Captain Johnny Riggs 

5.0
(51 reviews)
 3192 Matecumbe Key Road, Punta Gorda, FL 33955, United States–

Captain Johnny Riggs 

Punta Gorda, FL, United States
–
24 ft
4
5.0
(51 reviews)

Get ready to experience some of the most productive inshore and nearshore fishing possible with Captain Johnny Riggs! Located opposite Charlotte Harbor, you'll set off from Punta Gorda – a prime location to fish the backwaters and skinny waters of the Peace River or Boca Grande. Come discover this incredible fishery for yourself!

Capt. Johnny was born and raised in this area, so it's fair to say he knows a thing or two about casting a line here. He'll customize your angling adventure to perfectly suit your needs. All ages are welcome aboard for a wonderful day on the water fishing for Sharks, Snook, and everything in between.

You'll be casting off from a 24' Proline center console, powered by a 150 HP Yamaha motor. She can comfortably accommodate up to 4 guests. Restored in 2016, this boat features all the modern amenities you'll need for a successful day on the water. This includes Hummingbird electronics, a shallow water anchoring system, and a trolling motor for sneaking up on your target fish!

However you want to spend your day in the Punta Gorda area, Capt. Johnny has a trip to suit you. Choose between collecting shells on the local islands and fishing for species such as Redfish, Snook, Snappers, Sharks, and the huge Goliath Grouper.

When in season, you'll also get the chance for an exciting face-off with the 'Silver King' (Tarpon). Capt. Jonny uses a variety of techniques on his trips, such as trolling, jigging, drift fishing, bottom fishing, and even bowfishing. If there's a fish you'd like to target or a technique you'd like to try, just let him know!

In his own words, this is the 'best place to fish anywhere,' and Capt. Johnny will provide all the gear you need, as well as your fishing license. When you return to shore, he'll even clean your keeper fish for you to take home.

With so many options, there's definitely a trip for you, and you can be safe in the knowledge that you'll be well looked after. Come cast off with Captain Johnny Riggs!

Get ready to experience some of the most productive inshore and nearshore fishing possible with Captain Johnny Riggs! Located opposite Charlotte Harbor, you'll set off from Punta Gorda – a prime location to fish the backwaters and skinny waters of the Peace River or Boca Grande. Come discover this incredible fishery for yourself!

Capt. Johnny was born and raised in this area, so it's fair to say he knows a thing or two about casting a line here. He'll customize your angling adventure to perfectly suit your needs. All ages are welcome aboard for a wonderful day on the water fishing for Sharks, Snook, and everything in between.

You'll be casting off from a 24' Proline center console, powered by a 150 HP Yamaha motor. She can comfortably accommodate up to 4 guests. Restored in 2016, this boat features all the modern amenities you'll need for a successful day on the water. This includes Hummingbird electronics, a shallow water anchoring system, and a trolling motor for sneaking up on your target fish!

However you want to spend your day in the Punta Gorda area, Capt. Johnny has a trip to suit you. Choose between collecting shells on the local islands and fishing for species such as Redfish, Snook, Snappers, Sharks, and the huge Goliath Grouper.

When in season, you'll also get the chance for an exciting face-off with the 'Silver King' (Tarpon). Capt. Jonny uses a variety of techniques on his trips, such as trolling, jigging, drift fishing, bottom fishing, and even bowfishing. If there's a fish you'd like to target or a technique you'd like to try, just let him know!

In his own words, this is the 'best place to fish anywhere,' and Capt. Johnny will provide all the gear you need, as well as your fishing license. When you return to shore, he'll even clean your keeper fish for you to take home.

With so many options, there's definitely a trip for you, and you can be safe in the knowledge that you'll be well looked after. Come cast off with Captain Johnny Riggs!

Johnny Riggs
Captain
Johnny Riggs

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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4 Hour FlatsTrip WEEKDAY (Mon-Fri)
FREE Cancellation 7 days notice
4 hour trip starts at 8:00 AM
Seasonal trip
(Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri)
US $600
Entire boat: up to 3 people
4 Hour FlatsTrip WEEKEND
FREE Cancellation 7 days notice
4 hour trip starts at 8:00 AM
Seasonal trip
(Sat, Sun)
US $650
Entire boat: up to 3 people
6 Flats WEEKDAY (Mon-Fri)
FREE Cancellation 7 days notice
6 hour trip starts at 8:00 AM
Seasonal trip
(Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri)
US $800
Entire boat: up to 3 people
6 Hour Flats WEEKEND
FREE Cancellation 7 days notice
6 hour trip starts at 8:00 AM
Seasonal trip
(Sat, Sun)
US $850
Entire boat: up to 3 people
6 Hour Trip –Shark, Tarpon, Goliath
FREE Cancellation 7 days notice
6 hour trip starts at 8:00 AM
Seasonal trip
Apr 1 - Aug 31
US $1,000
Entire boat: 2 people
There are 2 people looking at this charter.

Customer reviews

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Rating

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

Anglers' gallery (31)

What anglers say

100%
Great experience
98%
Family friendly
100%
Friendly captain
100%
Good boat
100%
Recommended
92%
Caught fish

Reviews (51)

  • Devon Riederer
    Devon Riederer
    us
    Wisconsin, US
    Member since 2021
    5.0
    Verified

    Half day trip

    6 Flats WEEKDAY (Mon-Fri) on April 12, 2021 • 4 adults

    Booked the trip and was greeted by a man who looked like a cross between Mathew McConaughey and a greek god. The legend of Capt Johnny Riggs is real. He set us up on fish and we were rippin lips in no time. If u want a captain that knows his shit and can shoot a steel target at 300yrd with his pistol this is the only charter u need. What u cant cast for shit? Capt Johnny Riggs will drop ur bait wherever u need with a flick of the wrist. Deff the only fishing charter il ever need in Punta Gorda

  • Mary Van Craenenbroeck
    Mary Van Craenenbroeck
    Repeat angler
    us
    Illinois, US
    Member since 2020
    2 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    A un-forgettable day with Captain Johnny Riggs!

    4 Hour FlatsTrip WEEKDAY (Mon-Fri) on March 13, 2020 • 4 adults

    This by far was the most exciting fishing charter we have ever been on. Can you believe we had 3 people at once catching something. My husband was so excited and said he definitely caught more fish in one day then he ever had. Captain Johnny Riggs did whatever he could to make our trip. Exciting, Entertaining, informative and fun. We would recommend Captain Johnny Riggs 100 times over. You won’t be disappointed. We will definitely sail with him again!

  • Ronald Cruz
    Ronald Cruz
    ca
    Ontario, Canada
    Member since 2019
    5.0
    Verified

    Trip of a lifetime!!!

    4 Hour FlatsTrip WEEKDAY (Mon-Fri) on July 5, 2019 • 3 adults

    I recently just came back on vacation from Florida, where I had the luxury of having to fish with the best Captain in the Gulf coast!! From the first cast of the day, Capt. Johnny put us on the fish! I caught over 7 different species of fish and what seemed like over 30 fish all day... I lost track after 20..lol. He works hard to ensure you have the best trip possible and on top of that, he’s just a nice guy! We had laughs, shared stories and above all just kept on catching fish!!! At our last spot of the day, my wife called while we just hooked one on and I cut her off and said, “gotta go! Bye!” Knowing full well of the poor choice I had made and the inevitable consequence...but the thrill of having a Snook on the line was worth the upcoming argument!!! This guy is the real deal! Don’t miss your chance to fish with this Punta Gorda raised fishing guide! I will be back guaranteed!!!

  • Dave Campbell
    Dave Campbell
    Repeat angler
    us
    Member since 2019
    3 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Afternoon trip with Captain Johnny

    6 Flats WEEKDAY (Mon-Fri) on March 7, 2019 • 2 adults

    I would like to thank Captain Johnny for a great day on the water...Communication was excellent, we talked several times on the conditions and what we should expect out on the water....Captain Johnny was great with Mom, they really hit it off and allowed me to keep fishing...I would highly recommend trusting Captain Johnny with any kind of fishing trip you may have in mind...Thanks again Captain Johnny you will be hearing from us in the future. Thanks. The Campbells

  • Ryan Bunton
    Ryan Bunton
    us
    Illinois, US
    Member since 2021
    5.0
    Verified

    4 hour trip

    Special 4 hours trip for Ryan Bunton on May 6, 2021 • 2 adults

    Great experience! Would highly recommend!

  • J.J. Castle
    J.J. Castle
    Member since 2017
    5.0

    Fishing with Johnny

    4 Hour FlatsTrip WEEKDAY (Mon-Fri) on January 5, 2017

    I've fished many charters over the years and I can honestly say this was the best by far. Nothing even close. Our group consisted of myself, my son and his friend, both teenage boys. Captain Johnny got us right on the fish, and explained everything as we went along. Catching amazing fish is always great, but the fact that from the minute we got in the boat it was like we were a group of friends fishing was unbelievable. Captain Johnny made sure we had the best bait, tackle and instruction you could ask for. We've already booked another trip next month.

  • Carrie Quam
    Carrie Quam
    us
    Minnesota, US
    Member since 2017
    5.0
    Verified

    First ocean charter/ catch

    4 Hour FlatsTrip WEEKDAY (Mon-Fri) on April 5, 2017 • 2 adults

    Amazing overall exeriemce! We learned a lot , enjoyed the conversation and Johnny was definitely entertaining . He did everything he could to get us on fish . The coldfront made it for tough fishing , but we still managed to catch some snook . And s requested he brought us out Tarim fishing in the waves , no luck , but we were lucky in our choice to book with Johnny Riggs . We will definitely be coming back and booking with him again ! What a great captain and dude !

  • Matt Thompson
    Matt Thompson
    Member since 2016
    5.0

    Captain Johnny Riggs

    8 Hour Trip – Flats / Bay on October 15, 2016

    Had an awesome fishing trip with Captain Johnny Riggs. This was the first and only fishing trip where I've actually caught what was promised by the captain. We snagged a large Goliath grouper and more snook than we could count. No lie it was well over 60 and we just got tired of keeping track. Johnny knows what he's doing and knows the area well. I highly recommend his services and I will be back myself for sure. It's

  • Gregory
    Gregory
    Member since 2017
    5.0

    6 hour trip with capt. Riggs

    6 Flats WEEKDAY (Mon-Fri) on June 13, 2017

    We had a great trip and capt. Riggs was great with my kids. We found plenty of fish and he also taught the kids a few new tricks. We fish in a lot of places, with a lot of guides, capt. Riggs was someone we want to fish with again.

  • Kirsten Hall
    Kirsten Hall
    ca
    Ontario, Canada
    Member since 2017
    5.0
    Verified

    3hr trip with captain Riggs

    3 Hour Fishing Trip on February 28, 2017 • 2 adults

    Awesome experience, made sure my boyfriend and I caught tons of fish. Took us to a few locations that were great! Super friendly, helpful, and funny guy! We are going to come back next year for sure. I'd recommend this charter to anyone!!

Rating

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

Anglers' gallery (31)

What anglers say

100%
Great experience
98%
Family friendly
100%
Friendly captain
100%
Good boat
100%
Recommended
92%
Caught fish

All reviews (51)

Frequently mentioned
Showing 1 – 5 of 51 reviews
JIM ROCOLE
JIM ROCOLE
Repeat angler
us
Wisconsin, US
Member since 2023
2 trips
5.0
Verified
excellent trip
4 Hour FlatsTrip WEEKDAY (Mon-Fri) on March 31, 2026 • 3 adults • 1 child

great personally, patience and great fishing knowledge caught snook

Ronald Bewersdorff
Ronald Bewersdorff
Repeat angler
us
Michigan, US
Member since 2026
2 trips
4.7
Verified
Fishing with Johnny
6 Hour Flats WEEKEND on March 14, 2026 • 3 adults

William Cummings
William Cummings
us
Ohio, US
Member since 2026
4.0
Verified
Fishing with Johnny
4 Hour FlatsTrip WEEKDAY (Mon-Fri) on February 20, 2026 • 3 adults

Barton Weisenfluh
Barton Weisenfluh
Repeat angler
us
Maine, US
Member since 2023
3 trips
5.0
Verified
Fishing with Johnny
6 Flats WEEKDAY (Mon-Fri) on February 20, 2023 • 2 adults

Ben Elandt
Ben Elandt
us
Wisconsin, US
Member since 2025
5.0
Verified
Fishing without Women
6 Flats WEEKDAY (Mon-Fri) on April 22, 2025 • 1 adult

Johnny’s boat and Equipment were top notch, very knowledgeable. Caught 1st fish 5 minutes into fishing.Really nice guy.. worked hard to find fish. And wasn’t stuck going shopping with the girls

FAQs about Captain Johnny Riggs

Captain Johnny Riggs offers the following trips to customers:
  • US $600 per group, additional US $100 per person after 3 guests - 4 Hour FlatsTrip WEEKDAY (Mon-Fri) (4 hours)
  • US $650 per group, additional US $100 per person after 3 guests - 4 Hour FlatsTrip WEEKEND (4 hours)
  • US $800 per group, additional US $100 per person after 3 guests - 6 Flats WEEKDAY (Mon-Fri) (6 hours)
  • US $850 per group, additional US $100 per person after 3 guests - 6 Hour Flats WEEKEND (6 hours)
  • US $1,000 per group, additional US $100 per person after 2 guests - 6 Hour Trip –Shark, Tarpon, Goliath (6 hours)
When you book a trip with Captain Johnny Riggs, you can expect the following amenities onboard:
  • GPS Hummingbird
  • Fishfinder Hummingbird
  • Live bait well
  • Wireless trolling motor
  • Ice box
  • Radar Hummingbird
Trips booked with Captain Johnny Riggs include:
  • Rods, reels & tackle
  • Live bait (Fishing for bait is included in the price)
  • Lures
  • Catch cleaning & filleting (Cleaning is included)
  • Drinks (Bottled water and ice provided )
  • Fishing license (All licenses and gear provided)
Captain Johnny Riggs offers the following types of fishing:
  • Inshore fishing
  • Nearshore fishing (Up to 9 miles offshore)
  • Reef fishing
  • Wreck fishing
  • Flats fishing
  • Backcountry fishing
Captain Johnny Riggs offers the following fishing techniques:
  • Light tackle
  • Heavy tackle
  • Bottom fishing
  • Trolling
  • Jigging
  • Fly fishing (Bring your own equipment)
  • Drift fishing
  • Bowfishing
Top targeted fish species with Captain Johnny Riggs include:
  • Cobia
  • Grouper (Gag)
  • Grouper (Goliath)
  • Grouper (Red)
  • Permit
  • Redfish
  • Shark (Bull)
  • Shark (Hammerhead)
  • Snapper (Mangrove)
  • Snook
  • Speckled Trout
  • Tarpon

Your captain

Johnny Riggs
Johnny Riggs
Punta Gorda, Florida, United States
51 Customer reviews
Typical response within 2 hours
Member since October 2016
Captain Johnny Riggs is a military veteran with many years of service. He feels lucky to have been born and raised in Punta Gorda, spending his formative years and those that followed fishing these warm waters. In Captain Johnny's words: 'It's home, and the best place to fish ANYWHERE!' Captain Johnny is happy to tailor each and every trip he offers to his customers, and enjoys every minute of guiding.
Johnny Riggs
Johnny Riggs
51
reviews
2016
member since
~3h
response
Captain Johnny Riggs is a military veteran with many years of service. He feels lucky to have been born and raised in Punta Gorda, spending his formative years and those that followed fishing these warm waters. In Captain Johnny's words: 'It's home, and the best place to fish ANYWHERE!' Captain Johnny is happy to tailor each and every trip he offers to his customers, and enjoys every minute of guiding.

The fish you can target

Cobia
Cobia
Gag Grouper
Gag Grouper
Goliath Grouper
Goliath Grouper
Red Grouper
Red Grouper
Permit
Permit
Redfish
Redfish
Bull Shark
Bull Shark
Hammerhead Shark
Hammerhead Shark
Mangrove Snapper
Mangrove Snapper
Snook
Snook
Speckled Trout
Speckled Trout
Tarpon
Tarpon
Cobia
Cobia
Gag Grouper
Gag Grouper
Goliath Grouper
Goliath Grouper
Red Grouper
Red Grouper
Permit
Permit

What is the boat like?

Boat image
Boat category
Center console boats
Capacity
4 persons
Boat length
24 ft
Year built
1973
Restored in
2024
Boat manufacturer
Pro-Line
Boat type
Center console
Engine model
Yamaha
Powered by
1 x 150HP

What kind of fishing will you do?

Inshore Fishing
Nearshore Fishing
Reef Fishing
Wreck Fishing
Flats Fishing
Backcountry Fishing

Which fishing techniques you can try

Light Tackle
Heavy Tackle
Bottom Fishing
Trolling
Jigging
Fly Fishing
Drift Fishing
Bowfishing

Which amenities are available onboard

GPS
Hummingbird
Fishfinder
Hummingbird
Live bait well
Wireless trolling motor
Ice box
Radar
Hummingbird
What's included in the trip price
Rods, reels & tackle
Live bait
Fishing for bait is included in the price
Lures
Catch cleaning & filleting
Cleaning is included
Drinks
Bottled water and ice provided
Fishing license
All licenses and gear provided

How cancellations work

Free cancellation up to 7 days prior to trip
You can cancel or modify your booking up to 7 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 included in price
Transfer from hotels or jetties in Punta Gorda to departure site is available and included in trip rates.
Child friendly
Kids welcome!
You keep catch
Limits apply
Catch and release allowed

How you can pay

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

What’s biting in Punta Gorda right now

CobiaCobia
Grouper (Gag)Grouper (Gag)
Grouper (Goliath)Grouper (Goliath)
Grouper (Red)Grouper (Red)
PermitPermit
RedfishRedfish
Shark (Bull)Shark (Bull)
Shark (Hammerhead)Shark (Hammerhead)
Snapper (Mangrove)Snapper (Mangrove)
SnookSnook
Speckled TroutSpeckled Trout
TarponTarpon

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Captain Johnny Riggs
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5.0
(51)
24 ft
Group size 1 - 4
1 - 4
Fish 1
Fish 2
+10
4 hour trip • 4 persons
US $600