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Captain Rich Smith

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Meet Captain Rich Smith – Your Florida Keys Fishing Guide

Captain Rich Smith is a true South Florida native—born and raised with saltwater in his veins and a fishing rod never far from his hands. Over a lifetime on the water, he has built a deep knowledge of the Florida Keys’ diverse marine life, ever-changing tides, and the rich “Old Florida” history that still lingers along its shores.

Rich’s passion for fishing began in childhood, learning the ropes from his dad. Together they fished anywhere they could—bridges, canals, beaches, or boats. For them, it was never just about the size of the catch; it was about the shared adventure, the salty breeze, and the kind of unforgettable memories only made on the water.

A Full-Time Florida Keys Fishing Captain

Today, Captain Rich guides nearly 300 fishing trips a year, covering waters from Miami to Key West. Based out of Duck Key in the Middle Florida Keys, he’s uniquely positioned to access both the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico.

With several boats at his disposal, Rich is able to fish inshore and offshore. Whether that means chasing tarpon under iconic bridges, hunting Mahi and Tuna on offshore weed lines, or working patch reefs for snapper and grouper, there is always something to catch.

Patient Teacher & Skilled Angler

Rich prides himself on being patient and approachable, making him a great choice for anglers of all skill levels—from first-timers to seasoned pros. He enjoys teaching new techniques, explaining the “why” behind every move, and helping guests become better fishermen and women.

“For me, fishing has always been something I love. I live for those car rides home where everyone’s got that little grin—speechless because they can’t believe what just happened out on the water earlier that day.”

Captain Rich Smith : Television Appearances

Addictive Fishing Television Show: Biscayne Bay Bonefish

Captain Rich Smith Addictive Fishing

In 2006, I appeared on the popular Addictive Fishing television show for an action-packed day in Miami’s Biscayne Bay. We targeted the lightning-fast bonefish on the flats and the hard-hitting snook along mangrove edges. With the cameras rolling, every strike and blistering run captured the beauty and excitement of this world-class fishery.To Watch a Clip Click Here

Sport Fishing Television Show: Everglades Magic With Flip Pallot

Captain Rich Smith Sport Fishing TV

I had the incredible opportunity to guide Flip Pallot and Mike Mazur from Fly Fishing in Saltwaters Magazine on an unforgettable trip into the Florida Everglades.

Flip is a true legend in the fishing world—best known as the longtime host of the iconic Walker’s Cay Chronicles television show. On this trip, he was stepping in as guest host for Sport Fishing Television.

The day was nothing short of spectacular. We tangled with tarpon, battled snook, and landed several other exciting species—using both fly rods and spin tackle. Between the epic fishing and the company of two passionate anglers, it was a day that perfectly captured the magic of the Everglades.

Addictive Fishing Television Show: Everglades Snook Fishing

Addictive Fishing Everglades

Host Capt. Blair Wiggins returned for his second trip with us to film an episode of Everglades snook fishing out of Flamingo. This time, we focused on working light tackle spinning rods rigged with DOA Shrimp—a deadly combination for coaxing big snook out from the shadowy edges of the mangroves.

Fishing with Blair is always a blast. Between the exciting hookups, the incredible Everglades scenery, and plenty of laughs along the way, we had another unforgettable day on the water—and some fantastic footage to show for it.

To watch the video click here

Bass 2 Billfish Television Show: Ryan’s Wish – Everglades Snook

Bass2Billfish 1 copy

Host Peter Miller, along with Chrissy Wejebe from the Spanish Fly Foundation and the Make-A-Wish Foundation, teamed up to grant a very special wish—giving Ryan the chance to fish in the Florida Keys.

We set out on an unforgettable journey into the backcountry of the Everglades, chasing snook, tarpon, redfish, and anything else the day’s tides and currents might bring. It was more than just a fishing trip—it was a day filled with excitement, inspiration, and the pure joy of making a dream come true on the water.

To Watch Click Here

Bass 2 Billfish Television Show: Florida Keys Shark & Grouper

Bass2Billfish Shark copy

Peter Miller returned for his second fishing adventure with me in Marathon, Florida, and this trip was all about big, hard-fighting fish. Launching out of Hawk’s Cay Resort, we went after Goliath grouper, sharks, jacks, and lightning-fast barracuda—each one delivering explosive action and unforgettable battles.

It all came together to create one incredible show, packed with heart-pounding strikes, screaming reels, and the kind of fishing moments that keep you coming back for more.

To Watch Click Here

NBC’s Today Show Segment With River Monster’s Tv Show

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The Discovery Channel crew, along with Jeremy Wade, host of the hit TV series River Monsters, traveled to Islamorada in the Florida Keys to film an exciting 8-minute segment titled “A Day in the Life of Jeremy Wade in Search of River Monsters.”

Our adventure took us deep into the Florida Bay backcountry behind Islamorada, where we targeted a variety of hard-fighting species. Between the stunning scenery, the thrill of the chase, and Jeremy’s unmatched passion for fishing, it was a day that perfectly captured the essence of exploring for “river monsters” in saltwater territory.