Backcountry & Inshore Fishing Guide
Bonefish, Tarpon, Permit, Snook, Redfish & more!
About
Captain Nick Castillo is a PhD scientist and inshore saltwater flats fishing guide with a passion for science and conservation. A South Florida native and lifelong angler, Nick has been guiding in the Florida Keys and Biscayne Bay since 2015 after he studied environmental science at Duke University. Nick’s PhD research focused on the presence of pharmaceutical contaminants in bonefish and redfish, and he continues to be actively involved in conservation efforts to protect these fisheries.
Nick specializes in targeting flats fish on fly and spin with anglers of all skill levels, but everything that swims is on the menu. He loves introducing new anglers of all ages to the sport of inshore fishing, and sharing his passion for understanding the environments that support our world-class fisheries.
Nick is the perfect guide for anglers who want to experience the majesty of the Everglades, Florida Keys, and Biscayne Bay, AND learn about the ecology and science behind protecting the fisheries.
Where You’ll Be Fishing
Capt. Nick primarily operates out of Angler House Marina in Islamorada, but you can also join him for a day out in Biscayne Bay while visiting Miami, or out of Flamingo Marina where you can directly access Florida Bay and the Everglades. Whether in the Florida Keys or Miami, you’re only a call away from the inshore fishing experience of a lifetime!
Check out this bonefish research video showcasing Capt. Nick!
The Saltwater Experience crew, with Capts. Tom Rowland and Rich Tudor, joined Capt. Nick for a day on the water bonefishing in the Upper Keys. Watch the video above to see bonefish science in action!
Guided Trips
Spin or Fly Fishing Adventures in the Florida Keys, Everglades, Islamorada or Biscayne Bay!
Half Day
4 hours on the water
$550
3/4 Day
6 hours on the water
$700
Full Day
8 hours on the water
$850
Gear
Every fishing guide takes pride in their gear. Being prepared is key!
The Skiff
17 ft. Maverick HPX-V with Yamaha 90hp
Spin Fishing Setups:
We use Diawa Reels paired with Biscayne Rods.
Fly Fishing Setups:
We use Scott Fly Rods paired with either Tibor or Nautilus Reels.
Target Species
Bonefish
ALBULA VULPES
Capt. Nick specializes in both fly and spin fishing for bonefish. The elusive and lightning-fast “ghost of the flats” are a top choice for both fly and spin fishing enthusiasts. Pursuing bonefish not only tests your angling skills but also offers the thrill of sight casting in crystal-clear waters.
Tarpon
MEGALOPS ATLANTICUS
The Silver King, tarpon should be at the top of any anglers’ bucket list. In the Florida Keys we have one of the best tarpon fisheries in the world, particularly sight fishing for them on fly. We primarily target tarpon March-August, but they can be available year- round on bait, artificial, and fly.
Permit
TRACHINOTUS FALCATUS
Pursuing permit offers a unique and challenging experience as you test your skills seeking one of the most rewarding experiences in fishing. Join Capt. Nick for an unforgettable day on the water and embark on the quest for the elusive permit.
Snook
CENTROPOMUS UNDECIMALIS
Located deep in the Everglades and Florida Bay, join Capt. Nick for a real backcountry experience targeting snook. Our snook fishery is truly unique in that we can target them on the flats and along mangrove shorelines, all without ever seeing another boat.
Redfish
SCIAENOPS OCELLATUS
With a wave of their tail while they feed on crustaceans buried amongst the seagrass beds, redfish are truly a special fish to target on fly and spin. On the flats and along mangrove shorelines, redfishing provides the quintessential Everglades and Florida Bay experience.
We chase other species, too!
Sea Trout, Jack Crevalle, Spanish Mackerel, Tripletail, Cobia, Barracuda, SHARKS and more!
As fishing guides, we target various other species depending on season.