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McKenzie Charter Co. is led by Captain Wills McKenzie, a Port Charlotte captain who combines experience, local insight, and a calm, dialed-in approach on the water. Choose a half-day or full-day trip, inshore or nearshore, and expect a smooth, well-equipped outing focused on great fishing, great company, and the kind of catches you’ll talk about long after you’re back at the dock.

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The McKenzie Charter Co. Experience

Meet Captain McKenzie

McKenzie Charter Co. is led by Captain Wills McKenzie, a lifelong local who’s known these waters since youth—and it shows the moment you leave the dock. From Charlotte Harbor to Boca Grande Pass, Captain Wills brings a steady, knowledgeable approach that keeps the day smooth, comfortable, and focused on what you’re here for: great fishing, great company, and a true Florida on-the-water experience.

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Choose your adventure

Choose the trip that fits your day—whether you’re after fast-paced action or a quiet, unhurried ride on the water. Captain Wills will tailor the plan to conditions and your group’s goals, then put you in the best position for a memorable catch. All trips include the essentials, so you can simply show up, settle in, and enjoy.

All trips include gear, tackle, bait, and fishing licenses for up to 4 anglers.

Perfect for a fun, high-energy outing without committing the whole day. Fish the harbor and nearby waters for local favorites like Snook and Mangrove Snapper—great for families, first-timers, and anyone looking for action on a shorter schedule.

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4-Hour Inshore

The full inshore experience. With extra time on the water, Captain Wills can dial in patterns, move with the bite, and keep the day unhurried—great for anglers who want to maximize chances and enjoy the ride.

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8-Hour Inshore

More range, more variety, more opportunity. This trip is ideal if you want extra time to explore productive water, adjust to conditions, and settle into a steady rhythm—equal parts exciting and relaxing.

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6-Hour Nearshore

If you’re after a true Florida bucket-list fish, book a tarpon trip. Captain Wills targets the right windows and waters for your best shot at the kind of fight you’ll remember for years.

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Tarpon Charter (Seasonal)

Your Boat: Comfortable, Capable, Ready to Fish

You’ll be fishing aboard a 23’ Dorado 23 LE Bay boat—a comfortable platform built for the waters around Punta Gorda. Outfitted with quality electronics and fishing amenities, it’s ideal for inshore days in the harbor or heading out for bigger opportunities nearshore.

What You Can Catch +
How You’ll Fish

Depending on the season and conditions, you may target local favorites like Snook, Mangrove Snapper, Ladyfish, and more—using proven techniques like bottom fishing, drifting, trolling, and other approaches Captain Wills recommends that day. Want to chase something legendary? Tarpon trips are also available.

Everything’s Included—Just Show Up and Enjoy

Your charter is designed to feel effortless. Captain Wills provides the gear, tackle, and required fishing licenses—plus the details that make the day easy from start to finish.

Included with your trip:

Rods, reels, tackle, lures, and live bait (plus a live bait well)
GPS, fishfinder, and radar for a dialed-in day on the water
Ice box / cooler with drinks (bring your own snacks and food)
Catch cleaning and filleting at the end of the trip
Option to keep your catch or release it
Pickup/transfer from Punta Gorda hotels or jetties to the departure site (included in rates)
Comfortable charters for up to 4 anglers