What’s the Catch? A Look at My Charter Style

Published: December 10, 2013

Updated: November 3, 2026

Read Time: 2 minutes

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Florida Keys Snapper

From the archives: This article describes the business, services and December fishing conditions as they were at the time of writing. Offerings, conditions and regulations may have changed; confirm current details before booking.

A hands-on day on the water

When I wrote this, I wanted to explain what guests could expect from Florida Keys Reel Adventures. I ran a one-person operation on a mid-sized boat and built trips around a wide range of water activities and experience levels. My goal was to guide and teach you while you took an active part in the adventure, whether we were fishing or lobstering.

Some activities and trip formats were outside my service at the time. I didn’t offer scuba charters or coordinated split trips, and flats fishing was still in development. Those details are historical, so please check the current charter information or contact me to confirm what’s available today.

Weather is part of the decision. I may need to cancel when conditions aren’t suitable, and a trip that can work for one group may not be right for another. I’d rather talk through the options and find a reasonable plan than take guests out when the conditions are unlikely to make for an enjoyable day.

My approach is hands-on: I guide and teach, and guests take part in the work. Learning, challenges, surprises and successes all become part of the experience. It’s a different style from a trip where a crew member does most of the fishing for you, and it may be a good fit if you want to be involved in your own adventure.

Archived December fishing notes

In the December report accompanying this article, I noted that fishing had been strong when the wind allowed us to get out. Shallow patch reefs were a reliable option in the conditions I was seeing, while other targets depended on the day. I also mentioned that grouper season was nearing its close under the regulations in effect then. Check current Florida regulations before planning a trip around any species or season.

If you’re considering a trip and want to know whether my current charter options suit your group, get in touch and we can talk it through.

Captain Kevin Johnsen holds up a mackerel

Captain Kevin Johnsen

Capt. Kevin Johnsen is a licensed USCG Master Captain and 40-year resident of Marathon, Florida. He runs Florida Keys Reel Adventures, offering hands-on fishing, spearfishing, snorkeling, and lobstering charters in the Middle Keys. When he's not on the water, he's probably thinking about being on the water.

Built for Adventure

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Whether you're fishing, snorkeling, or diving for lobster, Captain Kevin has meticulously set this boat up to be the ideal platform for your adventure. From the upgraded seating to the pristine condition of the vessel, every detail reflects Kevin's commitment to quality and his guests' comfort.