Captain Doug was awesome and very knowledgeable. He was up early at the crack of dawn to be sure we had ample bait and was promptly at the meeting spot. The fishing was a little slow to start and then Captain Doug improvised and after a short boat ride had us on some memories of a life time catching Bonita. Not really edible but fights and runs like no other. The bites were nonstop and when the Bonita slowed then came the Cobia. We landed probably 15 Bonita and hooked into another 10-15. We hooked into 3 large keeper Cobia landed one and the other two were devoured by a couple huge Goliath Groupers right at the boat. Sounds like a awesome trip right? It’s gets better with weather approaching Captain Doug makes a decision to move to get some more table fare. We would finish our remaining 2 hours in the grass flats tearing up Speckled trout, Silver Trout, Jacks, Blue Fish and Spanish Mackerel. Captain Doug was very excited and explained the ins and outs. If this is a slow week then I can only imagine the action on a good week.

Captain Doug Deming met us at the dock with a smile and positive outlook of the day fishing.  We were 3 adults and one 9 year old boy, all with no saltwater fishing experience.  I was very impressed with the attention and instruction Capt. Doug provided and the personal helpfulness to our 9 year old who actually caught the first of many fish for the day.  We all did very well catching multiple varieties of fish, both keepers and other that we released. At the end of our trip Capt Doug prepared and filleted all our fish we caught.  We will book Captain Doug and the “JEWEL OF THE BAY CHARTERS” for our next fishing adventure.

We had a great day with Captain Doug.  While there were six of us on the charter, our primary focus was having the two kids (8 and 12 yrs.) catch some fish.  I had requested in advance that the shark-crazed 8 y.o. get a chance to catch a shark or two, if possible.  Being from Michigan, that would be a big deal!  While our first stop didn’t produce any sharks, it did give us a little time to catch some smaller fish and get acquainted with Captain Doug, the equipment and the process (all saltwater newbies).  After 30 minutes or so of minimal activity, Captain Doug suggested we relocate maybe 100 yds or so to the other side of the sandbar.  After that, it was non-stop for the rest of the day!  No one can really remember how many sharks we caught, but it was A LOT.  Doubles and triples were not uncommon, with everyone on the boat catching several.  We all had so much fun that we didn’t end up leaving that location.  Captain Doug was a great host and was very helpful with the kids and adults alike.  We were all pretty worn out by the end of the trip.  We will definitely use Captain Doug again when we go back to Anna Maria.  We may even let him put us on something other than shark next time… maybe. Great times and a great charter!

So much better than I had anticipated. Wind was a little nasty, so I was worried. It made it slow on the first hole, but after that, it was exploding all day. I wanted a good shark for me and my son. He didn’t quit til we both had a big one. Also caught some huge rays, jack, and brought home a nice mess of trout and Spanish mackerel. Probably my favorite fishing trip ever. We plan to be back.

Captain Doug ensured we had a GREAT TIME! He kept us out fishing longer than scheduled to make sure everyone in the group caught at least one bonnethead. He moved us different locations to keep us bending rods in the best locations. This guy runs a prime charter and I will for sure be booking again in the future. So knowledgeable in equipment, locations, and fish. Super glad I found this charter, truly a jewel!

Thanks for everything Capt. Doug!