Man on a Mission

A Little Something About Me

I am Steven Swindal, an expert angler, and licensed captain. As a fishing guide at Florida Raised Fishing in the United States, the most fulfilling aspect of the job for me is seeing my guests. Usually, a group of family members or friends have huge smiles on their faces after a day’s workout fishing. It fills my chest with warmth whenever I watch them have that sense of accomplishment once they have reeled in a good catch, like bass, especially one they did not expect.

Having been born and raised in Tampa Bay, I am confident to say that I know the place like the back of my hand. Working as a fishing guide for the past 10 years in this area, I make it my personal mission to give my guests a safe and enjoyable fishing experience that they will never forget.

What I Like About Fishing

One of my favorite memories as an angler took place when I was a teenager. My best friend and I decided to go shark fishing night. I was the one who maneuvered the kayak, and when we were already at our chosen spot, I dropped the huge piece of cut bait I had brought. Afterward, I paddled back to land and waited for a hit. After a while, I felt a strong tug on my rod, and it was a force I could not stop or control. With a speed as fast as lightning, I hopped back on my kayak and went on a chase. And boy, was it one heck of a chase. After an hour, I finally landed a whopping 600-pound goliath grouper. In a kayak, no less!

That one moment of so much raw energy where I felt that I was in my element really stuck with me, and years later, I found myself still in love with fishing and even went so far as to make it my profession. It is the rush and thrill of not knowing the thing you will find on the other end of the line that keeps me coming back to the waters, and that same joy is something I want to share with my guests.

As a member of the Coastal Conservation Association (CCA), I also emphasize to them just how important it is to contribute to conservation efforts for the source of joy itself. 

My Life Above the Waters

When I am not out fishing, you will most likely find me on a baseball diamond coaching my son’s travel baseball team. It’s a perfect way to spend quality time with them as well as a form of exercise. I love spending time with my family, so whenever my time permits, I make sure to give them as much attention as I can and make visits to my other relatives.

At times, I also cook for them. My favorite way to cook a catch is simple. I cut the fish into thick squares, mixed them in a bag of Louisiana Lemon Pepper and Louisiana Cajun, then proceeded to fry them in peanut oil. It’s a fool-proof recipe and one I love to share with my family and friends, especially on weekend hangouts. 

I enjoy spending time with my family, so when I am not offering my service as a guide, I make sure that I give them as much attention as I can. I want them to see and feel me as a constant part of their lives.

For your next fishing trip around the waters of Florida, you can find us on Facebook and book a trip with us here.