Meet Captain Jonathan Porter

Lifelong Local Florida Keys Guide

Captain Jonathan Porter is a lifelong resident of the Florida Keys whose roots in the Islamorada community run as deep as the local channels. Growing up in these world-renowned waters, he developed a profound understanding of the complex marine ecosystems that make the region the "Sportfishing Capital of the World". His journey from a young angler at Wanchese Marina to a professional guide was driven by a genuine passion for the outdoors and a desire to share the unique beauty of his home with others. This lifetime of local immersion allows him to navigate the shifting tides and seasonal patterns of the keys with an intuition that only comes from decades on the water.

Known for his calm demeanor and exceptional hospitality, Jonathan prioritizes the experience of his guests above all else. He believes that a great day of fishing is defined not just by the catch, but by the knowledge shared and the memories made along the way. Whether he is teaching a child the basics of casting on a kid friendly fishing charter in Islamorada or discussing technical flats strategies with a seasoned pro, his patient and educational approach builds immediate trust. Guests often find that his local stories and insights into the history of the islands add a layer of depth to their trip that goes far beyond a standard fishing excursion.

Jonathan’s expertise spans the full spectrum of local angling, from the stealthy pursuit of Snook and Redfish in the backcountry to targeting Snapper and Grouper on the vibrant coral reefs. His dedication to the craft is evident in his meticulous preparation and his ability to adapt to real-time conditions to keep the rods bent throughout the day. By combining his professional SEO background with his maritime skills, he maintains a modern, high-standard service that is both reliable and deeply rooted in traditional Florida Keys angling values. When you step onto his boat, you are fishing with a guide who truly knows these waters inside and out.

The 17' Hoog Flats Boat

The vessel for your adventure is a 17' Hoog flats boat, a classic design celebrated for its stability and versatility in the diverse environments of Islamorada. This boat is specifically engineered to navigate the skinniest backcountry waters where trophy Snook and Redfish hide, yet it remains steady and comfortable for nearshore reef trips. It features a clean, open layout that provides ample room for up to four passengers to fish without feeling crowded. Equipped with high-quality gear, modern navigational tools, and all necessary safety equipment, the boat serves as a reliable platform for everything from a focused morning of light-tackle angling to a relaxing private sunset cruise in Islamorada.

Lazy Boy Charter Available Trips

WHAT'S INCLUDED

Expertise & Attributes

3 Years of Experience

fishing Attributes

Nature / Wildlife Views

Saltwater Fishing

Live Bait

Technical Fishing

Good with New Anglers

Good with Families

Gear & Equipment

Available Fishing Gear

Live Bait

Lures

Reels

Rods

Good to Knows

Your Adventure Guide: What’s Included & What to Bring

To ensure your day on the water is as smooth as possible, Captain Jonathan handles the heavy lifting so you can focus on the fishing. Here is a detailed breakdown of what to expect when you step aboard Lazy Boy Charter.

What’s Included in Your Trip

We believe in a "show up and fish" experience. Your booking fee covers all the essentials required for a successful day in the Florida Keys.

Licensing & Permits: No need to buy a separate Florida saltwater fishing license; you are fully covered under our vessel’s commercial permit.

Top-Tier Gear: We provide high-quality rods, reels, and all the tackle (hooks, leaders, and weights) suited for your specific target species.

Bait & Lures: Whether we’re using live bait for Snook or specialized lures for Yellowtail, all bait is included and rigged by the Captain.

Catch Cleaning & Filleting: At the end of the day, Captain Jonathan will professionally clean and bag your catch so it’s ready for the kitchen.

Cooler & Ice: We provide plenty of ice and a dedicated cooler to keep your catches fresh and your personal drinks cold.

Safety Equipment: Our 17' Hoog is fully equipped with USCG-approved life jackets (including sizes for children and toddlers) and all necessary safety gear.

What You Should Bring

While we provide the tools, a few personal items will make your day much more comfortable under the Florida sun.

1. Sun Protection (Essential)

The reflection off the water can be intense.

Polarized Sunglasses: These are a "must-have" to see through the surface glare and spot fish in the shallows.

Sunscreen: Please bring non-spray (lotion) sunscreen. Spray-on versions can make the deck slippery and may damage the boat's finish.

Hat & Protective Clothing: A wide-brimmed hat and lightweight, long-sleeve performance shirts (UPF rated) are highly recommended.

2. Food & Drink

Your Favorite Refreshments: We provide water and ice, but feel free to bring sodas, Gatorade, or other preferred drinks.

Lunch & Snacks: For longer trips, pack sandwiches, wraps, or easy-to-eat snacks like granola bars and fruit.

Alcohol Policy: Moderate amounts of beer or wine are welcome. However, we strictly prohibit hard liquor and glass bottles for safety reasons.

3. Personal Items

Footwear: Wear non-marking, rubber-soled deck shoes or sandals. Please avoid black-soled shoes that scuff the deck.

Camera/Phone: You’ll want to capture those "first catch" moments and the stunning Islamorada scenery.

Small Dry Bag: Great for keeping your keys, wallet, and phone dry while on the move.

Motion Sickness Meds: If you are prone to seasickness, we recommend taking your preferred medication about an hour before we leave the dock.

Pro-Tip for Your Catch

If you plan on taking your fillets home, we recommend leaving a travel cooler in your vehicle. Once we clean your fish at the dock, you can transfer them to your personal cooler for the drive home!

DEPOSIT: A deposit is required for all bookings and will be applied at checkout

BALANCE: The remaining balance is due on the trip date as either Credit or Cash.

GUEST CANCELLATION: In the event that you must cancel your booking, you must do so 14 days prior to your trip date to receive a refund on your deposit. Rescheduling is encouraged and dependent on guide availability.

GUIDE CANCELLATION: In the rare event that your guide must cancel due to inclement weather, health, or equipment issues, you will have the option to reschedule your charter for a later date or receive a refund on your deposit.

TIPPING: Tips to your guide are greatly appreciated for your quality trip.

BOAT

Lazy Boy

Boat Type: Motorboat (engine-powered)

Boat Guest Capacity: 3

Boat Length: 17

Manufacturer Name: Hoog

Model Year: 1992

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 130

Maximum Cruising Speed: 23

Boat Registration: Not Given

Features: GPS, Ice-Box, Livewell / Live Bait Tank