Secret Coast Fishing Charters 

Where do I start! Eli was amazing!! I had told him when I booked that my stepson was eager to catch “a big one” and boy, did Eli help make that a reality!! First, he contacted me about perhaps altering our planned area to fish because he had noticed a lot of activity in another area. I agreed and we ended up fishing in the barrier island area instead of the Bay. After not catching anything at the first spot, Eli was en route to the next spot when he spotted dolphins in a feeding frenzy. With knowledge that only he possessed due to experience, Eli immediately sped up the boat and got us in front of the dolphins. Threw a line in and my stepson was able to bring in a massive redfish!! We weren’t able to keep it due to its large size, but boy was my stepson on cloud 9!! We continued to the next spot where we brought in sheepshead after sheepshead. After catching about 20, we went out to a barrier island and just puttered around for a bit before heading back to shore. Captain Eli was amazing! Friendly, knowledgeable, and he made my stepson’s dreams come true (and ours, too!!) Book with him! You will NOT regret it!!

We had an outstanding trip with Captain Elijah! From the start, he made it clear that his priority was putting us on fish. Originally, we planned to head out to Cat Island, but Captain Elijah was honest and upfront that the bite hadn’t been great out there. Instead of sticking to the original plan just for the sake of it, he adjusted and took us to the pillars by the train bridge — and that decision paid off big time. We ended up catching multiple sheepshead, a big black drum, flounder, and even a mullet. The action stayed steady, and it was clear he really knows the local waters and how fish are moving. He also kept a close eye on the weather and made smart decisions throughout the trip to give us the best opportunity to catch fish safely and comfortably. You can tell he cares about both the experience and the results. If you’re looking for a captain who’s knowledgeable, adaptable, and focused on putting you on fish, Captain Elijah is your guy. We’ll definitely be booking again!

Captain Troutman exceeded every expectation when it came to scheduling, services, professionalism, and most importantly: fishing expertise. Black drum, flounder, trout redfish, simply non-stop action and fun with my group of friends as the Captain was constantly putting us on fish, rigging us up to cast back out, or helping getting the fish unhooked and into the boat. The best part is the preparation and care he ensures with the fish at the end, sending you home with an incredible dinner to cook that night, sea to table. To anyone in the area, you won’t regret going out on these waters with a true native and fish whisperer.

Captain Troutman's charter to Chandeleur Island was epic! He knew exactly where to find the fish, and we crushed it with tons of redfish and the biggest speckled trout we’ve ever seen. The man is very knowledgeable on the local ecosystems, history, and wildlife. His expertise and friendly attitude made the trip unforgettable – I highly recommend booking with him for an amazing fishing adventure!

By far the best captain, fisherman, and person I’ve ever fished with. He put us on fish constantly, if the trout weren’t biting we smashed redfish and sharks and broke off some big tarpon! I’d say the gulfs best inshore guide out there. His knowledge of saltwater fishing and boating is unmatched. Will book again asap!

Absolutely awesome experience! limited out on flounder within the first couple hours and then capt took us to another spot! This is not my first charter and Eli ranks with some of the best. I highly recommend him.

Eli is hands down the best quote! Very hands on and passionate about fishing! HIGHLY recommend

Let me tell ya about Captain Troutman. Easily the best angler I’ve had the honor to fish with. Some people love to fish, some people live to fish.. this man is ONE with the fish. He knows these waters like the back of his hand and can smell’em out the air. AND THAT AIN’T NO LIE! I’ve been fishing with Captain Troutman for about 10 years now, and I honestly could not think of a better captain. He’s honorable, honest, hard working, dedicated to his trade, a family man, and a Local!! And the dude just knows how to fill up an ice chest! I’ll tell ya a quick story. We load up one Sunday morning, Elijah, our buddy Austin, and myself; looking to bring some dinner home. We Run out to the islands about 530-6 in the morning. First cast slings out! Nothing.. Second cast comes whipping out!! Again, nothing. Third cast goes out, I’m thinking “no way I miss one” and BANG! Nothing again.. But We can see schools of fish everywhere! Bull reds smashing on top the water. Hell, there were even two sharks trying to steal our catches. So we knew they were out there. Soon after, Elijah walks up calmly to the front of the boat, closes his eyes, covers one nostril, and takes a deep breath with the other. Suddenly one eye flashes open! His arm rises slowly with a stern finger pointed ahead. He cracks a smirk, then a calm and confident voice breaks the cutting edge of the silence “I can smell’em boys, they’re 300 feet RIGHT THERE” The trolling motor slides into the glass like waters, and we slide across like a ninja in the night. Then.. it was on! It was like these fish just got a ‘today eviction notice’ and we couldn’t miss! 1fish 2fish redfish bluefish, we took home all the fish. More fish than one could count! Some would name it a rare phenomenon called “insta-bite”. Needless to say we brought home the “aqua bacon”. Don’t miss your chance to book a trip with this man! His efforts and efficiency are endless, and you’ll come home with a TON of fish and memories!

If you’re looking for a great time on the water and an ice chest full of fish look no further. Capt. Eli is second to none when it comes to charters. He is very professional and hands on, a “reel” master of his craft. I highly recommend booking with him.

Eli is the best guy around. Been on multiple trips with him and left every single one with coolers of fish and an amazing time. Eli does everything his power to ensure that we have a good time highly recommend fishing with him.