Captain
Anthony Polizze

Member since April 2025 Big Pine Key, United States
Background
Hi, I’m Captain Tony Polizze. Originally from the Jersey Shore, I grew up in Wildwood Crest and Cape May, New Jersey—where my love for fishing began the day I landed a 38” striped bass right off the beach. From that moment on, I was hooked. Growing up, I spent my summers fishing up north and my winters down in South Florida, where I explored the waters of the southeast and southwest coasts—and eventually, the Florida Keys. The contrast between northern and southern fisheries shaped me as an angler, giving me a deep respect for the challenge and strategy each species brings. Even now, I’m always thinking through how to land the next trophy fish these beautiful waters have to offer. Today, I’m proud to call the Florida Keys home and run my fishing charter out of Big Pine Key—right in the heart of some of the best fishing in the world. From backcountry, bridge, and patch reef fishing to thrilling offshore trips, there's always something exciting to chase in any season or condition. But fishing isn't the only thing that drives me—family is everything to me. My wife and I share a deep love for the ocean and the lifestyle that comes with living in the Keys. We’ve spent countless days together exploring these waters, and it never gets old. We're raising our two beautiful daughters, Olivia and Claudia, to appreciate the same sense of adventure, nature, and connection that fishing brings. One of my greatest joys is sharing this experience with other families—especially kids. I love teaching children how to fish and seeing their excitement when they reel in something colorful and wild. For me, fishing is about more than just the catch. It’s about the experience, the patience, and the lasting memories created on the water. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a first-time fisherman, I invite you to join me for an unforgettable day on the water. Let’s create memories that will last a lifetime. Tight lines, Captain Tony Your Fishing Guide to the Florida Keys
Techniques
Captain Tony uses a variety of effective fishing techniques tailored to the conditions and target species of the day. Whether you're casting light tackle near the bridges, bottom fishing over the reefs, or drifting along the backcountry channels, there's always action to be had. He incorporates methods like spinning, jigging, and cast-and-retrieve to keep anglers engaged, while trolling is occasionally used when conditions are right. From light tackle for snapper to heavy tackle for battling big sharks or grouper, Captain Tony ensures every trip is hands-on, educational, and fun for all skill levels.

Hey, I'm Captain Anthony Polizze

Big Pine Key, United States
Background
Hi, I’m Captain Tony Polizze. Originally from the Jersey Shore, I grew up in Wildwood Crest and Cape May, New Jersey—where my love for fishing began the day I landed a 38” striped bass right off the beach. From that moment on, I was hooked. Growing up, I spent my summers fishing up north and my winters down in South Florida, where I explored the waters of the southeast and southwest coasts—and eventually, the Florida Keys. The contrast between northern and southern fisheries shaped me as an angler, giving me a deep respect for the challenge and strategy each species brings. Even now, I’m always thinking through how to land the next trophy fish these beautiful waters have to offer. Today, I’m proud to call the Florida Keys home and run my fishing charter out of Big Pine Key—right in the heart of some of the best fishing in the world. From backcountry, bridge, and patch reef fishing to thrilling offshore trips, there's always something exciting to chase in any season or condition. But fishing isn't the only thing that drives me—family is everything to me. My wife and I share a deep love for the ocean and the lifestyle that comes with living in the Keys. We’ve spent countless days together exploring these waters, and it never gets old. We're raising our two beautiful daughters, Olivia and Claudia, to appreciate the same sense of adventure, nature, and connection that fishing brings. One of my greatest joys is sharing this experience with other families—especially kids. I love teaching children how to fish and seeing their excitement when they reel in something colorful and wild. For me, fishing is about more than just the catch. It’s about the experience, the patience, and the lasting memories created on the water. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a first-time fisherman, I invite you to join me for an unforgettable day on the water. Let’s create memories that will last a lifetime. Tight lines, Captain Tony Your Fishing Guide to the Florida Keys
Techniques
Captain Tony uses a variety of effective fishing techniques tailored to the conditions and target species of the day. Whether you're casting light tackle near the bridges, bottom fishing over the reefs, or drifting along the backcountry channels, there's always action to be had. He incorporates methods like spinning, jigging, and cast-and-retrieve to keep anglers engaged, while trolling is occasionally used when conditions are right. From light tackle for snapper to heavy tackle for battling big sharks or grouper, Captain Tony ensures every trip is hands-on, educational, and fun for all skill levels.

My Charter Listing

Excellent
5.0 / 5
(10 reviews)
Big Pine Key
 Instant Confirmation
Trips from US $575

Fishing Reports

Florida Keys summer Time!
Florida Keys summer Time!
Jul 20, 2025 Big Pine Key
Over the next two weeks, weโ€™re moving into a diminishing moon phase, which often brings better action during the morning and late afternoon bite windows. Keep an eye on the major Solunar feeding periods and moving tides โ€” timing is everything! Backcountry: The channels have been productive, especially on a strong moving tide. Mangrove snapper are still biting well, and thereโ€™s no shortage of action with aggressive barracuda cruising through. Target the deeper cuts and edges of the channels for best results. Reef Edge: Thereโ€™s plenty of surface activity happening on the reef! Watch for bait getting pushed to the top โ€” when you see boiling water, thereโ€™s a good chance youโ€™ll find Cero and Spanish mackerel feeding underneath. You might even spot the occasional rainbow runner or mahi sneaking in closer than usual. Offshore: Mahi are scattered offshore, primarily around weed lines in 600+ feet of water. Most fish are in the 20โ€โ€“26โ€ range. Drag weedless squid rigs or chuggers and cover plenty of ground โ€” persistence pays off! Reef Bite: The current has been a bit slow on the reef, which can make yellowtail fishing more challenging. Theyโ€™re still around โ€” just find the current and youโ€™ll find the fish. Summer conditions have brought calm seas, but be aware that fish tend to move deeper during the heat of the day. Pro Tip: Get out early, check the tide charts, and align your trip with the major feeding periods for the best shot at success. Hope to see you out there soon โ€” letโ€™s get hooked up!
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Customer reviews

Rating summary
Excellent
5.0 / 5
out of 5 stars from 10 reviews
Boat
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Crew
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Experience
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Photos & videos by reviewers (52)
We loved it!
We loved it!
We loved it!
+49
Angler rating
10
0
0
0
0
Anglers claimed
Good experience
100%
Friendly captain
100%
Recommend this charter
100%
Appropriate for children
100%
Satisfied with the boat
100%
Caught fish
100%
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5 of 10 reviews
The Smoky Mountain Cabins Tennessee
Big Pine Key, Florida
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Experience:
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Boat
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Crew
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Overall

Great Memories with Captain Tony and Florida Keys Island Fishing Charters!

4 Hour Trip โ€“ Reef Fishing (AM) on May 8, 2025
When weโ€™re in the Florida Keys, we always call Captain Tony to take us out on the water. Whether itโ€™s exploring the islands...
The Smoky Mountain Cabins Tennessee recommends Florida Keys Island Fishing Charters
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The Smoky Mountain Cabins Tennessee recommends Florida Keys Island Fishing Charters
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Mishaps In Paradise Books
Big Pine Key, Florida
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Experience:
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Boat
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Crew
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Overall

We highly recommend Florida Keys Island Fishing Charters!

4 Hour Trip โ€“ Backcountry (AM) on May 29, 2025
As the author of the Mishaps in Paradise book series, I can confidently say that trips with Captain Tony have been a true source...
Mishaps In Paradise Books recommends Florida Keys Island Fishing Charters
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Mishaps In Paradise Books recommends Florida Keys Island Fishing Charters
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Steve B.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Experience:
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Boat
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Crew
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Overall

Great trip, captain, and experience

VERIFIED   NEW  4 Hour Trip โ€“ Reef Fishing (AM) on July 14, 2025
Captain Tony took out me and a lifelong friend along with our two boys. Caught fish. Laughed it up. Kids had a blast helping...
Steve B. recommends Florida Keys Island Fishing Charters
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  Anthony Polizze Captain replied

Pablo C.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Experience:
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Boat
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Crew
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Overall

We loved it!

VERIFIED   NEW  3-Hour Afternoon Fishing Trip (PM) on July 15, 2025
Tony took the time to explain everything and we had a blast of a fishing day!
Pablo C. recommends Florida Keys Island Fishing Charters
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  Anthony Polizze Captain replied

David G.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Experience:
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Boat
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Crew
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Overall

Captain Tony A+

VERIFIED   3 Hour Trip โ€“ Backcountry (AM) on June 5, 2025
Fantastic captain, got us right on fish. Boat and gear was terrific. Very helpful with local knowledge. Went out of his way...
David G. recommends Florida Keys Island Fishing Charters
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David G. recommends Florida Keys Island Fishing Charters
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