Meet Captain Robert McClinnis

Legendary Captain Robert McClinnis is more than just a fishing guide, he’s a storyteller, a teacher, and a lifelong outdoorsman whose name is known up and down Florida’s Forgotten Coast. With over two decades of full-time guiding experience and a reputation built on grit, skill, and Southern hospitality, Captain Robert has become a fixture in the world of Gulf Coast fishing,not because he set out to be famous, but because he set out to do what he loves: put people on fish and give them a damn good time doing it.

His journey to the helm began not in a classroom or marina, but with a single unforgettable fishing trip to the Florida Keys. On that trip, Robert jumped aboard a party boat and found himself helping a young teenager land a massive 40-inch lemon shark. That spark, watching someone’s face light up with excitement and pride, changed everything. It was the moment he realized his true passion wasn’t just catching fish, but sharing the magic of fishing with others.

Since 2005, Captain Robert has guided thousands of anglers through the pristine, uncrowded waters off St. Marks, Florida, a hidden gem where you can reach 80-foot depths offshore in under an hour and rarely see another boat. Born and raised locally, Robert brings unmatched authenticity and knowledge to every trip. He knows these waters like a second language, and he’s built his guiding style around patience, experience, and creating unforgettable moments for every guest, whether it’s their first cast or their five-hundredth.

His boat, a 24-foot Scout Bay boat, is a reflection of that same no-nonsense, results-driven mindset. Built in 2002 and powered by a 200-horsepower Yamaha engine, it cruises at up to 42 knots and is meticulously maintained. The boat’s shallow draft allows it to slip through inshore flats in pursuit of redfish, trout, and snook, while its strength and stability make it fully capable of handling offshore missions for grouper, snapper, cobia, and more. Outfitted with premium gear and all the necessary safety equipment, it’s the ideal platform for families, small groups, and serious anglers alike.

Captain Robert is known not just for what he catches, but also for how he guides. He teaches guests to fish with artificial lures, helping them understand water movement, bait behavior, and how to recognize the difference between a nibble and a real bite. His calm demeanor and friendly attitude make him a favorite among parents, kids, and first-time anglers, while seasoned fishermen respect his sharp instincts and deep knowledge of local waters.

From helping an 8-year-old wrestle in a 70-pound amberjack to guiding a family through a scalloping trip that feels like a treasure hunt, Captain Robert creates experiences that turn into lifelong memories. He offers a wide range of customizable trips, including half-day and 3⁄4-day fishing charters, kids’ first-catch outings, and scalloping adventures.

For Captain Robert McClinnis, fishing isn’t a job, it’s a way of life. Every time he pushes off from the dock, he brings the same fire, knowledge, and passion that launched his career and continues to define it today.

If you're looking to fish the Gulf Coast with someone who knows the waters, respects the craft, and lives for the moment when the line goes tight, you're in the right hands.

Captain Robert McClinnis: A local legend. A trusted guide. And the heart of Florida Gulf Coast Charter Fishing.