Captain Kevin Grainger 

I grew up in Florida from the age of five. My time growing up in East Central Florida was spent fishing the Indian River Lagoon. At 13, I got my first boat. The freedom of having a boat at a young age quickly led me to a love for Tarpon, Redfish, Snook, Sea trout, and anything else willing to play. Looking back on those days and reliving the experience and time on the water is very special to me. It didn't take long for the fly rod to peak my interest. Once the rod was in my hands I discovered new areas of the Lagoon with beautiful clear flats, perfect for sight fishing with flies. During my senior year of high school I started working and learning to tie flies at Harry Goodes Outfitters in Melbourne. After graduation, I moved to Southwest Florida to attend Florida Gulf Coast University. In 2021, I started working at 239 Flies in Bonita Springs, where I still work today when I'm not on the water. It's no coincidence that the decision to attend Florida Gulf Coast University had a great deal to do with the world class fishing in the surrounding areas. The Everglades and Ten Thousand islands quickly became my favorite. The remoteness of the area brought a new calling to my life and big tarpon on fly buried a hook deep into my heart. There's nothing like idling out of the marina with a client who is about to experience these legendary waters. It doesn't matter if it's their first time or 50th trip. The feeling I get takes me back to the feeling I had when I was 13 in my first boat. Granted, I've spent many years learning the fishery but the excitement I get motoring out and stepping up to the poling platform has never changed. In November of 2023, I was honored to receive the inaugural Captains for Clean Water Next Generation Stewardship Award. I am a staunch supporter of conservation and ensuring our resources are made better for future generations. This work must continue for the sustainability of our fisheries.