Get ready to fish the legendary waters of Crystal River with Captain Casey—a lifelong outdoorsman whose journey from the Outer Banks to Florida’s Nature Coast is nothing short of inspiring. Originally from Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina, Captain Casey grew up with saltwater in his veins. As a kid, the end of Avalon Fishing Pier wasn’t just his hangout—it was his bus stop. It was here he cut his teeth alongside some of the best anglers on the East Coast, soaking in technique and passion with every cast. By 16, he was already working as a first mate, thriving in the fast-paced world of Outer Banks charter fishing and locking in a dream that would shape the rest of his life.
After earning a degree in Marine Technology from Cape Fear Community College—with hands-on studies taking him all the way to the Bahamas—Casey dove headfirst into full-time fishing, spending seven years on the back deck of the renowned sportfisher Fistful. Chasing everything from Bluefish to giant Blue Marlin, he mastered the cockpit and built lifelong relationships with clients who quickly...
About Your Guide
Casey Russell
Independent Guide
Get ready to fish the legendary waters of Crystal River with Captain Casey—a lifelong outdoorsman whose journey from the Outer Banks to Florida’s Nature Coast is nothing short of inspiring. Originally from Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina, Captain Casey grew up with saltwater in his veins. As a kid, the end of Avalon Fishing Pier wasn’t just his hangout—it was his bus stop. It was here he cut his teeth alongside some of the best anglers on the East Coast, soaking in technique and passion with every cast. By 16, he was already working as a first mate, thriving in the fast-paced world of Outer Banks charter fishing and locking in a dream that would shape the rest of his life.
After earning a degree in Marine Technology from Cape Fear Community College—with hands-on studies taking him all the way to the Bahamas—Casey dove headfirst into full-time fishing, spending seven years on the back deck of the renowned sportfisher Fistful. Chasing everything from Bluefish to giant Blue Marlin, he mastered the cockpit and built lifelong relationships with clients who quickly became more like family. When the time came to chart his own course, he followed his instincts—and the fish—south.
Now based in Crystal River, Florida, Captain Casey has found a new kind of paradise. From Redfish in the mangroves to Speckled Trout and Snook in the shallows—not to mention summer scalloping—he’s dialed into everything this unique fishery has to offer. While he may not be a native Floridian, you'd never know it once you’re on the water with him. His deep knowledge, high energy, and relentless drive to put fish in the boat mean every trip is packed with action.
