Meet Captain Ethan Hamrick

Captain Ethan Hamrick is a United States Coast Guard licensed captain who has spent his entire life immersed in the unique aquatic ecosystems of the Tampa Bay area. Born and raised on these local waters, Ethan’s journey from a young child with a rod in his hand to a professional guide was fueled by a genuine obsession with the Florida coast. Over the years, he has logged countless hours navigating the intricate flats of Clearwater Bay and the unpredictable Gulf nearshore waters, developing an intuitive understanding of fish migrations, tidal patterns, and the subtle shifts that dictate a successful day on the water.

While his roots are firmly planted in Clearwater, Ethan’s expertise extends across the most iconic fishing destinations in the state, including the high-energy Atlantic waters of Palm Beach and the backcountry of the Florida Keys. This broad perspective allows him to bring a sophisticated level of strategy to every private fishing charter Clearwater anglers embark on. Beyond his technical skill, Ethan is a teacher at heart. He finds his greatest professional fulfillment in sharing his knowledge with others, whether he is helping a veteran angler refine their casting technique or guiding a novice through their very first hook-set.

Trust and safety are the cornerstones of Captain Ethan’s operation, particularly when it comes to hosting families. Having transformed his lifelong passion into Wish Upon A Fish, he has dedicated himself to creating a patient, welcoming environment where kids can fall in love with the sport. He understands that a day on the water is about more than just the harvest; it is about the stories told and the confidence built. When you step onto his boat, you are under the care of a captain who prioritizes your comfort and success, ensuring that every guest—regardless of age or experience—feels like a pro by the time they return to the dock.

The Vessel: A 22’ Tidewater Engineered for Performance

Your adventure takes place aboard a meticulously maintained 22’ Tidewater bay boat, a vessel specifically chosen for its versatility and stability in Florida’s coastal environments. Engineered to navigate both shallow inshore flats and choppy nearshore swells, the boat features a specialized hull design that ensures a smooth, dry ride for up to six passengers. To provide a competitive edge, the vessel is outfitted with professional-grade technology, including a silent trolling motor for stalking Snook in the mangroves and a Power-Pole for precision anchoring. A large T-top provides essential relief from the Florida sun, while the spacious deck offers ample room for multiple anglers to cast simultaneously. Whether we are targeting Redfish in the backcountry or King Mackerel a few miles out, this boat serves as the ultimate high-performance platform for your day on the water.