Key West Fly Fishing Guide

Capt. Johan Vannieuwland is a Florida native with a lifelong connection to the water. As a child he was fortunate enough to live on the Mosquito Lagoon and fishing occupied the majority of his free time. As he grew, so did his fascination with fishing. His passion took him south to Biscayne Bay and the Upper Keys, and in recent years, the Lower Keys where he guides fly anglers of all abilities for tarpon, permit, and bonefish year-round from his Chittum skiff.

Q&A With Capt. Johan Vannieuwland

Q. Describe your guiding style?
A. Intense but calm.

Q. Why did you decide to become a guide?
A. As a kid waiting for my parents to get off work I would fish on dock and would constantly see fishing guides drop off clients. At that point I realized you can make a living doing that. As I got older I loved being on the back of the boat and setting up the shots also love the challenge of trying to pattern the fish. I just truly enjoy being on the water, and seeing people in such a great mood when they’re in the skiff.

Q. What is your most memorable catch?
A. 14lb bonefish in biscayne bay.

Q. What is your most memorable client catch?
A. A 30lb permit on fly.

Q. Do you enjoy fishing as much as you enjoy guiding?
A. I would say I love being on the back of the boat more. I love the challenge of trying to crack the code each day.

Q. Who got you into fishing?
A. My parents and a family friend Richard Leblonde. Me and Mr. Richard would attend the local fly fishing club monthly.

Q. What is your favorite fish in the world to fish for?
A. Permit

Q. What is your dream fishing location?
A. Key West

Q. Music or no music on the boat?
A. I don’t have a sound system, but bring a wireless speaker from time to time.

Q. What is your opinion of bananas?
A. Love them. They’re welcome on the boat

Q. What can everyone do to help the environment of the Lower Keys?
A. Just be respectful of the flats and where you’re running. If you see trash pick it up. Etiquette on the water means a lot to me.