Capt. George LaBonte is an expert at catching fish and on the center-console boats we use to find them!
By John Brownlee
George LaBonte has been a full-time Jupiter, Florida fishing guide for 40 years. He also had a lengthy association with Florida Sportsman magazine, as that publication’s Boating Editor, the host of Best Boat TV for five seasons, and the host of their Project Dreamboat production for five seasons as well. He also authored the book “Sportsman’s Best Sailfish” and he hosted Florida Sportsman Radio Live on ESPN for 20 years. He’s currently gearing up a new TV show titled “Mission Boating” that will run on Waypoint TV, Instagram and YouTube. Suffice it to say, LaBonte knows boats!
Versatile Platforms
“One of the attributes of a center console that I find appealing is having a platform that offers so much versatility,” LaBonte said. “I’m currently running a 28-foot Whitewater, which does everything I ask of it and allows me lots of flexibility. Targeting the wide variety of species that we have locally available requires a vessel that can get into some tight spots and shallow water one day, and handle sloppy offshore conditions the next, all while keeping guests safe and comfortable.
“We fish mostly offshore for pelagic species like sailfish, wahoo, tuna, and dolphin, along with deep-dropping for swordfish and a multitude of bottom dwellers, from golden tilefish to barrelfish and others,” LaBonte continued. “Inshore, we chase tarpon, permit, cobia, and pompano. We offer a hands-on approach and try to help our guests become more knowledgeable while building their angling skills. I pride myself on trying new things and developing new techniques in uncommon fisheries. We welcome anglers willing to get outside of their comfort zone and take part in pioneering undiscovered country.” Capt. George LaBonte; edgesportfishing.com
