MEET THE CAPTAIN
CAPT. TJ ZINKAND
Captain TJ Zinkand was born and raised in Islamorada, where his passion for fishing began at an early age. After spending several years in Miami Beach, he returned to the Florida Keys in 2008 to fully dedicate himself to a professional career on the water. Growing up, TJ spent countless days fishing alongside his grandfather and father, mastering the techniques needed to target redfish, snook, and tarpon in the backcountry.
His love for fishing and adventure drew him offshore, where he honed his skills pursuing sailfish, dolphin (mahi-mahi), and other pelagic species. With decades of experience fishing South Florida’s waters and the guidance of seasoned local anglers who have spent their lives here, Captain TJ has developed a deep knowledge of both inshore and offshore techniques.
An accomplished tournament angler and dedicated family man, Captain TJ is passionate about sharing the incredible fishery of Islamorada with anglers of all ages and skill levels. Whether guiding first-time visitors or seasoned sport fishermen, his goal is to deliver a safe, memorable, and highly rewarding day on the water.
From flats to offshore
OUR BOATS
Captain TJ maintains one of the most versatile Islamorada fishing charter fleets in the Florida Keys, ensuring every trip is perfectly suited to your goals.
His lineup include a Hewes flats boat for shallow-water backcountry fishing, a Grand Slam technical poling skiff for fly fishing the flats, and a 36’ Contender with triple 300s for high-speed offshore runs.
This range of vessels allows anglers to experience everything Islamorada is famous for—from stalking bonefish, tarpon, and permit on crystal-clear flats, to exploring the mangrove backcountry for snook and redfish, to running 40 miles offshore for mahi-mahi or swordfish. Whatever your target species or preferred fishing style, Captain TJ has the perfect boat and local expertise to make your day on the water unforgettable.
Hewes 18’
This vessel is ideally suited for our backcountry fishing trips, offering both shallow-water accessibility and the range needed to explore distant fishing spots. Powered by a reliable 150hp Yamaha outboard, it allows us to safely and efficiently cover long distances in pursuit of a hot bite. Its shallow draft makes it perfect for navigating the flats, creeks, and channels where species like snook, redfish, and tarpon thrive. In addition to backcountry fishing, we also utilize this boat for seasonal lobster bully netting as well as freshwater excursions targeting peacock bass in the scenic canals of South Florida.
Contender 36'
Our 36’ Contender, powered by triple 300hp Mercury outboards, is the ultimate platform for offshore fishing charters in Islamorada. Built for speed, range, and comfort, this vessel can quickly reach prime fishing grounds 30+ miles offshore, where mahi-mahi, swordfish, tuna, and other pelagic species roam. Its hull offers a smooth, stable ride even in choppy seas, while ample deck space and top-tier electronics give anglers every advantage in locating and landing big fish. Whether trolling weed lines for mahi-mahi or deep-dropping in 1,500 feet of water for daytime swordfish, this boat is designed to get you there fast, fish efficiently, and return safely with memories that will last a lifetime.
Grand Slam 17'
The 17’ Grand Slam technical poling skiff is purpose-built for flats fishing charters in Islamorada, where stealth and precision are key. With its ultra-shallow draft, this skiff can quietly access pristine flats and backcountry waters that larger boats can’t reach, putting anglers within casting distance of bonefish, permit, and tarpon in their natural habitat. The poling platform allows the captain to maneuver silently, giving you the best possible shot at wary fish in crystal-clear water. Ideal for both fly anglers and light-tackle enthusiasts, this skiff delivers a true sight-fishing experience in one of the most iconic shallow-water fisheries in the world.
