Zookeeper Charters 

5.0/5 (12 reviews)
Recent reports
 
State licensed
 Wabasso Road, Vero Beach, FL 32967, United States

Zookeeper Charters 

Up to 3 miles
Vero Beach, FL, United States
26 ft
6
5.0/5 (12 reviews)

If fishing in the Sebastian inlet area is on your bucket list, look no further than Zookeeper Charters.

Amberjack, Black Drum, Cobia, Mahi Mahi, Gag Grouper, King Mackerel (Kingfish), Redfish, Mangrove Snapper, Tarpon, Snook, Red Snapper, Speckled Trout, and more can be found in these waters nearly year round. Sebastian Inlet is one of the most diverse fisheries in Florida!

Depending on the species you're after, you may find yourself spinning, trolling, drifting, jigging, bottom fishing, or maybe something more specialized in this area. Capt. Richard also offers fly fishing, but you may need to bring your own fly gear. For the more adventurous among you, there's spearfishing.

Families making a day of it will be glad to know that kids are welcome aboard! Be sure to mention the amount of kids going for life vests to be on board their size. Customers are encouraged to bring snacks to maintain your energy throughout the trip!

You'll find yourself aboard a 26' Avenger bay boat that can carry up to 8 passengers. It has outriggers, Cobia tower, trolling motor, duel power poles, jack plate, casting platform and the latest and greatest electronics from Garmin! More than everything you need for a productive day on the water.

Rods, reels, and tackle are ready for you, as well as lures.
10 dozen large Live shrimp is a 75$ upgrade depending on the species you want to target and it is recommended. Most trips start with catching live bait is caught with a cast net or sabiki. 

Your fishing license for the day is covered by the charter boat, so all you have to do is look forward to your trip! Keep in mind that you may release some fish due to regulations. If you don't know what to expect, ask the captain.

Don't forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, hats. Bottled water and ice is provided. Alcohol is allowed in moderation, but no hard liquor and only canned and plastic bottled drinks permitted.

Get in touch with Capt. Richard below and start planning your trip today

If fishing in the Sebastian inlet area is on your bucket list, look no further than Zookeeper Charters.

Amberjack, Black Drum, Cobia, Mahi Mahi, Gag Grouper, King Mackerel (Kingfish), Redfish, Mangrove Snapper, Tarpon, Snook, Red Snapper, Speckled Trout, and more can be found in these waters nearly year round. Sebastian Inlet is one of the most diverse fisheries in Florida!

Depending on the species you're after, you may find yourself spinning, trolling, drifting, jigging, bottom fishing, or maybe something more specialized in this area. Capt. Richard also offers fly fishing, but you may need to bring your own fly gear. For the more adventurous among you, there's spearfishing.

Families making a day of it will be glad to know that kids are welcome aboard! Be sure to mention the amount of kids going for life vests to be on board their size. Customers are encouraged to bring snacks to maintain your energy throughout the trip!

You'll find yourself aboard a 26' Avenger bay boat that can carry up to 8 passengers. It has outriggers, Cobia tower, trolling motor, duel power poles, jack plate, casting platform and the latest and greatest electronics from Garmin! More than everything you need for a productive day on the water.

Rods, reels, and tackle are ready for you, as well as lures.
10 dozen large Live shrimp is a 75$ upgrade depending on the species you want to target and it is recommended. Most trips start with catching live bait is caught with a cast net or sabiki. 

Your fishing license for the day is covered by the charter boat, so all you have to do is look forward to your trip! Keep in mind that you may release some fish due to regulations. If you don't know what to expect, ask the captain.

Don't forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, hats. Bottled water and ice is provided. Alcohol is allowed in moderation, but no hard liquor and only canned and plastic bottled drinks permitted.

Get in touch with Capt. Richard below and start planning your trip today

Richard Ladrew
Captain
Richard Ladrew
6 years of experience
ID & credentials verified
responds within an hour

Trip availability and prices

Trip Date:
Group Size:
Select date to see availability
July 2026
SuMoTuWeThFrSa
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Number of days
1
Group Size
2 adults • 0 children
Change
Almost there...
Fishing booker kid special trip
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
3 hour trip multiple starting times (8:00 AM, 9:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM, 3:00 PM)
Jack Crevalle
Bluefish (Tailor)
Snapper (Mangrove)
Redfish
+8
US $450
Entire boat: up to 4 people
Big game Shark fishing
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
4 hour trip multiple starting times (6:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 2:00 PM)
Grouper (Goliath)
Shark (Hammerhead)
Shark (Blacktip)
Shark (Tiger)
+6
US $595
Entire boat: up to 4 people
Half Day Trip – Inshore/Nearshore
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
4 hour trip multiple starting times (6:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 2:00 PM)
Jack Crevalle
King Mackerel (Kingfish)
Snook
Tarpon
+8
US $595
Entire boat: up to 4 people
Night Fishing
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
4 hour trip multiple starting times (6:00 PM, 8:00 PM)
Jack Crevalle
King Mackerel (Kingfish)
Snook
Tarpon
+8
US $600
Entire boat: up to 3 people
Full Day Trip – Inshore/Nearshore
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
8 hour trip multiple starting times (6:00 AM, 10:00 AM)
Cobia
King Mackerel (Kingfish)
Permit
Snook
+8
US $975
Entire boat: up to 4 people
Big game Shark fishing full-day
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
8 hour trip multiple starting times (7:00 AM, 10:00 AM)
Grouper (Goliath)
Shark (Hammerhead)
Shark (Blacktip)
Shark (Tiger)
+6
US $975
Entire boat: up to 4 people
Full Day Trip – Offshore
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
8 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
Amberjack
Cobia
Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
King Mackerel (Kingfish)
+8
US $1,200
Entire boat: up to 4 people
There are 14 people looking at this charter.

Customer reviews

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Rating

5.0
12 reviews
5.0
Boat & equipment
5.0
Captain & crew
5.0
Fishing Experience

Anglers' gallery (19)

All reviews (12)

Frequently mentioned
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Showing 15 of 12 reviews
Charleen Cavoto
Charleen Cavoto
Repeat angler
us
Pennsylvania, US
Member since 2025
3 trips
5.0
Verified
Excellent family fishing experience
Half Day Trip – Inshore/Nearshore on February 13, 20262 adults2 children

We did a four hour fishing trip with Captain Richard out of Sebastian Inlet and let me say it's been our best experience to date! Capt Richard is a native to the area with detail knowledge on the area, fishing, and great with our two little fisherman. We caught so many varieties of fish and it was just straight up fun. He also supplied an abundance of drinks and just made us feel at ease. The boys have been talking about it all weekend with their friends. Highly recommend and can't wait to come back. Thank you!

Reported catch:
Bluefish (Tailor)
Jack Crevalle
King Mackerel (Kingfish)
Richard Ladrew
Response from Captain

it was an absolute pleasure to have you and your beautiful family on board Charleen. Can’t wait to see you guys again next baseball season when your back in town

Isabella Ladrew
Isabella Ladrew
Member since 2026
5.0
Full Day Off-Shore with Captain Richard!
Full Day Trip – Offshore on February 2, 2026

My family and I have been on many charters, but none have stood out as much as our trip with zookeeper. Richard is one of the most knowledgeable and well versed captains we’ve experienced, he took us to untouched and uncrowded spots. We went with all ages and levels, Captain Richard was patient and ready to help at all times. If you have the opportunity to go on a trip with him do it, I know we can’t wait for our next time. Thank you so much!

Reported catch:
Cobia
Mangrove Snapper
Richard Estes
Richard Estes
us
Baltimore, MD, US
Member since 2026
5.0
Verified
New
Fishing with Richard
Half Day Trip – Inshore/Nearshore on July 2, 20262 adults

this captain knows his technique and how to put the group on fish . highly recommend the zookeeper and i will be using this captain for all my fishing in florida

Reported catch:
Mangrove Snapper
Richard Ladrew
Response from Captain

yea rick was super fun hanging out with yall see you next year

Guenther Huber
Guenther Huber
Repeat angler
us
Connecticut, US
Member since 2025
2 trips
5.0
Verified
Best Family Trip!
Half Day Trip – Inshore/Nearshore on June 19, 20264 adults2 children

Captain Richard was awesome, great day with the family, he taught the kids all about fish amd made it fun all around! Caught enough big fish to feed the entire family. would definitely do this with a famiky and kids again!

Reported catch:
Mangrove Snapper
Redfish
Richard Ladrew
Response from Captain

you have a beautiful family was a pleasure

Israel Vasquez
Israel Vasquez
Repeat angler
us
Colorado, US
Member since 2023
2 trips
5.0
Verified
Great trip
Half Day Trip – Inshore/Nearshore on March 11, 20264 adults

Chartered a morning half day with Rich and he was very accommodating and knowledgeable! He took many opportunities to teach me about the fishery and answer any questions I had.

Reported catch:
Mangrove Snapper

FAQs about Zookeeper Charters

Zookeeper Charters offers the following trips to customers:
  • US $450 per group, additional US $75 per person after 4 guests - Fishing booker kid special trip (3 hours)
  • US $450 per group, additional US $75 per person after 4 guests - Fishing booker kid special trip - 1:00 PM (3 hours)
  • US $450 per group, additional US $75 per person after 4 guests - Fishing booker kid special trip - 10:00 AM (3 hours)
  • US $450 per group, additional US $75 per person after 4 guests - Fishing booker kid special trip - 11:00 AM (3 hours)
  • US $450 per group, additional US $75 per person after 4 guests - Fishing booker kid special trip - 12:00 PM (3 hours)
  • US $450 per group, additional US $75 per person after 4 guests - Fishing booker kid special trip - 2:00 PM (3 hours)
  • US $450 per group, additional US $75 per person after 4 guests - Fishing booker kid special trip - 3:00 PM (3 hours)
  • US $450 per group, additional US $75 per person after 4 guests - Fishing booker kid special trip - 9:00 AM (3 hours)
  • US $595 per group, additional US $100 per person after 4 guests - Big game Shark fishing (4 hours)
  • US $595 per group, additional US $100 per person after 4 guests - Big game Shark fishing - 10:00 AM (4 hours)
  • US $595 per group, additional US $100 per person after 4 guests - Big game Shark fishing - 2:00 PM (4 hours)
  • US $595 per group, additional US $100 per person after 4 guests - Half Day Trip – Inshore/Nearshore (4 hours)
  • US $595 per group, additional US $100 per person after 4 guests - Half Day Trip – Inshore/Nearshore - 10:00 AM (4 hours)
  • US $595 per group, additional US $100 per person after 4 guests - Half Day Trip – Inshore/Nearshore - 2:00 PM (4 hours)
  • US $600 per group, additional US $100 per person after 3 guests - Night Fishing (4 hours)
  • US $600 per group, additional US $100 per person after 3 guests - Night Fishing - 8:00 PM (4 hours)
  • US $975 per group, additional US $100 per person after 4 guests - Big game Shark fishing full-day (8 hours)
  • US $975 per group, additional US $100 per person after 4 guests - Big game Shark fishing full-day - 10:00 AM (8 hours)
  • US $975 per group, additional US $100 per person after 4 guests - Full Day Trip – Inshore/Nearshore (8 hours)
  • US $975 per group, additional US $100 per person after 4 guests - Full Day Trip – Inshore/Nearshore - 10:00 AM (8 hours)
  • US $1,200 per group, additional US $200 per person after 4 guests - Full Day Trip – Offshore (8 hours)
When you book a trip with Zookeeper Charters, you can expect the following amenities onboard:
  • GPS 2 garmin gpsmapxsv
  • Fishfinder Side scan, sonar, clear view
  • Flybridge Cobia tower second station
  • Snorkeling equipment
  • Live bait well
  • Outriggers
  • Spearfishing equipment
  • Radar Garmin dome
Trips booked with Zookeeper Charters include:
  • Rods, reels & tackle (High end gear)
  • Live bait (Catch live bait included )
  • Lures (For experienced anglers inshore and nearshore)
  • Catch cleaning & filleting (Included in price )
  • Drinks (Water and ice)
  • Fishing license (All guests do not need a license and covered under my charter.)
Zookeeper Charters offers the following types of fishing:
  • River fishing (No fresh water trips at this time )
  • Inshore fishing
  • Nearshore fishing
  • Offshore fishing (8-40 nautical miles depending on the bite and conditions )
  • Reef fishing
  • Wreck fishing
  • Flats fishing
  • Backcountry fishing
Zookeeper Charters offers the following fishing techniques:
  • Light tackle
  • Heavy tackle
  • Bottom fishing
  • Trolling
  • Spinning
  • Jigging
  • Fly fishing
  • Drift fishing
  • Spearfishing
  • Deep sea fishing
Top targeted fish species with Zookeeper Charters include:
  • Amberjack
  • Black Drum
  • Cobia
  • Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
  • Grouper (Gag)
  • King Mackerel (Kingfish)
  • Redfish
  • Snapper (Mangrove)
  • Snapper (Red)
  • Snook
  • Speckled Trout
  • Tarpon

Your captain

Richard Ladrew
Richard Ladrew
Richard Ladrew

Vero Beach, Florida, United States

4 Fishing Reports
27 Customer reviews
Typical response within an hour
Member since January 2026
Angler's Choice

The Angler's Choice Award is given to listings that consistently deliver a high-quality service and earn great reviews from customers.

Capt. Richard is a licensed and insured U.S. coast guard nearcoastal master captain and runs trips out of Melbourne beach and Vero Beach aboard a fully loaded 26' Avenger Bay boat. Richard is commonly talked about being one of the most humble and kid friendly fishing guides in the area, teaching is a major pasion of his. He was raised just less then a few miles away from the world famous Sebastian inlet. surfing an fishing these waters since 2 years old He is a true local talent. Capt Richard was not always a fishing guide, he was just a well known local fisherman. now he is grateful that he gets to create smiling faces of friends and families. when you book with richard he will give you 110% every time

4 Fishing Reports
27 Customer reviews
Typical response within an hour
Member since January 2026
Angler's Choice

The Angler's Choice Award is given to listings that consistently deliver a high-quality service and earn great reviews from customers.

Capt. Richard is a licensed and insured U.S. coast guard nearcoastal master captain and runs trips out of Melbourne beach and Vero Beach aboard a fully loaded 26' Avenger Bay boat. Richard is commonly talked about being one of the most humble and kid friendly fishing guides in the area, teaching is a major pasion of his. He was raised just less then a few miles away from the world famous Sebastian inlet. surfing an fishing these waters since 2 years old He is a true local talent. Capt Richard was not always a fishing guide, he was just a well known local fisherman. now he is grateful that he gets to create smiling faces of friends and families. when you book with richard he will give you 110% every time

The fish you can target

Amberjack
Amberjack
Black Drum
Black Drum
Cobia
Cobia
Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
Gag Grouper
Gag Grouper
King Mackerel (Kingfish)
King Mackerel (Kingfish)
Redfish
Redfish
Mangrove Snapper
Mangrove Snapper
Red Snapper
Red Snapper
Snook
Snook
Speckled Trout
Speckled Trout
Tarpon
Tarpon
Amberjack
Amberjack
Black Drum
Black Drum
Cobia
Cobia
Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
Gag Grouper
Gag Grouper

What is the boat like?

Boat image
Boat category
Center console boats
Capacity
6 persons
Boat length
26 ft
Year built
2018
Restored in
2025
Boat manufacturer
Avenger
Boat type
Bay boat
Engine model
Suzuki
Powered by
1 x 300HP
Max cruising speed
52 knots

What kind of fishing will you do?

River Fishing
No fresh water trips at this time
Inshore Fishing
Nearshore Fishing
Offshore Fishing
8-40 nautical miles depending on the bite and conditions
Reef Fishing
Wreck Fishing
Flats Fishing
Backcountry Fishing

Which fishing techniques you can try

Light Tackle
Heavy Tackle
Bottom Fishing
Trolling
Spinning
Jigging
Fly Fishing
Drift Fishing
Spearfishing
Deep Sea Fishing

Which amenities are available onboard

GPS
2 garmin gpsmapxsv
Fishfinder
Side scan, sonar, clear view
Flybridge
Cobia tower second station
Snorkeling equipment
Live bait well
Outriggers
Spearfishing equipment
Radar
Garmin dome

What's included in the trip price

Rods, reels & tackle
High end gear
Live bait
Catch live bait included
Lures
For experienced anglers inshore and nearshore
Catch cleaning & filleting
Included in price
Drinks
Water and ice
Fishing license
All guests do not need a license and covered under my charter.

How cancellations work

Free cancellation up to 3 days prior to trip

You can cancel or modify your booking up to 3 days before the trip date, free of charge. If you cancel or modify your booking later, or fail to show up, you'll forfeit 100% of what you've paid.

More details

What the listing policies are

Pickup agreed upon reservation

Transfer to/from departure site may be available and included in price depending on your location and distance from the dock.

Child friendly
Child must be 1 years old and up any child under 12 must have the parent onboard or consent form from a parent.
You keep catch
Catch and release allowed

How you can pay

Pay online in full

Pay online in full through FishingBooker and save on credit card fees at the dock.

No additional fees.

Book with 10% deposit, pay rest to captain

When the captain confirms your trip, FishingBooker charges your credit card a 10% 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

 Visa

 Mastercard

 American Express

 PayPal

 Checks

When paying the remaining balance with a credit card, an additional 3% charge will apply.

What’s biting in Vero Beach right now

AmberjackAmberjack
CobiaCobia
Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
King Mackerel (Kingfish)King Mackerel (Kingfish)
Snapper (Mangrove)Snapper (Mangrove)
SnookSnook
Speckled TroutSpeckled Trout
TarponTarpon

Compare similar fishing charters

Current
Zookeeper Charters
Zookeeper Charters
State licensed
5.0
(12)
26 ft
Group size 1 - 6
1 - 6
Fish 1
Fish 2
+10
4 hour trip • 4 persons
US $595

Recent fishing reports


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