Julia Appelt
Julia Appelt
us
California, US
•
Member since 2026
5.0
Verified

Amazing experience with an unexpected outcome!

3 Hour Trip – Backcountry (AM)4 adults1 child

We went on the fishing trip to catch some decent size fish. The experience was predominantly for our boys, 12 and 15. Our 15 year old was hoping to catch some good fish. The boys did catch a variety of fish. But…. Long story short, one of the bigger fish our son caught got bitten off the rod- with only the head left. Captain Tony set up a rail for a shark using that head as the bait and our boy ended catching a 7 ft shark! Captain Tony was amazing, he was guiding our son and steering the boat so that he can get the shark to the top. He spent extra time with us because of that, and at no time he pressured to go back. In fact he encouraged our son to keep going. I would definitely recommend Captain Tony and if we are ever back in the Keys, we will be booking another trip.

Reported Catch
Mangrove Snapper
Mangrove Snapper
Cero Mackerel
Cero Mackerel
Yellowtail Snapper
Yellowtail Snapper
Response from Captain

It was truly an amazing experience sharing the incredible fishery the Florida Keys has to offer with you and your family. I’m especially glad we were able to land that shark for your son—he did a fantastic job, especially considering we were fighting a 175+ pound shark on 40 lb braid! Until next time, wishing you all following seas and tight lines. Capt. Tony 🎣

Compare similar fishing charters

Current
Florida Keys Island Fishing Charters
Federally permitted
5.0
(47)
24 ft
Group size 1 - 4
1 - 4
Fish 1
Fish 2
+9
4 hour trip • 4 persons
US $699

Rating

5.0
47 reviews
5.0
Boat & Equipment
5.0
Captain & Crew
5.0
Fishing Experience

What anglers say

  • 100%
    Great experience
  • 97%
    Family friendly
  • 100%
    Friendly captain
  • 100%
    Good boat
  • 100%
    Recommended
  • 96%
    Caught fish

All reviews (47)

Showing 1 – 5 of 47 reviews
  • Alice Bullin
    Alice Bullin
    us
    North Carolina, US
    •
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Core memories were made!

    Sunset fishing cruise • 4 adults • 2 children

    We had an incredible experience with Captain Tony! From the moment we stepped on the boat, he made our family feel completely at ease. He was so patient with our 6-year-old twins, answering what felt like a million “why?” questions with kindness and enthusiasm. He took the time to carefully explain how everything worked and why, making the trip educational as well as fun. By the end of the evening, it honestly felt like we had spent time with a family member rather than someone we had just met. His knowledge, patience, and genuine love for what he does made this one of the highlights of our vacation. We truly couldn’t recommend Captain Tony more and would book with him again in a heartbeat!

    Reported Catch
    Black Grouper
    Response from Captain

    i had an awesome time with you all! Thank You fornyour kind words and lets get fishing again soon! wish you all fair winds and following seas! capt Tony

  • John Helms
    John Helms
    us
    North Carolina, US
    •
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Captain Tony was amazing

    Sunset fishing cruise • 3 adults • 1 child

    We had an incredible deep sea fishing experience with Captain Tony! From the moment we set out, he was professional, friendly, and clearly knew exactly where to go for the best catch. He made everyone feel comfortable, whether you were experienced or brand new to fishing, and was always ready to help with tips and guidance. The boat was clean, well-maintained, and fully equipped, and safety was clearly a top priority. Best of all—we caught plenty of fish and had an amazing time doing it! Captain Tony’s knowledge, patience, and great attitude made the whole trip unforgettable. If you’re looking for a fun, successful day out on the water, I highly recommend booking with Captain Tony. We’ll definitely be back!

    Reported Catch
    Mutton Snapper
    Response from Captain

    Thank you for your kind words! Im so happy you all enjoyed the trip. I am looking forward to our next trip out! tight lines Capt Tony

  • Julia Appelt
    Julia Appelt
    us
    California, US
    •
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Amazing experience with an unexpected outcome!

    3 Hour Trip – Backcountry (AM) • 4 adults • 1 child

    We went on the fishing trip to catch some decent size fish. The experience was predominantly for our boys, 12 and 15. Our 15 year old was hoping to catch some good fish. The boys did catch a variety of fish. But…. Long story short, one of the bigger fish our son caught got bitten off the rod- with only the head left. Captain Tony set up a rail for a shark using that head as the bait and our boy ended catching a 7 ft shark! Captain Tony was amazing, he was guiding our son and steering the boat so that he can get the shark to the top. He spent extra time with us because of that, and at no time he pressured to go back. In fact he encouraged our son to keep going. I would definitely recommend Captain Tony and if we are ever back in the Keys, we will be booking another trip.

    Reported Catch
    Mangrove Snapper
    Cero Mackerel
    Yellowtail Snapper
    Response from Captain

    It was truly an amazing experience sharing the incredible fishery the Florida Keys has to offer with you and your family. I’m especially glad we were able to land that shark for your son—he did a fantastic job, especially considering we were fighting a 175+ pound shark on 40 lb braid! Until next time, wishing you all following seas and tight lines. Capt. Tony 🎣

  • Steve Seever
    Steve Seever
    Repeat angler
    us
    Pennsylvania, US
    •
    Member since 2022
    •
    3 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    An awesome Father’s Day trip with my daughter

    3 Hour Trip – Backcountry (AM) • 2 adults

    We were interested in a back country trip for snappers for a nice lunch. well we caught one keeper. However, the large barracuda (mine) and the 6’ bull shark (my daughter 🤣) along with a bunch of other fish we’d never caught made up for it. Capt Tony is an awesome guide. Very personable. The kind of person you enjoy spending the day with! Boat and equipment very nice. He taught us quite a bit about the different techniques used in the area. A wonderful experience and we plan on doing this with Capt. Tony again. Thank you!

    Reported Catch
    Great Barracuda
    Mangrove Snapper
    Yellowtail Snapper
    Bull Shark
    Response from Captain

    it was a beautiful day out in the back country! Thank you for your kind words and looking forward to getting on them again soon! wish you a nice fathers Day and it was my plesure to be a part of a cool memory! until next time, wishing you following seas and tight lines!! capt Tony

  • Kevin Sak
    Kevin Sak
    us
    Florida, US
    •
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Great Morning On The Water!

    3 Hour Trip – Bridge Fishing (AM) • 3 adults

    Captain Tony is a fantastic host and a super nice guy! We came back with fish for dinner, reeled in a 5ft nurse shark shortly into the trip, and a nice tarpon to close out the trip at the end. We also had a barracudda on the line but my novice fishing skills let him get away. Overall i would highly recommend a trip with Tony if you want a relaxed and fun day on the water. Thanks Tony for a womderful time!

    Reported Catch
    Great Barracuda
    Mangrove Snapper
    Tarpon
    Response from Captain

    had an awesome time fishing with you guys! lets get em again soon! wish you all a nice summer! tight lines Capt Tony