Naples charter guide puts customers on fish off shore and in back waters

Despite some mixed messages in the media about where oil is in the Gulf of Mexico, resident and visiting fishing enthusiasts are reaping rich rewards when they wet their lines with an experienced guide near and offshore southwest Florida. Party boats can be worthwhile but guides usually provide better results through one-on-one instruction, personalized assistance with gear and catch, and in some cases scheduling flexibility that maximizes the chances of hook-ups.
On September 3 Captain Phil Haley took a threesome out on the Tarpon Tamer, a 25-foot Parker. Conditions were perfect for a half-day trip to an old shipwreck in 38 feet of water about ten miles offshore, with a light breeze over 88-degree crystal clear waters. The party was having such a blast reeling in 14 mangrove snapper between 12 and 15 inches in length, two barracuda (one bruiser was 47”) and two goliath grouper weighing 50 to 75 pounds each they didn't want to leave.  Fortunately, the captain's afternoon was free and they were able to extend their tour to 3/4 day.
For longer days (and bigger fish) Captain Phil heads for a deep hole about 25 miles off shore in 70 feet of water. There a natural spring seeps through a cave that is estimated to be more than 100 feet deep and holds a much larger variety of game fish.
Near shore the fall arrival of permit is always a fun challenge. Local wrecks can hold dozens of 30+ pound “smoking giants” as they are referred to by Captain Phil. For best results plan for an early morning falling tide and drop lines at sunrise, before the surface becomes crowded and the bite turns off.
And don’t forget backcountry shallows – Captain Phil's other boat, the Tarpon Tamer II, is a 24’ Century perfect for finding redfish, tarpon, trout and more amidst the murky shallows of oyster reefs and mangrove islands.
Like most guides, Captain Phil provides all the gear needed to reel in a big one, and will clean and even cook the catch upon request. A Florida native with fifteen years of experience as a captain and guide in the Naples area, Captain Phil puts his clients in the action no matter what the target. His expert skills and knowledge of local waters combined with down-home country charisma make his guided experience one that won’t soon be forgotten.
For more information or to plan a fishing trip with Captain Phil, call 239-340-FISH, or visit www.tarpontamer.com.