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Q Simpkins
Captain

Q Simpkins

Pensacola, United States
Federal waters
25+ reviews
I was born and raised right here in Pensacola, Florida, and I have been fishing my whole life. I've always had a strong passion for fishing and environmental science, and it has also always been a dream of mine to be a charter boat captain. In 2021, I began my journey toward becoming a charter boat captain and took a job as a deckhand. I have been a deckhand on multiple charter boats while also learning the local waters on my own personal boat and fishing to fill the freezer. I love getting out on the water, teaching others about our environment, and sharing knowledge about the fishery that is constantly changing in our area. The same thrill and rush I get from fishing is what I want others to experience when they go out on the water with me. Catching fish is amazing, but the memories we make on the water are irreplaceable.

Charters

Rating

4.9
46 reviews
4.9
Boat & Equipment
5.0
Captain & Crew
5.0
Fishing Experience

What anglers say

97%
Good experience
100%
Friendly captain
100%
Recommend this charter
100%
Satisfied with the boat
100%
Caught fish

All reviews (46)

Showing 1 – 5 of 46 reviews
  • Justin Tiseth
    Justin Tiseth
    us
    Florida, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    exactly what we wanted

    6 Hour Trip- Offshore (Am) • 4 adults • 2 children

    ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 stars doesn’t even begin to cover it! If you’re looking for a fishing charter that feels less like a business transaction and more like spending the day on the water with family, Captain Q is your guy! From the very beginning, he was incredibly laid-back, welcoming, and family-oriented. His knowledge of the water and fishing is second to none, and he knew exactly what he was doing when it came to putting us on the fish. Thanks to him, I was able to check one of my bucket-list fish off my list—something I’ll never forget! But honestly, the best part of the entire trip wasn’t just the fish we caught. It was the experience. Captain Q has a way of making you feel completely comfortable, like you’ve known him for years. There was no pressure, no stuffy charter atmosphere—just good conversation, plenty of laughs, great fishing, and an unforgettable day on the water. I went on this trip with a stranger and came back with a new family member. That says everything you need to know about Captain Q. If you’re considering booking a charter with him, DO IT. Whether you’re an experienced angler or just looking to make some incredible memories with your family, you won’t regret it. We’ll absolutely be fishing with Captain Q again! 🎣 Great captain. Great fishing. Even better human being

    Reported catch:
    Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
    Response from Captain

    you got that right about Family because y’all will see me here soon soon as that rut kicks off haha ! I might have to send you guys some fish in trade for some deer meat. But until next time, tight lines. 

  • Sarah Jones
    Sarah Jones
    Repeat angler
    us
    Texas, US
    Member since 2025
    2 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Captain Q doesn’t just put you on fish; he creates an experience our family will always remember.

    4 Hour Trip-Inshore(PM) • 5 adults • 2 children

    We had an absolute blast on our 6-hour inshore fishing trip with Captain Q and Southern Strike in Pensacola! 🎣 Hands down, this was the BEST fishing trip we’ve ever been on. Captain Q was incredibly knowledgeable, charismatic, and made the entire experience so much fun. The boat was extremely comfortable, and what stood out the most was how welcoming and patient he was with our kids. He took the time to teach them, build their confidence, and help them become more knowledgeable and experienced anglers. We caught 20+ fish throughout the day! We were only able to keep a handful, so if your goal is to come home with a cooler full of fish, you may want to consider an offshore trip rather than inshore. For our family, though, it was never just about how many fish we could take home. It was about the experience, making memories, and making sure our kids were comfortable and having fun and Captain Q absolutely delivered. After spending the day on the water with Captain Q, I would 100% book an offshore trip with him and the kids next time. We vacation in Pensacola every year, and we’ve already decided that Captain Q with Southern Strike will be part of our trips moving forward. If you’re looking for a fishing guide who knows his stuff, makes you feel comfortable, and genuinely cares about creating a great experience for the whole family, Captain Q is your guy! And honestly, that’s what makes him so special, he’s not just your captain. By the end of the trip, he feels like a friend, if not family. ❤️🎣 We’ll definitely be back!

    Reported catch:
    Redfish
    Speckled Trout
    Response from Captain

    you guys made the job of being a captain extremely easy how easy y’all came across and also how much y’all were willing to learn. The kids definitely caught on and begin to get their technique down the more and more that we fished. Y’all battled through tough conditions, and also a tough bite, but still came out on top with some good eater fish. Next time we will definitely be going offshore to load up that cooler box so we can feed everyone back home. But until next time, be blessed and tight lines. 

  • Kayla Bryant
    Kayla Bryant
    us
    Texas, US
    Member since 2025
    5.0
    Verified

    It was More Than a Fishing Trip

    4 Hour Trip-Inshore(PM) • 4 adults

    From the moment we stepped on the boat, we felt like we were fishing with an old friend instead of a captain we had just met. He was incredibly knowledgeable and took the time to explain everything—not just what we were doing, but why we were doing it. He showed us the sonar screens, explained how to read them, taught us why different bait and tackle are used for different species of fish, and answered every question we had. On the ride out, he pointed out different landmarks and shared interesting information about the area, making the trip enjoyable before we even started fishing. His patience, friendliness, and genuine passion for what he does made the entire experience so much more than just catching fish. If you’re looking for a captain who is welcoming, experienced, and truly wants you to learn while having an amazing time, this is the one to book. We left with great memories, new knowledge, and already can’t wait to come back. Highly recommend

    Reported catch:
    Redfish
    Response from Captain

    I can’t wait to go fishing with you all again!! making memories ans catching fish ! until next time, tight lines

  • Carter Mansfield
    Carter Mansfield
    Repeat angler
    us
    Florida, US
    Member since 2024
    3 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Best Captain and Boat ever

    6 Hour Trip – (Inshore) • 4 adults

    Our in-shore fishing trip with Captain Q and Southern Strike LLC was absolutely outstanding from start to finish! Even though we weren’t able to keep most of the fish we caught due to regulations, the action was nonstop, and we caught plenty of fish throughout the day. Captain Q knew exactly where to take us and kept us on the fish the entire trip. As novice anglers, we really appreciated how patient, knowledgeable, and encouraging Captain Q was. He took the time to explain techniques, answer all of our questions, and made sure everyone felt comfortable and had a great experience. His positive attitude and professionalism made the day even more enjoyable. One thing that really stood out was the atmosphere on board. During the runs between fishing spots, Captain Q had the perfect playlist going—great, appropriate music that made the ride relaxing and fun without ever being over the top. If you’re looking for an experienced captain who works hard, treats his guests well, and genuinely wants everyone to have an amazing day on the water, Captain Q is the one to book. We only get to take a fishing trip once or twice a year, and we’ll definitely be booking with Southern Strike and Captain Q again for our next adventure. Highly recommended!

    Reported catch:
    Black Drum
    Redfish
    Response from Captain

    I had an amazing time out there on the water Carter with you and your family.  the atmosphere was definitely full of joy and laughter the whole trip and that’s what these charters are about, making memories that will last a lifetime. Y’all are no longer friends, but family of Southern Strike and I. Be sure to give me a call whenever y’all are in town cause I look forward to sharing some more Fishing stories with you all the next time I see you. Until next time Tight Lines.

  • Clayton Dilday
    Clayton Dilday
    us
    Hawaii, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Fantastic Catch, Even Better Captain!

    4 Hour Trip-Inshore(PM) • 3 adults

    If you are looking for an incredible day out on the water, look no further than Southern Strike Fishing Charters! We went out with Captain Q, and he was phenomenal from start to finish. He is incredibly attentive, easy-going, and so personable that you instantly feel right at home on his boat. ​We had an absolutely great day and brought home a fantastic catch, as you can see from our photo 11189.jpg. Captain Q went above and beyond, constantly making sure that every single aspect of our day was as good as it could possibly be. He knows exactly how to deliver a top-tier experience. Highly, highly recommend Southern Strike and Captain Q—we will definitely be back!

    Reported catch:
    Redfish
    Response from Captain

    I had an absolutely amazing time and I enjoyed our trip from start to finish and I can’t wait for you guys to come back down for us to do it all over again. Y’all are like family now so anytime y’all come into town please let me know. Until next time., tight lines !

Real catches shared by our community

  • Southern Strike LLC
    Southern Strike LLCPensacola, FL
    Two anglers actively engaged in fishing on a boat, with one reeling in a fish while the other prepares to assist. The vibrant blue ocean serves as a backdrop.
    Fish 1
    Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
    Justin T.
    Justin T.
    ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 stars doesn’t even begin to cover it! If you’re looking for a fishing charter that feels less like a business transaction and more like spending the day on the water with family, Captain Q is your guy! From the very beginning, he was incredibly laid-back, welcoming, and family-oriented. His knowledge of the water and fishing is second to none, and he knew exactly what he was doing when it came to putting us on the fish. Thanks to him, I was able to check one of my bucket-list fish off my list—something I’ll never forget! But honestly, the best part of the entire trip wasn’t just the fish we caught. It was the experience. Captain Q has a way of making you feel completely comfortable, like you’ve known him for years. There was no pressure, no stuffy charter atmosphere—just good conversation, plenty of laughs, great fishing, and an unforgettable day on the water. I went on this trip with a stranger and came back with a new family member. That says everything you need to know about Captain Q. If you’re considering booking a charter with him, DO IT. Whether you’re an experienced angler or just looking to make some incredible memories with your family, you won’t regret it. We’ll absolutely be fishing with Captain Q again! 🎣 Great captain. Great fishing. Even better human being
  • Southern Strike LLC
    Southern Strike LLCPensacola, FL
    Family group displaying several red snapper and a smaller fish on a marina dock, with charter boats and a Southwind Marina sign in the background.
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    +1
    Red Snapper
    Kailey B.
    Kailey B.
    Family from TX first time inshore fishing and it was incredible our guide was phenomenal and great with kids! We definitely will be back and book with him again! ❤️
  • Southern Strike LLC
    Southern Strike LLCPensacola, FL
    Angler proudly holding a red snapper aboard a fishing boat on calm coastal waters.
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    Red Snapper
    Ian M.
    Ian M.
    Captain Q is the absolute man! He is incredibly ethusiastic, personable, professional, and entertaining. We had an absolute blast inshore fishing his secret spots, and had a lot of success going for red snappers and mangrove snappers. Would highly recommend to others of all angling levels and backgrounds. Great day of fishing, music, conversation, and good vibes. 10/10!
  • Southern Strike LLC
    Southern Strike LLCPensacola, FL
    Large silver king mackerel hanging from a dockside weighing scale at a coastal fish-cleaning station, with an adult captain or crew member nearby.
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    +2
    King Mackerel (Kingfish)
    Jonathon G.
    Jonathon G.
    Awesome experience, we caught fish from the first drop. Captain Q knew where the fish were and what they wanted to bite. Will definitely be coming back
  • Southern Strike LLC
    Southern Strike LLCPensacola, FL
    Group of anglers gathered behind a large mixed saltwater catch, including numerous red snapper and other reef fish, arranged on a dockside fillet table.
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    +2
    Red Snapper
    James D.
    James D.
    We booked the trip with the Captain on the agreement to go a full day of deep dropping and trolling for Pelagic's. The morning of the trip the Captain informed us that the owner was coming along. We definitely did not mind, except the owner took over the charter and changed the agreed upon plan with the Captain. Assuming the owner was trying to save on fuel, the deepest water we saw was 350 feet. So not surprisingly, trolling was a bust and we didn't even limit out on red snapper. We could have made a fuss, but we had fun and caught some fish. The Captain seemed knowledgeable but the owners takeover over shadowed him. Use caution if you book and the owner decides to joint.
  • Southern Strike LLC
    Southern Strike LLCPensacola, FL
    Three young anglers proudly displaying their catch of several Speckled Trout on a fishing boat.
    Fish 1
    Gag Grouper
    Sarah J.
    Sarah J.
    We had an absolute blast on our 6-hour inshore fishing trip with Captain Q and Southern Strike in Pensacola! 🎣 Hands down, this was the BEST fishing trip we’ve ever been on. Captain Q was incredibly knowledgeable, charismatic, and made the entire experience so much fun. The boat was extremely comfortable, and what stood out the most was how welcoming and patient he was with our kids. He took the time to teach them, build their confidence, and help them become more knowledgeable and experienced anglers. We caught 20+ fish throughout the day! We were only able to keep a handful, so if your goal is to come home with a cooler full of fish, you may want to consider an offshore trip rather than inshore. For our family, though, it was never just about how many fish we could take home. It was about the experience, making memories, and making sure our kids were comfortable and having fun and Captain Q absolutely delivered. After spending the day on the water with Captain Q, I would 100% book an offshore trip with him and the kids next time. We vacation in Pensacola every year, and we’ve already decided that Captain Q with Southern Strike will be part of our trips moving forward. If you’re looking for a fishing guide who knows his stuff, makes you feel comfortable, and genuinely cares about creating a great experience for the whole family, Captain Q is your guy! And honestly, that’s what makes him so special, he’s not just your captain. By the end of the trip, he feels like a friend, if not family. ❤️🎣 We’ll definitely be back!
  • Southern Strike LLC
    Southern Strike LLCPensacola, FL
    Family group displaying a large dockside catch of pink snapper-like fish and a larger grouper on a boat cleaning table.
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    +3
    Vermilion Snapper
    Matthew S.
    Matthew S.
    We had a total of six family members on the Boat and captain Q and his first mate kept on the hooks and fish going in the bucket! Had an amazing time, highly recommend! ďżź
  • Southern Strike LLC
    Southern Strike LLCPensacola, FL
    Young angler holding two red snapper aboard a fishing boat on open coastal waters.
    Fish 1
    Red Snapper
    Kayla B.
    Kayla B.
    From the moment we stepped on the boat, we felt like we were fishing with an old friend instead of a captain we had just met. He was incredibly knowledgeable and took the time to explain everything—not just what we were doing, but why we were doing it. He showed us the sonar screens, explained how to read them, taught us why different bait and tackle are used for different species of fish, and answered every question we had. On the ride out, he pointed out different landmarks and shared interesting information about the area, making the trip enjoyable before we even started fishing. His patience, friendliness, and genuine passion for what he does made the entire experience so much more than just catching fish. If you’re looking for a captain who is welcoming, experienced, and truly wants you to learn while having an amazing time, this is the one to book. We left with great memories, new knowledge, and already can’t wait to come back. Highly recommend
  • Southern Strike LLC
    Southern Strike LLCPensacola, FL
    Angler proudly displaying a large Amberjack on a fishing boat in calm waters.
    Fish 1
    Red Snapper
    Tyler T.
    Tyler T.
  • Southern Strike LLC
    Southern Strike LLCPensacola, FL
    Two anglers posing in front of a catch board displaying a variety of fish, including Snapper, at Southwind Marina after a successful fishing trip.
    Fish 1
    Red Snapper
    Mandy W.
    Mandy W.
    Awesome outing with Q and his crew! Both were such nice guys, patient and made the trip so fun! Boat and gear was great. He definitely knows where to find the fish! Thabk you Southern Strike! Highly recommend!

Our Fishing Locations

What's biting with Southern Strike LLC in Pensacola

The Running of the Bull Reds continues! Join the fun for unforgettable fishing and serious bragging rights. Combine your trip with going after Flounder in the bay, and you'll head home with a delicious treat, too.

Top catches for November

Fishing reports

Two adult anglers pose aboard a center-console fishing boat with a large amberjack over open ocean.

A beautiful day with a very diverse Fish

Apr 28, 2025 • Pensacola
today we had a half day offshore adventure, and from the time we started all the way until the end we had poles bending and Fish coming over the side of the boat. We caught a red grouper and a king mackerel, which really both put up a wonderful fight. And we even caught some greater amberjack that got the best of us a few times, but we managed to get a few out of there. And don’t let me forget we also hit a four person limit on Vermillion snapper which was 40!! and we also seen a few cobia that would not bite or eat anything, but it was still a wonderful site to see along with the 20+ pound red snapper that we’re coming up to the side of the boat!
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Two young anglers proudly displaying a large Redfish while sitting on a boat, showcasing a successful fishing trip.

Bay Slay Day

Mar 21, 2025 • Pensacola
The bite was really slow and the fish were really lethargic, but soon as feeding time began, the bite was on. we lost many, but we caught a couple.
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