The Captain.
“The charm of fishing is that it is the pursuit of what is elusive but attainable, a perpetual series of occasions for hope.” ―John Buchan
Meet the CAPTAIN
When you step aboard Florida Saltwater Fishing Charters, you’re fishing with a U.S. Coast Guard-licensed and fully insured professional who takes every detail seriously — from safety to success. Captain Eric McPherson’s responsibility isn’t just to drive the boat — it’s to deliver a complete, professional experience that’s safe, efficient, and focused on results.
He’s part teacher, part entertainer, and all fisherman, with a knack for making everyone on board feel like they’ve been fishing together for years.
Eric is a licensed U.S. Coast Guard master captain and co-founder of The Florida Saltwater Fishing Expo, where he works to connect anglers, captains, and coastal brands from across the world. He is engaged to his marketing director (so you better compliment this website when you see him!).
But titles aside, what makes Eric different is simple: he’s a natural teacher. Whether you’re casting for your first redfish or fine-tuning your presentation for snook, he has a gift for making complex things easy — and fun. He’s the kind of guy who can effortlessly explain tide patterns, spot structure, and make you laugh all in the same sentence.
When he’s not running charters, you’ll probably find him on the mic — literally. Eric will sing, DJ, and keep a crowd entertained almost as easily as he can get on the fish. That mix of energy, humor, and knowledge makes every trip feel like a day with a good friend who just happens to know everything about fishing.
He’s fished these waters for years — from Mosquito Lagoon to Ponce Inlet — and built a reputation for being one of the most prepared, passionate, and down-to-earth captains around. You’ll hear him before you see him — that deep, unmistakable voice carries across the dock — usually laughing, talking fishing, or helping another captain get underway.
What truly sets him apart, though, is his respect — for the fish, the water, and the lifestyle that surrounds them. He treats every day on the water as a privilege and every fish as part of the bigger picture. That respect shows in how he runs his charters: professional, intentional, and always mindful of preserving what makes Florida’s waters so special.
“I want people to leave my boat knowing why the fish did what they did — not just that we caught them.” — Captain Eric Lee
Every trip with Captain Eric is equal parts education, adventure, and entertainment.
You’ll fish hard, learn fast, and probably leave with a story worth retelling — and a song stuck in your head.
What You Can Expect
When you step aboard Florida Fishing Charters, you’re fishing with a U.S. Coast Guard-licensed and fully insured professional who takes every detail seriously — from safety to success.
Captain Eric McPherson’s responsibility isn’t just to drive the boat or filet fish — it’s to deliver a complete, professional experience that’s safe, efficient, and focused on results.
Credentials & Highlights
U.S. Coast Guard Master Captian
Licensed & Insured
Co-Founder of The Florida Saltwater Fishing Expo
Experienced tournament angler and instructor
Lifelong outdoorsman passionate about preserving Florida waterways
Mango, First Mate
Don’t let the size fool you — Mango, a 3-year-old Mini Australian Shepherd, runs a tight ship. She gets her name from the Mangrove Snapper and she takes her role as First Mate very seriously, keeping a close eye on bait buckets, snacks, and anyone who looks like they might drop a sandwich. When she’s not supervising deck operations, she’s usually spotted sunbathing on the bow or striking a pose for the camera.
“She thinks every trip is her trip — and honestly, she’s not wrong.” - Captian Eric
Cuda, First Mate (in training )
At just one year old, Cuda is still learning the ropes — and occasionally the fishing lines. He’s eager, energetic, and convinced that every piece of ice on the boat is his to eat. While he hasn’t quite mastered “stay,” he’s nailed “ice” and “swim.” Cuda’s biggest goal for this season? To one day make friends with dolphins and be promoted from First Mate in Training to Assistant Snack Inspector. You may not see Cuda as often as you see Mango until he can find his sea legs!
“He thinks the live well is his personal pool and the cooler is his bowl.” - Captian Eric
