows the waters around the Keys! We had a blast and would highly recommend!

Taylor

Verified Review

Great trip with Zach. He really knows the waters around the Keys! We had a blast and would highly recommend!
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Potential Target Species

Color-coded seasonality below is based on .
View Full Species Seasonality Chart »
  • Get it while it's HOT!
  • This species is in play.
  • You might get lucky (as long as things are in-season).
  • Couldn't tell ya! (no data)

Techniques

Types of Fishing

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