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You're in good hands

Book your trip with confidence — We only work with the best local guides that know where to put you on fish.

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.

About Your Trip

Morning in the backwaters? That’s when the magic happens. The tide’s moving, the fish are hungry, and the world hasn’t had a chance to ruin your day yet. We’ll cruise the mangrove mazes and shallow bays around Marco Island, stalking snook, redfish, sea trout, jack crevalle, and whatever else wants to test your drag. You’ll be casting into tight pockets, skipping baits under branches, and learning real quick why we call this the thinking angler’s game. This is light-tackle action at its finest — perfect for early risers, first-timers, salty veterans, and anyone who likes a peaceful setting with just the occasional burst of chaos when a snook decides your bait looks rude. Bring your hat, your shades, and a sense of humor. I’ll bring the gear, the stories, and the know-how to get you tight on fish before most folks finish breakfast.

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.

Music

You can play your own bluetooth music.

Live Bait

Live bait is included for this trip.

Weather

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

Flexible Cancelation

This trip can be canceled up to 2 days before the trip.

Physicality

This trip requires an average level of physical activity.

Boat Restroom

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

Kid Friendly

This trip is not suited for small children.

Disability Friendly

This trip is not suited for those with disabilities.

Lunch

Please provide your own food / snacks.

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Pricing Matrix

	2 hours	3 hours	4 hours
1 Person	$450.00	$550.00	$650.00
2 People	$450.00	$550.00	$650.00
3 People	$450.00	$550.00	$650.00
4 People (two boats)	$900.00	$1,100.00	$1,300.00
5 People (two boats)	$900.00	$1,100.00	$1,300.00
6 People (two boats)	$900.00	$1,100.00	$1,300.00

Pay 15% of the price as a deposit today, with the balance due on the day of the trip.

About Your Guide

Jamie C.

Independent Guide

Laid-back

Instructional

About Your Guide

Jamie C.

Independent Guide

With more years on the water than most have had breakfasts, Captain Jamie is the go-to guide for anyone looking to hook the big one and have a damn good time doing it. Born and raised chasing snook, tarpon, and redfish through the mangroves of Marco Island, he’s got an encyclopedic knowledge of these waters and a sixth sense for where the fish like to hide.

But Captain Jamie isn’t just about the catch; he’s about the experience. Expect quick wit, salty tales, and a laid-back vibe that turns every charter into a legendary adventure. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned angler, he’ll make sure your trip is packed with laughs, learning, and memories to brag about long after you’re back on dry land.

When he’s not on the water, you can find him perfecting his secret blackened snapper recipe or daydreaming about his next Van Staal reel upgrade.

Ready for a fishing trip that’s as much fun as it is fruitful? Captain Jamie is your man.

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Rapid Fire Guide Q & A

What’s the biggest fish you’ve caught?

Well, that’d be the 180-pound tarpon I wrestled near Caxambas Pass—thing jumped so high I thought it was tryin’ to catch me. Took 45 minutes, three bottles of water, one torn rotator cuff, and a lotta yelling like I was at a Dolphins game. We locked eyes. It blinked. I blinked. I won. Biggest fish? Yes. Biggest ego? Also yes. Still shows up in my dreams talkin’ trash.

If you were cooking for all your friends what would you cook?

Easy. I'd fire up the grill and lay down some fresh-caught snapper, blackened with my secret spice rub (don’t ask, I ain’t tellin’—but it involves paprika and a little voodoo). Side of coconut rice, grilled pineapple, and enough lime to make a margarita nervous. Then I’d toss some stone crab claws on ice, slap a bottle of hot sauce in the middle of the table, and let the feast begin. No plates. Just paper towels, sunburns, and tall tales. Because when you fish like we do on Marco Island, dinner’s not just a meal—it’s a celebration of everything salty, sassy, and just a little bit spicy.

Rapid Fire Guide Q & A

What’s the biggest fish you’ve caught?

If you were cooking for all your friends what would you cook?

What’s your favorite band?

Favorite band? Easy—Reel Big Fish. Not just ‘cause of the name, though that helps. Nothing gets me in the zone like some ska horns and a bassline that slaps harder than a snook on a slack tide. But if I’m filleting after dark or cruisin’ to the backwaters? Gimme some classic Buffett. Jimmy knew the soul of saltwater living better than most folks know their own Wi-Fi password. So yeah—Reel Big Fish for the vibe, Buffett for the lifestyle, and whatever the pelicans are screechin’ when they think I’m filchin’ their lunch.

What’s your favorite movie?

Favorite movie? Jaws, hands down. Yeah, yeah—I know it scared half the country outta the ocean, but to me, it’s a love story… between a man, a boat, and a fish with boundary issues. Quint? That salty old sea dog was basically my spirit animal—minus the whole getting eaten part. Honorable mention? The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou. Because nothing says “master of the sea” like a red beanie and unresolved emotional trauma.

What’s your favorite sports team?

Favorite sports team? Miami Dolphins—because I respect any organization that can go undefeated and still break your heart every season like clockwork. Loyalty builds character… or at least a tolerance for disappointment and bad officiating. Plus, nothing gets the fish biting like yelling at a Sunday game on the boat radio while pretending you didn’t just spill a beer retying your leader. And when it’s not football season? I root for Team Whoever-Brings-the-Snacks.

What’s your drink of choice?

Drink of choice? Ice-cold beer in a koozie that’s seen more sun than a beach towel—preferably something local, like a Naples craft brew with a name like “Snook Bite IPA” or “Redfish Redemption.” But if the fish are really biting and the sun’s high? I’ll switch to a rum punch so strong it could power a trolling motor. Comes in a plastic cup, garnished with regret and a lime. And on special occasions? Water. With electrolytes. I’m not a savage.

What was your last halloween costume?

Last Halloween? I went as a “Lost Bait” — decked out in neon orange and green, tangled up in fishing lures like I’d been dragged through a tackle box explosion. Had a sign that read, “If found, please return to the boat.” Got plenty of weird looks, some laughs, and one kid swore I was a walking fishing disaster. Guess that’s accurate. Best part? Halloween’s the only day I can rock my ridiculous fish hat and not get funny looks—unless the fish are watching, then I’m just confusing the competition.

What do you want for Christmas this year?

What do I want for Christmas this year? Three things: a Van Staal reel—because if you’re gonna fight a tarpon, you need gear tougher than a gator’s attitude; a cooler that actually chills my drinks instead of just pretending; and maybe a fish that bites like it owes me money. Oh, and a week off where the only thing biting is the holiday spirit—not my fingers. But knowing me, I’ll probably be sneak-casting from the porch anyway.

How did you get started guiding?

How did I get started guiding? Well, picture this: a kid with more mosquito bites than sense, a beat-up rod, and a knack for talking to fish like they owed me a favor. I grew up chasing snook and tarpon in the mangroves around Marco Island, learning the currents and secret spots nobody else knew — mostly by sneaking out of the house before dawn and convincing my mom I was “just fishing.” One day, a buddy said, “Why don’t you get paid for this?” Next thing I know, I’m showing folks how to catch dinner instead of just catching excuses. Now? I’m the guy with the weather beaten hat, a boat full of gear, and enough fish tales to fill the Gulf. Guiding’s not just a job—it’s a lifelong love affair with these waters and the folks lucky enough to fish ’em.

What makes you different from other guides?

What makes me different from other guides? Well, for starters, I’ve got more miles on the water than a pelican’s got fish in its belly. I don’t just find fish—I read the water like a weathered old book, know every current, sandbar, and secret hole that’s got a fish with its name on it. But here’s the kicker: I don’t just teach you to catch fish, I make sure you have a damn good time doing it. Expect laughs, tall tales, and a few “did-that-just-happen?” moments. Plus, I’m as patient as a gator waiting for lunch, but just as quick with a joke when you lose a lure or miss a strike. It’s not just a trip, it’s a full-on saltwater experience you’ll be bragging about long after the sunscreen wears off.

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Start Location & Lodging Options

Marco Island, Florida

Areas Fished

About Your Boat

Boat photo for Morning 2,4,or 8 Hour Inshore Trip

Boat Type: Center Console
Boat Manufacturer: Frontier
Year Built: 2016
Boat Length: 18'

About Your Boat

Boat Type: Center Console
Boat Manufacturer: Frontier
Year Built: 2016
Boat Length: 18'
Boat Restroom: No
Engine Manufacturer: Yamaha
Total Horsepower: 115
Number of Engines: 1

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Trip Details & 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.

Music

You can play your own bluetooth music.

Live Bait

Live bait is included for this trip.

Weather

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

Flexible Cancelation

This trip can be canceled up to 2 days before the trip.

Physicality

This trip requires an average level of physical activity.

Boat Restroom

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

Kid Friendly

This trip is not suited for small children.

Disability Friendly

This trip is not suited for those with disabilities.

Lunch

Please provide your own food / snacks.

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

Artificial Lure Fishing
Light Tackle Fishing
Live Bait Fishing
Sight Casting
Topwater Fishing

Everything Else to Know

All gear is included, and we will have cold water on the boat. We recommend bringing sunglasses, sunscreen, weather-appropriate clothing, and anything else you might want on the trip.

You're all set! You don't need to buy a license for this trip.

We use a cashless autopay system. We'll send you a boarding pass, and on the day of the trip, your guide will scan your boarding pass to automatically transfer the remaining balance. The only cash needed is to tip your guide (we recommend 20%).

Cancel for free up to 2 days before the trip and receive credit back to your account. Cancelling within 2 of the trip will forfeit your deposit to the guide. Day-of cancellations and no-shows will be charged the full balance of the trip to their card.

In the event of inclement weather you'll be covered by out 100% Weather Guarantee and will not lose your deposit.

Reviews

5.0

based on 8 reviews

Mark

Verified Review

April 6

Great trip with Captain Thomas! I took my 6 year old son with me and we had a great time.

Mark

Verified Review

April 6

Great trip with Captain Thomas! I took my 6 year old son with me and we had a great time.

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Eric

Verified Review

March 15

Great experience! Captain Jamie was fun, hands on and very knowledgeable! I would recommend this excursion.

Eric

Verified Review

March 15

Great experience! Captain Jamie was fun, hands on and very knowledgeable! I would recommend this excursion.

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Mark

Verified Review

December 26

It was our first backwater fishing in Marco Island and Captain Adventures and Captain Jamie made us an easy and fun experience. I would recommend them to anyone interested in fishing in Marco Island.

Mark

Verified Review

December 26

It was our first backwater fishing in Marco Island and Captain Adventures and Captain Jamie made us an easy and fun experience. I would recommend them to anyone interested in fishing in Marco Island.

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Trip: Afternoon Inshore / Nearshore Trip

Brent

Verified Review

August 15

Had an awesome time! Jamie is an awesome dude. Would not hesitate to book with Jamie again.

Brent

Verified Review

August 15

Had an awesome time! Jamie is an awesome dude. Would not hesitate to book with Jamie again.

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Trip: Afternoon Inshore / Nearshore Trip

Erin

Verified Review

April 3

We did a tour with Captain Thomas. It was exceptional. He was so knowledgeable about everything from the fish to the tides. Will definitely do this charter again.

Erin

Verified Review

April 3

We did a tour with Captain Thomas. It was exceptional. He was so knowledgeable about everything from the fish to the tides. Will definitely do this charter again.

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Matthew

Verified Review

April 1

Had an excellent time. The guide was knowledgeable and super friendly, thoroughly enjoyed our afternoon fishing excursion. Highly recommended.

Matthew

Verified Review

April 1

Had an excellent time. The guide was knowledgeable and super friendly, thoroughly enjoyed our afternoon fishing excursion. Highly recommended.

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Trip: Afternoon Inshore / Nearshore Trip

Mark

Verified Review

March 20

Fit us in on short notice. Had a great time with Captain Thomas. He made everything easy. Would definitely book again when we are back in town.

Mark

Verified Review

March 20

Fit us in on short notice. Had a great time with Captain Thomas. He made everything easy. Would definitely book again when we are back in town.

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Mason

Verified Review

March 19

Fun trip

Mason

Verified Review

March 19

Fun trip

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Trip: Afternoon Inshore / Nearshore Trip

First Time Booking with Us?

Captain Experiences is home to thousands of quality, vetted fishing, hunting, and other outdoor sports guides across the US and beyond. Our mission is to Unlock the Outdoors by making it quick and easy to book the trip of a lifetime every time with our Damn Good Guides.

We vet our guides and only partner with the best of the best. Our guides do their very best to keep you safe, show you a great time, and send you home with a memorable experience shared with family and friends.

Once you've paid your deposit at checkout, we'll send you a QR Code boarding pass. Just show your guide your boarding pass on the day of the trip, they'll scan it, the remaining balance will transfer automatically, and you'll be all set to get out there. Just make sure you bring a cash tip for the guide!

In the event of inclement weather, our guides will check the conditions and make the final call on whether its safe to go on the trip. If they decide the trip needs to be postponed, we'll work closely with you to reschedule or provide a credit for the full deposit, which can be applied to any of our trips in the US and beyond.

Each trip's price is determined by the guide and reflects all associated costs. A significant factor in pricing is often the type of boat and the corresponding fuel expenses. Additional costs may include leases, marina or slip fees, and the expenses involved in providing and maintaining the necessary gear for your trip.

After booking your trip, we'll connect you directly with your guide to discuss additional details. In the meantime, our team is here to answer any questions via email, text, or phone.