True Florida Expeditions in Punta Gorda, Florida: Captain Experiences

About Your Guide

19 Years of Experience

Before pursuing his passion as a full-time captain and commercial fisherman, Captain Leighton worked in a corporate career for 13 years, only to spend his free time on the water. His family has been in Florida since the early 1880’s and he is a second-generation guide.

The family eventually moved to become part of the community on Gasparilla Island; and at one time owned the historic Journey’s End property on 18th street. To this day, Captain Leighton has family residing in Boca Grande, Florida. Captain Leighton is a member of the Boca Grande Guides Association, and a U.S Merchant Marine; his extensive fishing experience has brought him to live in places from Destin to the exclusive Ocean Reef Club where he lived four years. He currently resides in historic Punta Gorda, Florida with his four children. When Leighton is not on the water, he is an avid reader and writer; he enjoys cooking for his friends and family, and vacationing in the Great Smokey Mountains.

True Florida Expeditions Trips

trip description for Fishing Nirvana in Boca Grande in Punta Gorda

On this light-tackle fishing trip with Captain Leighton, you'll have an unparalleled opportunity to go after famous Florida gamefish, including Redfish, Snook, and Tarpon, in the beautiful backwaters of the Charlotte Harbor. This rich fishery is home to many trophy fish, and there's no better way to catch them than in shallow water on light line! You'll be fishing from the deck of Captain Leighton's 17' Pathfinder skiff—a perfect boat for this type of shallow-water fishing. She's powered by a reliable, 60-HP Yamaha outboard, so you'll get out to the best fishing spots quickly and smoothly. If you're interested in wading, there are plenty of opportunities to step off the boat as well. Captain Leighton will provide everything you need for a great trip, including custom-made jigs, lures and plugs. Light spinning rods, left-handed and right-handed ready, will be provided. The rods will be matched to the angler’s casting abilities to ensure the best opportunity of catching desired species. Therefore anglers can expect an exciting, up close interaction with fighting these game fish. You’ll have sight casting as well as blind casting chances as conditions allow. All you need to bring along is proper clothing, sunscreen (no spray please!), and a pair of polarized lenses to spot fish! Get out there and see what Florida has to offer! Read More

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Punta Gorda