Next AvailableMay 18
Book with Fabian Santos Jr
Gulf Coast Backcountry Charters
Identity Verified Crystal River FL
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Fabian Santos Jr, Captain at Gulf Coast Backcountry Charters
Identity Verified
Are you looking for a thrilling fishing area adventure in Florida? Look no further than Gulf Coast Backcountry Charters, guided by Captain Fabian Santos Jr. Explore the best backcountry fishing creeks and pristine grass flats of Crystal River with a local guide who has been fishing for over 30 years.Captain Fabian's passion for fishing and love for teaching others has led him to become a full-time guide since 2015.
With his expertise, he strives to be one of the top Fly Fishing and light tackle guide services in the Nature Coast and Big Bend region. Get ready to create unforgettable memories on the water with Gulf Coast Backcountry Charters. During your trip, expect to encounter various species such as Redfish, Snook, Seatrout, Black Drum, and Tarpons during their season. The Captain will teach you the best techniques on light tackle and Fly Fishing, and all fishing equipment will be provided, along with necessary fishing licenses. The crew will even clean and fillet your catch, so you can take them home fresh.
Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, manatees, and a variety of bird species that call the area home. Captain Fabian's extensive knowledge of the local ecosystem will enhance your appreciation and understanding of the region's natural beauty. Gulf Coast Backcountry Charters offers flexible trip durations, ranging from 5 to 8 hours, depending on your preferences. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced angler, the Captain will tailor the trip to your skill level and interests. You can choose to focus on one type of fishing or explore different techniques and locations throughout the day.
Explore the waters with the '17 Ankona Skiff boat, equipped with a shallow draft, trolling motor, and sight casting platform. The vessel can easily maneuver you from the shallowest parts up to the deeper portions of the creeks, and you'll have a cooler and live bait tank to keep your catch fresh. Families with children are welcome to join the adventure as the Captain loves to host them on board. You may also bring your own fly rods, flies, or other fishing gear if you prefer. Book a Charter with Gulf Coast Backcountry Charters now and get ready for an amazing fishing adventure in Florida. Booking a charter with Gulf Coast Backcountry Charters is easy and hassle-free.
Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience the best coastal backcountry fishing excursion around – book your Gulf Coast Backcountry Charter now!
Upcoming Availability
Expertise & Attributes
fishing
Fly Fishing
Good with Families
Good with Kids
Good with New Anglers
I Tie My Own Flies
Live Bait
Saltwater Fishing
Technical FishingFishing Techniques
What's Included
Transportation
Transportation to and from the trip location.
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Good to Knows
Your Guide has some important details about your trip with them.
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Nature / Wildlife Views
This guide offers trips with nature and wildlife views.
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Cancellation Policy
When you book your fishing trip, you will need to first put down a deposit to hold the reservation.
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What's Included
Transportation
Transportation to and from the trip location.
Show More
Good to Knows
Your Guide has some important details about your trip with them.
Show More
Nature / Wildlife Views
This guide offers trips with nature and wildlife views.
Show More
Cancellation Policy
When you book your fishing trip, you will need to first put down a deposit to hold the reservation.
Show More
Trips Available with Gulf Coast Backcountry Charters
Fishing
Starting At $550
Crystal River Fishing Charters
Fishing Area: Crystal River
Fishing: BackCountry
Fishing Boat:
Maverick HPX S • 17' Maverick • Max 2 guests (base trip price includes 2 guests)Description: Embark on an unforgettable backcountry fly fishing adventure in Crystal River with Gulf Coast Backcountry Charters. Spend your day exploring the mangrove creeks of the Nature Coast and targeting Snook, Redfish, Sea Trout, and Black Drum. All licenses, gear, and personally tied flies are included in the trip. Captain Fabian Santos Jr, an experienced and passionate local guide, will teach you the best techniques for light tackle and Fly Fishing. The trip can be tailored to your skill level and interests. You'll encounter a variety of fish species in their natural habitat. Book your trip now!
Fishing
Starting At $500
Crystal River Florida Fishing Charters
Fishing Area: Crystal River
Fishing: Inshore
Fishing Boat:
Maverick HPX S • 17' Maverick • Max 2 guests (base trip price includes 2 guests)Description: Join Gulf Coast Backcountry Charters for an unforgettable backcountry fishing experience in Crystal River, Florida. Choose from a 5-hour or 8-hour fishing trip and use light tackle, artificial, to target Redfish, Snook, Sea Trout, Black Drum, and more in the best fishing area. With everything included in the price, all you have to do is focus on what matters most: fishing! Book your trip now and get ready for an exciting fishing adventure with Gulf Coast Backcountry Charters. The adventure awaits - book now for an unforgettable experience!
Fishing
Starting At $750
Homosassa Fishing Guide
Fishing Area: Crystal River
Fishing: Inshore
Fishing Boat:
Maverick HPX S • 17' Maverick • Max 2 guests (base trip price includes 2 guests)Description: Join us on a seasonal trip of a lifetime and face the world-famous Tarpon in Homosassa, Florida. Known for holding the record of big Tarpon on fly, this is a challenge you won't want to miss. Enjoy 10 hours of fly fishing in one of the best Tarpon fisheries while everything you need is taken care of - fly fishing gear, flies, and lunch are included. Experienced anglers looking for a challenge and beginners eager to learn from experienced guides are both welcome. Our local experts will guide you to the best spots and teach you the best techniques for fly fishing. Book your trip today!
Vehicles
Ankona Cayenne
Boat Type:
Boat Guest Capacity:
3
Boat Length:
17 ft
Manufacturer Name:
Skiff
Model Year:
2016
Engine Manufacturer Name:
Tohatsu
# of Engines:
1
Horsepower Per Engine:
60
Maximum Cruising Speed:
40
Features: Bait Tank Ice-Box Trolling Motor
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Maverick HPX S
Boat Type:
Boat Guest Capacity:
3
Boat Length:
17 ft
Manufacturer Name:
Maverick
Model Year:
2018
Engine Manufacturer Name:
Yamaha
# of Engines:
1
Horsepower Per Engine:
70
Maximum Cruising Speed:
40
Features: Bait Tank GPS
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The 2018 17 Maverick HPX S is a powerful boat with a 70HP Yamaha engine, capable of reaching speeds of up to 40 knots. It has a maximum capacity of 3 people, making it the perfect vessel for a small group looking for the ultimate backcountry experience
Carolina Skiff
Boat Type:
Boat Guest Capacity:
4
Boat Length:
20 ft
Manufacturer Name:
Carolina Skiff
Model Year:
1990
Engine Manufacturer Name:
Evenrude
# of Engines:
1
Horsepower Per Engine:
90
Maximum Cruising Speed:
35
Features: Bait Tank Snorkelling Equipment Fish Finder GPS
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Boats
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Ankona Cayenne
Boat Type:
Boat Guest Capacity:
3
Boat Length:
17 ft
Vehicle Details
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Maverick HPX S
Boat Type:
Boat Guest Capacity:
3
Boat Length:
17 ft
Vehicle Details
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Carolina Skiff
Boat Type:
Boat Guest Capacity:
4
Boat Length:
20 ft
Vehicle Details
FAQs about Gulf Coast Backcountry Charters
What are the trip rates for Gulf Coast Backcountry Charters?
What's included in the trip price with Gulf Coast Backcountry Charters?
What types of fishing does Gulf Coast Backcountry Charters offer?
What fishing techniques does Gulf Coast Backcountry Charters offer?
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What is the cancellation policy for Gulf Coast Backcountry Charters?
Reports and Expert Articles
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Tarpon Fishing Soon!
Counting down the days to My absolute favorite time of year. It's a time when the crystal clear waters of Florida's Gulf Coast come alive with the silver kings, and the thrill of the chase is unparalleled. Tarpon fishing season is coming near. #tarpononfly #smithoptics #homosassafl
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Negative Tides
with the winter months comes cold water, negative tides, and clean water, which can make for some amazing backcountry, shallow water sightfishing for Redfish, Trout, sheepheads, Snook. the nature coast produces some of the best winter time fishing on the gulf coast of Fl.
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Crystal River Fishing Report
Ending the year with some good reds in the backcountry creeks. water temps will continue to stay cold, and have the fish push back deep in the backcountry. the fishing only gets better from here on through the winter months.
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Fishing in Crystal River, FL
Last minute afternoon adventure in the backyard again playing with snook, and reds
Ratings & Reviews Summary
May 18, 2025
Highly recommend booking a trip with Captain Santos! My friend and I recently booked a morning trip with him and had an awesome experience. He has a beautiful new Maverick poling skiff that allowed him to take us in some narrow creeks where we caught some nice redfish. Capt. Santos also has plenty of patience for people that are not fishing pros. He coached me along throughout the day giving me advice and tips to help me catch the next fish. We are definitely looking forward to our next trip with him!
May 18, 2025
Captain Santos ("Jr.") was a great guide. He worked so hard in very tough conditions to put us on some great fish including nice snook and redfish on top water. He is a dedicated and hard core light tackle and fly flats fisherman in the classic tradition! The area around Ozello is amazing, unspoiled water. He also is a blast to be with, with a fun relaxed personality. Highly recommend!
