By John Brownlee
Of all the famous captains fishing day in and day out in a center console, there may be none better known than the Trosset family of Key West. Captain Robert ”RT” Trosset has been fishing Key West from a center console boat since 1974, and now his two sons, Robert III and Chris, have followed in his footsteps. All three are at the top of the game when it comes to providing quality experiences for their clients, and here’s some detail about each of their operations.
Capt. Robert “RT” Trosset, Spindrift Charters
RT is one of the most renowned light-tackle captains in the world, with 239 IGFA world records to his credit, and counting. He began his career in Key West fishing in a 17-foot Mako and has owned many different boats over the years, but he has fished a Yellowfin 39 for quite a few years now, a substantial upgrade.
After moving to Key West after college, Trosset quickly found an avid following among hardcore, light-tackle anglers in the Miami Beach Rod and Reel Club, as well as other serious world-record chasers. He was the first guide to lead anglers to over 100 world records. Trosset received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the International Gamefish Association (IGFA) and in 2019 was a recipient of the IGFA’s Tommy Gifford Legendary Captains Award.
RT delights when kids catch their first tarpon or a 96-year-old lands a permit on fly. He has had the unique opportunity to fish with some of the finest anglers from around the world and credits many legendary Key West captains with taking him under their wing and teaching him the basics of Florida Keys fishing.
Spindrift Charters
305-797-5693
spindriftfishing.com
Capt. Robert Trosset III, Finz Dive and Tackle
In 2011, Robert Trosset III found a niche in Key West that no one was servicing, and founded Finz Dive and Tackle, specializing in spearfishing and small SCUBA diving charters. Having worked in the dive industry for years Robert knew that people wanted more. More time underwater, more dive locations, more fish, and more fun!
Finz currently runs three boats with a wide variety of trips from simple two-tank reef and wreck dives to all day spearfishing adventures. He has a 34 Freeman, a Parker, and the Park Shark, built by Razorhead Boats of Louisiana. The most specialized trip Finz does is to the Dry Tortugas National Park. The trip includes a private guided tour of Fort Jefferson, followed by up to three dives inside the park.
While not a conventional center console, the Park Shark is the perfect vessel on which to experience the National Park on any time of the year. This aluminum 35-foot catamaran with an enclosed cabin and air conditioning provides a dry and comfortable ride. Cool in the summer and warm in the winter. It also has a Dometic DG3 Gyro Stabilizer that keeps the vessel calm and collected on the 70 mile ride each way.
“Our trips are custom tailored to each group that joins us,” Trosset said. “From novice to expert our small size lets us adapt and provide the best possible trip, not just some cookie cutter dive trip.”
Finz Dive and Tackle
305-395-0880
FinzDiveCenter.com
Capt. Chris Trosset, Reel Fly Charters
Captain Chris Trosset has spent his entire life immersed in the waters of Key West, Florida. With the Gulf of Mexico as his backyard, Chris has developed unmatched knowledge of the local waters, making him one of the most skilled captains in the region.
From an early age, Chris set a high standard for the next generation of anglers. His achievements include two Junior Master Angler titles and several tournament records, including a 51-pound swordfish caught on 20-pound test, a record that still stands. He also earned a 4th place finish at the Junior IGFA Fishing Tournament and was awarded the Men’s Master Angler title at just 16 years old, recognized for his fly-fishing skills and most tarpon released, many of which he caught after school in his beloved “Tarpon Pond.”
Chris has continued to excel in local tournaments, securing top placements in the Key West Marlin Tournament, Florida Keys Dolphin Championship, and the Key West Shell Challenge. His passion for fishing is undeniable. Whether catching bait for the next trip or locating the perfect wreck for tuna, he dedicates his free time to honing his craft. His expertise and top-of-the-line gear ensure that all Key West fishing trips are personalized to suit every angler’s needs. Aboard his 39 Contender, Chris delivers unforgettable fishing adventures in the Florida Keys, making your experience on the water truly extraordinary.
Reel Fly Charters
305-747-4719
reelflykeywest.com
