Meet the Captain

Zookeeper Charters

Captain Richard Ladrew

Captain Richard Ladrew grew up less than two miles from Sebastian Inlet, surfing and fishing these waters since he was two years old. The inlet isn't just where he works. It's where he was raised. That lifelong connection is what makes him the guide he is today: a licensed and insured U.S. Coast Guard near-coastal master captain running private charters aboard a fully loaded 26' Avenger Bay boat.

Richard wasn't always a fishing guide. He grew up living everything the coast has to offer: surfing, fishing, exploring the inlet, and spending as much time on and near the water as possible. Fishing was always a big part of that life, and over the years he built a deep knowledge of these waters simply by being out on them constantly. When he made the jump to guiding full-time, teaching became just as important as catching. He's earned a reputation as one of the most patient, humble, and kid-friendly captains in the area, and he takes as much pride in helping a first-timer land their first fish as he does putting an experienced angler on a trophy.

Every trip is tailored to the conditions and the group. Captain Richard reads the tides, wind, and seasonal patterns to maximize every outing. Whether you're chasing snook on a strong outgoing tide, exploring sandbars with the family, or heading nearshore for something bigger, he puts you in the right place at the right time. All gear and tackle is provided, and you don't need any experience to have a great day on the water.

More than anything, Richard is grateful for what he gets to do. Seeing a kid hold up their first fish, or a family discover a new favorite thing to do together, is what drives him. When you book with Captain Richard, you get 110% every time.