First Light Exotic Species Charters 

4.9
(167 reviews)
 2140 Oglethorpe Road, West Palm Beach, FL 33405, United States–

First Light Exotic Species Charters 

West Palm Beach, FL, United States
–
19 ft
4
4.9
(167 reviews)

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Join me for the perfect fishing trip, whether you're an experienced angler or a novice looking to learn. Discover the thrill of reeling in some of the world's most sought-after fish with an experienced local fishing guide. Capt TJ, born and raised local would like to share a lifetime worth of experience and knowledge with you that you will be able to take with you anywhere in the world amplifying your future fishing experiences. Once you've booked your adventure, simply arrive at the dock at your chosen time, and I'll be there, fully prepared with all the necessary equipment. Experience the excitement of a day on the water while honing your skills and enjoying nature aboard a very spacious skiff. On board, is an ice chest stocked with ice and drinks and all the essential gear needed for a successful fishing trip. The livewell brims with fresh-caught baitfish, ready to attract the extraordinary species you don't typically find in local waters. Join me for an unforgettable day of fun, where you will be reeling in stunning fish exclusive to South America and other locations around the globe. Secure your adventure today to experience a type of freshwater fishing that can only be found here in south Fl!

Join me for the perfect fishing trip, whether you're an experienced angler or a novice looking to learn. Discover the thrill of reeling in some of the world's most sought-after fish with an experienced local fishing guide. Capt TJ, born and raised local would like to share a lifetime worth of experience and knowledge with you that you will be able to take with you anywhere in the world amplifying your future fishing experiences. Once you've booked your adventure, simply arrive at the dock at your chosen time, and I'll be there, fully prepared with all the necessary equipment. Experience the excitement of a day on the water while honing your skills and enjoying nature aboard a very spacious skiff. On board, is an ice chest stocked with ice and drinks and all the essential gear needed for a successful fishing trip. The livewell brims with fresh-caught baitfish, ready to attract the extraordinary species you don't typically find in local waters. Join me for an unforgettable day of fun, where you will be reeling in stunning fish exclusive to South America and other locations around the globe. Secure your adventure today to experience a type of freshwater fishing that can only be found here in south Fl!

Timothy Qualls
Captain
Timothy Qualls
17 years of experience
ID & credentials verified

Select date to see availability

Trip availability and prices

Trip date:
Group Size:
October 2026
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Group Size
2 adults • 0 children
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2 Hour Morning Trip
Non-refundable
2 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
Bass (Largemouth)
Bass (Peacock)
Crappie
Catfish
+4
US $300
Entire boat: up to 3 people
3 Hour Guided Trip
Non-refundable
3 hour trip multiple starting times (7:30 AM, 3:00 PM)
Bass (Largemouth)
Bass (Peacock)
Alligator Gar
Snakehead
+2
US $350
Entire boat: up to 3 people
4 Hour Guided Trip
Non-refundable
4 hour trip multiple starting times (7:30 AM, 1:00 PM)
Bass (Largemouth)
Bass (Peacock)
Alligator Gar
Snakehead
+2
US $450
Entire boat: up to 3 people
5 Hour Guided Trip
Non-refundable
5 hour trip multiple starting times (7:30 AM, 1:00 PM)
Bass (Largemouth)
Bass (Peacock)
Alligator Gar
Snakehead
+2
US $500
Entire boat: up to 3 people
6 Hour Guided Trip
Non-refundable
6 hour trip multiple starting times (7:30 AM, 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM)
Bass (Largemouth)
Bass (Peacock)
Alligator Gar
Snakehead
+2
US $550
Entire boat: up to 3 people
7 Hour Guided Trip
Non-refundable
7 hour trip multiple starting times (7:30 AM, 12:00 PM)
Bass (Largemouth)
Bass (Peacock)
Alligator Gar
Snakehead
+2
US $650
Entire boat: up to 3 people
8 Hour Guided Trip
Non-refundable
8 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
Bass (Largemouth)
Bass (Peacock)
Alligator Gar
Snakehead
+2
US $700
Entire boat: up to 3 people
There are 3 people looking at this charter.

Customer reviews

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Rating

4.9
167 reviews
4.9
Boat & equipment
5.0
Captain & crew
5.0
Fishing Experience

Anglers' gallery (546)

What anglers say

99%
Great experience
100%
Family friendly
100%
Friendly captain
100%
Good boat
99%
Recommended
100%
Caught fish

Reviews (167)

  • Eric Warren
    Eric Warren
    Repeat angler
    us
    Georgia, US
    Member since 2019
    2 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    ASK AND YE SHALL RECEIVE!

    6 Hour Guided Trip on June 17, 2026 • 2 adults

    We asked for exotics and thats what we got. My wife and I wanted to try somethign different for our 24th wedding anniversary. So we hit Capt. TJ up and told him what we wanted. Let’s just say he delivered. We was catching our targeted species before we left the dock. After a short boat ride we arrived at our first stop and it was on from there. The action slowed as the morning progressed and warmed up, so we made a couple of moves, catching more fish each time we moved. You couldn’t ask for a better Capt. to take care of you than Capt. TJ. HE’S ONE OF THE BEST! I highly recomend!

  • Dale Clark
    Dale Clark
    Repeat angler
    us
    Florida, US
    Member since 2024
    8 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    IF You Want a New Boat — Fish With This Guy

    5 Hour Guided Trip on June 22, 2026 • 2 adults

    I have beeen fishing for over 60 years. When my wife retired, she decided to fish with me. Wanting to give her a first rate experience, I hooked up with Captain “TJ” Qualls. From the onset he put us on fish, and the catching was nonstop. With TJ’s expert guidance, she caught lots of Peacock Bass, Largemouth Bass, Mayan Cichlids, Jaguar Cichlid, Oscar, and Gar. I can’t recall seeing her so excited over any outdoor activity—and now, she wants to do this all the time. Thanks to Captain TJ, I’m getting a new boat! Man, I love this guy.

  • Stacey Church
    Stacey Church
    Repeat angler
    us
    Colorado, US
    Member since 2020
    7 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Great Day!!!

    5 Hour Guided Trip on April 20, 2026 • 4 adults

    We had an incredible guided fishing trip with TJ! From start to finish, everything was top-notch. TJ was knowledgeable, patient, and made sure everyone in our group had a great time. He knew exactly where to go!!! Not only was the fishing amazing, but TJ’s attitude and professionalism really stood out. He made the trip fun, relaxed, and memorable for all of us. Whether you’re experienced or new to fishing, he’ll make sure you have a successful trip. Highly recommend booking with TJ—you won’t be disappointed! 🎣

  • Josh Benson
    Josh Benson
    Repeat angler
    us
    Texas, US
    Member since 2024
    8 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Great Multi-species Trip!

    3 Hour Guided Trip - 3:00 PM on December 15, 2025 • 1 adult

    I had the honor of fishing with Captain Timothy “TJ” Qualls and he did not disappoint. this was my first trip to South Florida and Peacock Bass have been a bucket list fish for me for quite some time. TJ is from the West Palm Beach area and is very knowledgeable about the bodies of water in the area and knows how to put you on fish. His equipment was on point and he worked diligently to ensure that i had a great experience by constantly baiting the hook, netting fish, and quickly addressing any issues of snagging. TJ was quick to move to a new spot if the bite was slow in a particular area. I caught five different species of fish to include Peacock Bass, Clown Knife Fish, Mayan Cichlid, Largemouth Bass, and a catfish. Overall, I had a wonderful time and intend to bring my family back to fish with TJ so they can have a great experience fishing South Florida. Do yourself a favor and book a trip with TJ. You will not be disappointed.

  • Jon Leganski
    Jon Leganski
    Czechia
    Member since 2025
    5.0
    Verified

    Grand Slam In Short Order

    3 Hour Guided Trip on December 9, 2025 • 2 adults

    Our trip happened to coincide with a bit of a cold front and some passing showers, but that didn’t prevent TJ from getting us on fish fast. We pulled a couple decent crappie and small largemouths within minutes of putting lines in. I caught my first ever peacock in the first half hour, and before long my brother was fighting the first of two very nice clown knife fish. Once we’d checked clowns off our list, TJ set out to find some bigger peacocks and we each had the pleasure of landing a good one to wrap up the morning. TJ’s an easy hang. He’ll keep your hooks baited, put you on some fish, and turn into a photographer when you reel ‘em in. Super fun day!

  • Kristen Bettini
    Kristen Bettini
    us
    Connecticut, US
    Member since 2025
    5.0
    Verified

    The best fresh water experience

    4 Hour Guided Trip on October 5, 2025 • 2 adults

    My boyfriend and I came from CT planning to fish Jupiter, FL but the weather was not in our favor. Booked a last minute charter trip with Tj and it was an absolute success. Told Tj upon arrival that we really wanted to catch peacock bass with the possibility of a snakehead. Within 5 minute of being in the first spot, we caught one snakehead and multiple peacock bass. We also hooked into multiple native and nonnative species in one hour of being on the boat. Requested to try for clown night fish, but was unsuccessful at that time which Th made us aware of the potential of not catching one. We then proceeded to a new location that was stacked with a plentiful amount of peacock bass where we were also able to hook into a Mayan cichlid. With our experience fishing behind Tj’s knowledge, I would 100% time and time again recommend his services to anyone looking for a fresh water Florida fishing experience. (Don’t worry about taking photos, Tj is an excellent photographer of your catches)

  • Ross Morland
    Ross Morland
    Repeat angler
    us
    Virginia, US
    Member since 2025
    2 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Bass, bass, and more bass!

    5 Hour Guided Trip on April 13, 2026 • 5 adults

    Captain TJ put us on the Peacock Bass right away, followed by dozens of quality Largemouth. He was super friendly, helpful, and had a positive fun-loving attitude. He even explained a lot about the wildlife and techniques to catch other species. Would highly recommend this trip to anyone wanting to check Florida Peas off their bucket list!

  • Rodney Wishart Iii
    Rodney Wishart Iii
    Repeat angler
    us
    New Jersey, US
    Member since 2021
    5 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Son’s 7th Birthday!

    3 Hour Guided Trip on July 24, 2026 • 3 adults • 2 children

    We had a great time!!! My son was thrilled and so excited to catch fish especially the clown knife. Captain TJ is first rate and first class always willing to help out and share some great stories. Thank you for a great time, my boys can’t stop talking about the next trip!

  • Andrew Gorton
    Andrew Gorton
    Repeat angler
    us
    Florida, US
    Member since 2026
    2 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Non stop action

    4 Hour Guided Trip on April 16, 2026 • 5 adults • 2 children

    Captain TJ was awesome! We came with the goal of getting a Peacock Bass and we caught well over 20 of them along with some nice large mouth and other species. Tj was informative and excellent with my son and nephew. If we’re ever back in south Florida we will no doubt re book.

  • William Callahan
    William Callahan
    us
    Texas, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Perfect

    3 Hour Guided Trip on March 13, 2026 • 2 adults • 1 child

    TJ was great. My son wasn’t sure he would have fun, and was making phone calls to his grandpa and mom before we even got off the boat to tell them how awesome it was. TJ was very patient, explained things very well since my son had never been fishing on a boat. Couldn’t recommend more. 6 stars if we could. We can for Astros spring training, and plan on going next year and we’ll definitely be booking with TJ again.

Rating

4.9
167 reviews
4.9
Boat & equipment
5.0
Captain & crew
5.0
Fishing Experience

Anglers' gallery (546)

What anglers say

99%
Great experience
100%
Family friendly
100%
Friendly captain
100%
Good boat
99%
Recommended
100%
Caught fish

All reviews (167)

Frequently mentioned
Showing 1 – 5 of 167 reviews
Eric Warren
Eric Warren
Repeat angler
us
Georgia, US
Member since 2019
2 trips
5.0
Verified
ASK AND YE SHALL RECEIVE!
6 Hour Guided Trip on June 17, 2026 • 2 adults

We asked for exotics and thats what we got. My wife and I wanted to try somethign different for our 24th wedding anniversary. So we hit Capt. TJ up and told him what we wanted. Let’s just say he delivered. We was catching our targeted species before we left the dock. After a short boat ride we arrived at our first stop and it was on from there. The action slowed as the morning progressed and warmed up, so we made a couple of moves, catching more fish each time we moved. You couldn’t ask for a better Capt. to take care of you than Capt. TJ. HE’S ONE OF THE BEST! I highly recomend!

Timothy Qualls
Response from Captain

your the man eric. thanks so much for the great review. hope to see you guys again sometime

Dale Clark
Dale Clark
Repeat angler
us
Florida, US
Member since 2024
8 trips
5.0
Verified
IF You Want a New Boat — Fish With This Guy
5 Hour Guided Trip on June 22, 2026 • 2 adults

I have beeen fishing for over 60 years. When my wife retired, she decided to fish with me. Wanting to give her a first rate experience, I hooked up with Captain “TJ” Qualls. From the onset he put us on fish, and the catching was nonstop. With TJ’s expert guidance, she caught lots of Peacock Bass, Largemouth Bass, Mayan Cichlids, Jaguar Cichlid, Oscar, and Gar. I can’t recall seeing her so excited over any outdoor activity—and now, she wants to do this all the time. Thanks to Captain TJ, I’m getting a new boat! Man, I love this guy.

Reported catch:
Peacock Bass
Largemouth Bass
Alligator Gar
Timothy Qualls
Response from Captain

such a great review thank you so much for the good word. hope to see you guys again. Go get that boat!

Stacey Church
Stacey Church
Repeat angler
us
Colorado, US
Member since 2020
7 trips
5.0
Verified
Great Day!!!
5 Hour Guided Trip on April 20, 2026 • 4 adults

We had an incredible guided fishing trip with TJ! From start to finish, everything was top-notch. TJ was knowledgeable, patient, and made sure everyone in our group had a great time. He knew exactly where to go!!! Not only was the fishing amazing, but TJ’s attitude and professionalism really stood out. He made the trip fun, relaxed, and memorable for all of us. Whether you’re experienced or new to fishing, he’ll make sure you have a successful trip. Highly recommend booking with TJ—you won’t be disappointed! 🎣

Reported catch:
Largemouth Bass
Clown Knife Fish
Josh Benson
Josh Benson
Repeat angler
us
Texas, US
Member since 2024
8 trips
5.0
Verified
Great Multi-species Trip!
3 Hour Guided Trip - 3:00 PM on December 15, 2025 • 1 adult

I had the honor of fishing with Captain Timothy “TJ” Qualls and he did not disappoint. this was my first trip to South Florida and Peacock Bass have been a bucket list fish for me for quite some time. TJ is from the West Palm Beach area and is very knowledgeable about the bodies of water in the area and knows how to put you on fish. His equipment was on point and he worked diligently to ensure that i had a great experience by constantly baiting the hook, netting fish, and quickly addressing any issues of snagging. TJ was quick to move to a new spot if the bite was slow in a particular area. I caught five different species of fish to include Peacock Bass, Clown Knife Fish, Mayan Cichlid, Largemouth Bass, and a catfish. Overall, I had a wonderful time and intend to bring my family back to fish with TJ so they can have a great experience fishing South Florida. Do yourself a favor and book a trip with TJ. You will not be disappointed.

Reported catch:
Largemouth Bass
Peacock Bass
Clown Knife Fish
Timothy Qualls
Response from Captain

Hey, josh, I really appreciate you booking with me and I really appreciate your lengthy detailed review.It means a lot.Stay safe out there.Hope to see you again sometime

Jon Leganski
Jon Leganski
Czechia
Member since 2025
5.0
Verified
Grand Slam In Short Order
3 Hour Guided Trip on December 9, 2025 • 2 adults

Our trip happened to coincide with a bit of a cold front and some passing showers, but that didn’t prevent TJ from getting us on fish fast. We pulled a couple decent crappie and small largemouths within minutes of putting lines in. I caught my first ever peacock in the first half hour, and before long my brother was fighting the first of two very nice clown knife fish. Once we’d checked clowns off our list, TJ set out to find some bigger peacocks and we each had the pleasure of landing a good one to wrap up the morning. TJ’s an easy hang. He’ll keep your hooks baited, put you on some fish, and turn into a photographer when you reel ‘em in. Super fun day!

Reported catch:
Largemouth Bass
Peacock Bass
Clown Knife Fish
Timothy Qualls
Response from Captain

what an awesome review. you guys were a great charter id be happy to do it again anytime thanks again and tight lines.

FAQs about First Light Exotic Species Charters

First Light Exotic Species Charters offers the following trips to customers:
  • US $300 per group, additional US $50 per person after 3 guests - 2 Hour Morning Trip (2 hours)
  • US $350 per group, additional US $50 per person after 3 guests - 3 Hour Guided Trip (3 hours)
  • US $350 per group, additional US $50 per person after 3 guests - 3 Hour Guided Trip - 3:00 PM (3 hours)
  • US $450 per group, additional US $50 per person after 3 guests - 4 Hour Guided Trip (4 hours)
  • US $450 per group, additional US $50 per person after 3 guests - 4 Hour Guided Trip - 1:00 PM (4 hours)
  • US $500 per group, additional US $50 per person after 3 guests - 5 Hour Guided Trip (5 hours)
  • US $500 per group, additional US $50 per person after 3 guests - 5 Hour Guided Trip - 1:00 PM (5 hours)
  • US $550 per group, additional US $50 per person after 3 guests - 6 Hour Guided Trip (6 hours)
  • US $550 per group, additional US $50 per person after 3 guests - 6 Hour Guided Trip - 1:00 PM (6 hours)
  • US $550 per group, additional US $50 per person after 3 guests - 6 Hour Guided Trip - 12:00 PM (6 hours)
  • US $650 per group, additional US $50 per person after 3 guests - 7 Hour Guided Trip (7 hours)
  • US $650 per group, additional US $50 per person after 3 guests - 7 Hour Guided Trip - 7:30 AM (7 hours)
  • US $700 per group, additional US $50 per person after 3 guests - 8 Hour Guided Trip (8 hours)
When you book a trip with First Light Exotic Species Charters, you can expect the following amenities onboard:
  • GPS
  • Fishfinder
  • Live bait well
  • Wireless trolling motor
  • Ice box
  • Radar
Trips booked with First Light Exotic Species Charters include:
  • Rods, reels & tackle
  • Live bait
  • Lures
  • Catch cleaning & filleting
  • Snacks
  • Drinks
First Light Exotic Species Charters offers the following types of fishing:
  • Lake fishing
  • Flats fishing
  • Backcountry fishing
First Light Exotic Species Charters offers the following fishing techniques:
  • Light tackle
  • Heavy tackle
  • Spinning
  • Fly fishing (Available upon request )
Top targeted fish species with First Light Exotic Species Charters include:
  • Bass (Largemouth)
  • Bass (Peacock)
  • Catfish
  • Clown Knife Fish
  • Crappie
  • Gar (Florida)
  • Hybrid Striped Bass
  • Snakehead

Your captain

Timothy Qualls
Timothy Qualls

West Palm Beach, Florida, United States

6 Fishing Reports
ID & license verified
167 Customer reviews
Typical response within 1 hour
Member since March 2023

My mastery of the sport is used to exceed expectations, providing clients with memories to be cherished for a lifetime. My love for fishing knows no bounds, and I consider it my calling to share that passion with others.

Timothy Qualls
Timothy Qualls
Fully verified
6
reports
167
reviews
2023
member since
~1h
response
My mastery of the sport is used to exceed expectations, providing clients with memories to be cherished for a lifetime. My love for fishing knows no bounds, and I consider it my calling to share that passion with others.

The fish you can target

Largemouth Bass
Largemouth Bass
Peacock Bass
Peacock Bass
Catfish
Catfish
Clown Knife Fish
Clown Knife Fish
Crappie
Crappie
Florida Gar
Florida Gar
Hybrid Striped Bass
Hybrid Striped Bass
Snakehead
Snakehead
Largemouth Bass
Largemouth Bass
Peacock Bass
Peacock Bass
Catfish
Catfish
Clown Knife Fish
Clown Knife Fish
Crappie
Crappie

Real catches by this captain

  • legit!
    Philip B.
    Philip B.
  • Son’s 7th Birthday!
    Rodney W.
    Rodney W.
  • IF You Want a New Boat — Fish With This Guy
    Dale C.
    Dale C.
  • ASK AND YE SHALL RECEIVE!
    Eric W.
    Eric W.
  • June fishing trip
    Brett S.
    Brett S.
  • Non stop action
    Andrew G.
    Andrew G.
  • April fishing trip
    Chase Q.
    Chase Q.
  • TJ is the man!
    Chris G.
    Chris G.
  • Another Great Trip!
    Jacob D.
    Jacob D.
  • Perfect
    William C.
    William C.

What is the boat like?

Boat image
Boat category
Skiffs and flats boats
Capacity
4 persons
Boat length
19 ft
Year built
2000
Restored in
2021
Boat manufacturer
Southern Skimmer
Boat type
Skiff
Engine model
Mercury
Powered by
1 x 90HP
Max cruising speed
35 knots

What kind of fishing will you do?

Lake Fishing
Flats Fishing
Backcountry Fishing

Which fishing techniques you can try

Light Tackle
Heavy Tackle
Spinning
Fly Fishing

Which amenities are available onboard

GPS
Fishfinder
Live bait well
Wireless trolling motor
Ice box
Radar
What's included in the trip price
Rods, reels & tackle
Live bait
Lures
Catch cleaning & filleting
Snacks
Drinks

How cancellations work

Deposit non-refundable

If it is unsafe to travel, you may still cancel free of charge or change the date(s) of your booking.

More details

What the listing policies are

Pickup not included

Transfer to/from departure site is not included in trip rates.

Child friendly
Catch and release allowed

How you can pay

Book with 30% deposit, pay rest to captain

When the captain confirms your trip, FishingBooker charges your credit card a 30% deposit to guarantee your reservation.

The remaining balance is to be paid directly to the charter operator on or prior to your trip date in one of the following payment methods:

 Cash

 Checks

 Bank transfer

What’s biting in West Palm Beach right now

Bass (Largemouth)Bass (Largemouth)
Bass (Peacock)Bass (Peacock)

Compare similar fishing charters

Current
First Light Exotic Species Charters
First Light Exotic Species Charters
4.9
(167)
19 ft
Group size 1 - 4
1 - 4
Fish 1
Fish 2
+6
4 hour trip • 4 persons
US $450