First Light Exotic Species Charters 

4.9/5 (161 reviews)
 2140 Oglethorpe Road, West Palm Beach, FL 33405, United States

First Light Exotic Species Charters 

West Palm Beach, FL, United States
19 ft
5
4.9/5 (161 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!

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Customer reviews

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Rating

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

Anglers' gallery (539)

What anglers say

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

All reviews (161)

Frequently mentioned
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Showing 15 of 161 reviews
Eric Warren
Eric Warren
Repeat angler
us
Georgia, US
Member since 2019
2 trips
5.0
Verified
New
ASK AND YE SHALL RECEIVE!
6 Hour Guided Trip on June 17, 20262 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
7 trips
5.0
Verified
New
IF You Want a New Boat — Fish With This Guy
5 Hour Guided Trip on June 22, 20262 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
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, 20264 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
7 trips
5.0
Verified
Great Multi-species Trip!
3 Hour Guided Trip - 3:00 PM on December 15, 20251 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
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, 20252 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
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.

Trip availability and prices

Trip Date:
Days:
Group Size:
Select date to see availability
June 2026
SuMoTuWeThFrSa
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Number of days
1
Group Size
2 adults • 0 children
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2 Hour Morning Trip
2 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
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US $300
Entire boat: up to 3 people
3 Hour Guided Trip
3 hour trip multiple starting times (7:30 AM, 3:00 PM)
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US $350
Entire boat: up to 3 people
4 Hour Guided Trip
4 hour trip multiple starting times (7:30 AM, 1:00 PM)
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US $450
Entire boat: up to 3 people
5 Hour Guided Trip
5 hour trip multiple starting times (7:30 AM, 1:00 PM)
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US $500
Entire boat: up to 3 people
6 Hour Guided Trip
6 hour trip multiple starting times (7:30 AM, 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM)
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US $550
Entire boat: up to 3 people
7 Hour Guided Trip
7 hour trip multiple starting times (7:30 AM, 12:00 PM)
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US $650
Entire boat: up to 3 people
8 Hour Guided Trip
8 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
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US $700
Entire boat: up to 3 people
There are 9 people looking at this charter.

Customer reviews

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Rating

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

Anglers' gallery (539)

What anglers say

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

All reviews (161)

Frequently mentioned
Loading...Loading...Loading...Loading...Loading...Loading...Loading...Loading...
Showing 15 of 161 reviews
Eric Warren
Eric Warren
Repeat angler
us
Georgia, US
Member since 2019
2 trips
5.0
Verified
New
ASK AND YE SHALL RECEIVE!
6 Hour Guided Trip on June 17, 20262 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
7 trips
5.0
Verified
New
IF You Want a New Boat — Fish With This Guy
5 Hour Guided Trip on June 22, 20262 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
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, 20264 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
7 trips
5.0
Verified
Great Multi-species Trip!
3 Hour Guided Trip - 3:00 PM on December 15, 20251 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
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, 20252 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
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

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The fish you can target

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What is the boat like?

Boat image
Boat category
Skiffs and flats boats
Capacity
5 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
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