Team

Captain Taylor Haynes was raised on Little Gasparilla Island and has spent his entire life fishing the waters surrounding Boca Grande. With thousands of hours of commercial fishing experience, including selling bait to local captains and working as a mate, Taylor has developed an unmatched understanding of the area’s fisheries and estuaries.

His patience and passion for teaching set him apart—Taylor takes the time to make sure every guest learns the fundamentals of fishing while having a great experience on the water. When others struggle to even find bait, Taylor knows exactly where the fish are. He is a U.S. Coast Guard–licensed captain and a true professional who prides himself on delivering exceptional charters

Captain Chad Gist grew up in Englewood and spent much of his childhood on Boca Grande, Useppa Island, and Cabbage Key. His first job was as a dockhand at Miller’s Marina, where he was immersed in the local fishing culture from an early age.

After spending many years in corporate America while raising his family, Chad always found his way back to Englewood to fish and enjoy the Southwest Florida lifestyle. Gasparilla Guide Service was born from his desire to share the same “old-school” fishing experience he grew up with — simple, authentic, and memorable. Chad is a U.S. Coast Guard–licensed captain and a proud member of the Boca Grande Fishing Guides Association.