I’ve been fishing before I could walk. My father had me on the boat since I was an infant. Driving the boat at 5. For my 13th birthday he gave me a 13’ Boston Whaler, and by 15 I was on the water by myself. I’m born and raised in South Florida, fishing these waters my entire life every chance I could get.
My favorite targets are the pelagics offshore—wahoo, dolphin (mahi), and kingfish are always at the top of my list. I live for the speed, the power, and the unpredictability they bring. When I’m chasing a different kind of thrill, I’ll set up the kite and fly live baits for sailfish—there’s nothing like watching that bill pop up behind the bait.
When the wind and current align just right, I shift gears and drop down over structure for mutton snapper and grouper—fishing deep, working the bottom, waiting for that unmistakable thump. And when the weather turns rough, I don’t head for home—I shift inshore. You’ll find me tucked into the mangroves or along seawalls, targeting sheepshead, jack crevalle,...
About Your Guide
Derik Rojas
Independent Guide
I’ve been fishing before I could walk. My father had me on the boat since I was an infant. Driving the boat at 5. For my 13th birthday he gave me a 13’ Boston Whaler, and by 15 I was on the water by myself. I’m born and raised in South Florida, fishing these waters my entire life every chance I could get.
My favorite targets are the pelagics offshore—wahoo, dolphin (mahi), and kingfish are always at the top of my list. I live for the speed, the power, and the unpredictability they bring. When I’m chasing a different kind of thrill, I’ll set up the kite and fly live baits for sailfish—there’s nothing like watching that bill pop up behind the bait.
When the wind and current align just right, I shift gears and drop down over structure for mutton snapper and grouper—fishing deep, working the bottom, waiting for that unmistakable thump. And when the weather turns rough, I don’t head for home—I shift inshore. You’ll find me tucked into the mangroves or along seawalls, targeting sheepshead, jack crevalle, and even goliath grouper.
No matter the conditions, I’m fishing. It’s not just a hobby—it’s how I was raised, and it's who I am.
Scroll for more
Rapid Fire Guide Q & A
What’s the biggest fish you’ve caught?
50 pound mahi
If you were cooking for all your friends what would you cook?
Wahoo sushi rolls
Rapid Fire Guide Q & A
What’s the biggest fish you’ve caught?
50 pound mahi
If you were cooking for all your friends what would you cook?
