Captain Mike Smith, (Smitty)

Captain Mike Smith, (Smitty), is the owner and operator of Smitty’s Surf Fishing located in Navarre Beach Florida. He’s a 28-year Air Force veteran with close to 40 years of fishing experience, and over 20 of that was right along the Gulf Coast. Mike grew up in Virginia, fishing the rivers and estuaries of the Chesapeake Bay for trout, flounder, and striped bass.  As he moved around in the military, he took advantage of all the fishing that was available at each location. Whether he was chasing giant catfish and walleye in North Dakota, largemouth bass in Maryland, or elusive trout in the hills of California and South Korea, he was always able to locate the fish.

Smitty is also a certified Florida Friendly Fishing Guide. What does that mean?  The Florida Friendly Fishing Guide certification recognizes saltwater and freshwater fishing guides who are committed to preserving the future of Florida’s fisheries through sustainable boating and fishing techniques. Not only does he put clients on fish but he educates on the ethical and sustainable practices of fishing the Gulf Coast.

The best part of being a guide he says is putting kids on fish; closely followed by putting clients on their biggest or first fish. Smitty likes to say that his mission is to get you fishing as well as make your charter as memorable and fun-filled as he possibly can. His goal is to educate future anglers so they can come back and fish on their own, but he’s not opposed to them booking another trip!