TOP RATED HEADWATERS LAKE FISHING Guides

Captain Bill Goudy Jr. is a licensed U.S. Coast Guard Master Captain and full-time professional fishing guide based in Fellsmere, Florida, specializing in trophy largemouth bass fishing on Headwaters Lake. With decades of experience on the water and a lifetime of angling passion, Captain Bill is known for putting clients on fish and creating unforgettable days in one of Florida’s premier bass fishing destinations.

Originally from Southeast Iowa, Bill was raised on the banks of the Mississippi River, where his family ran a campground and bait shop. Fishing became second nature early in life — his first bass was caught with a vintage Johnson spoon from his dad’s tackle box, and he’s been hooked ever since.

After years of guiding and fishing throughout the Midwest and Southeast, he followed his dream south and made Florida his home. Today, Headwaters Lake, also known as Fellsmere Reservoir, is his main stomping ground. This legendary fishery is packed with giant bass, and Captain Bill is one of our best Headwaters Lake Fishing Guides.

Whether you’re a seasoned angler chasing your next personal best or a beginner looking for an exciting introduction to Florida bass fishing, Captain Bill brings local knowledge, patience, and passion to every trip. His calm, professional approach and deep understanding of Headwaters Lake’s structure, seasonal patterns, and bass behavior make him a top choice for anglers from all over the country.

Bass Boat (1-4ppl) Species Largemouth Bass

Captain Steve Spatafora is one of the rare true natives of Central Florida’s fishing scene. Born and raised in Orlando, he’s been chasing freshwater species like largemouth bass, crappie, and peacock bass since childhood. With deep roots in Florida’s waters and a lifetime of angling experience, Captain Steve brings unmatched local knowledge and a passion for sharing his home state’s legendary fisheries on one of his bass fishing charters.

As a licensed U.S. Coast Guard Captain, Steve has spent decades exploring iconic fisheries like the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes, Harris Chain, and the St. Johns River. But these days, his top pick is Florida’s crown jewel for bass anglers — the Headwaters Lake in Fellsmere. Known for its explosive topwater action and trophy-sized bass, Headwaters has quickly become Captain Steve’s favorite playground, and he knows all the hotspots to put you on fish.

Whether you’re new to bass fishing or a seasoned pro, Captain Steve offers a patient, positive, and professional approach. Every trip is tailored to deliver a fun, safe, and educational day on the water. His goal is simple: to give you a shot at catching your personal best while making memories that last a lifetime.

Bass Boat (1-4ppl)  Species Largemouth Bass

Captain Paul Dampier is a true Florida native who has spent his life navigating the state’s intricate network of lakes, ponds, and canals in pursuit of trophy bass and crappie. With a deep-rooted passion for fishing and a lifetime of experience on Florida’s freshwater, Captain Paul brings an unmatched level of expertise to every guided trip.

Paul’s fishing journey began at a young age alongside his father on the legendary Lake Okeechobee, targeting specks (crappie) and trophy largemouth bass. After his father’s passing, Paul’s older brother continued mentoring him, further fueling his love for the outdoors. Through years of experience, Paul developed a keen understanding of seasonal fish behavior, weather patterns, and the best bait and lure strategies for success across Florida’s diverse fisheries.

Now as a licensed and seasoned guide, Headwaters Lake in Fellsmere is one of his favorite waters to share with anglers. Known for its pristine vegetation, giant bass, and thrilling action, Headwaters Lake fishing charters offers the perfect setting for both seasoned anglers and newcomers looking to land a personal best.

Bass Boat (1-4ppl)  Species Largemouth Bass, Crappie

Captain Mike Groshon is a full-time fishing guide based in Kissimmee, Florida, with deep experience across Central and South Florida’s top freshwater fisheries. Originally from Virginia, he moved south to immerse himself in Florida’s legendary bass fishing scene and now specializes in trophy largemouth bass using both live bait and artificial lures.

With a background targeting exotic species like Peacock Bass, Snakehead, and Clown Knife Fish, Captain Mike brings a unique skill set to the table. He runs trips aboard a fully outfitted 2023 21-foot Falcon, powered by a 250HP Mercury engine and equipped with top-tier electronics and comforts for a smooth, productive day on the water.

Captain Mike offers custom fishing trips for up to three anglers or small families and is known for his laid-back, flexible style. He regularly guides on Lake Toho, Headwaters Lake, the Butler Chain, and local canal systems. Whether you’re into light tackle, fly fishing, or just landing a giant bass, Captain Mike delivers a fun, professional experience for all ages and skill levels. 

Bass Boat (1-4ppl) Species Largemouth Bass

Captain Dan is a proud Florida native who has called South Florida home for over 50 years. Growing up fishing both freshwater and saltwater, he developed a lifelong passion for chasing largemouth bass in lakes and ponds, as well as snook and redfish along Florida’s coastlines.

A U.S. Army veteran (Military Police) and retired South Florida police officer with 25 years of service, Captain Dan now spends his days doing what he loves most — guiding full-time on some of Florida’s most iconic fisheries. His main waters include the legendary Lake Okeechobee, the bass-rich Headwaters Lake, and Lake Garcia, where incredible scenery meets world-class angling.

Captain Dan specializes in light tackle techniques and enjoys teaching others how to catch fish using a variety of artificial lures. He also offers trips using live shiners for those looking to target true trophy bass. Every charter includes rods, tackle, and bottled water — with live bait available for an additional cost.

He’s also highly experienced with fly fishing and welcomes anglers of all skill levels, including those with disabilities, to enjoy a day of fishing on Florida’s best waters.

Bass Boat (1-4ppl) Species Largemouth Bass  

Captain Spencer Cookson is a full-time, professional bass fishing guide, splitting his seasons between Florida (September–May) and New England (summer months). While in Florida, Spencer specializes in targeting largemouth bass, peacock bass, and clown knifefish on some of the state’s most exciting fisheries, including the Lake Ida–Osborne Chain, the Florida Everglades, and of course, the legendary Headwaters Lake in Fellsmere.

With over four years of guiding experience, Spencer continues to hone his skills both on and off the tournament trail. In his first season competing in the Major League Fishing Phoenix Bass Fishing League, he placed 26th out of 250 anglers in the Northeast Division and earned two Top 10 finishes on Lake Champlain. His specialty lies in shallow-water grass fishing, making him especially effective in Florida’s weedy, structure-rich lakes.

Spencer guides from a high-performance Skeeter ZXR 20, powered by a 250HP Yamaha VMAX SHO. His boat is fully outfitted with tournament-grade gear, including Douglas rods, Shimano and Lew’s reels, and a wide selection of tackle to match any fishing condition.

Known for his professionalism and friendly demeanor, Spencer is passionate about teaching anglers of all skill levels. He typically prefers early morning starts but is flexible with scheduling, ensuring every client has a fun, educational, and productive day on the water.

Bass Boat (1-4ppl) Species Largemouth Bass  

Captain Justin Carriker is a native Floridian and full-time fishing guide, specializing in Headwaters Lake (Fellsmere Reservoir) and Lake Okeechobee. Raised fishing with his family from a young age, Justin developed a strong passion for Florida’s diverse freshwater fisheries and now dedicates his time to helping others experience the thrill of catching trophy largemouth bass.

Fishing from a sleek and fully equipped Z19 Nitro, Justin offers anglers a safe, smooth, and comfortable ride while covering the top bass fishing destinations across Central and South Florida. His boat is outfitted with modern electronics and the latest lures, baits, and tackle, giving clients every advantage on the water.

Captain Justin runs both artificial and live bait charters, and he’s passionate about teaching anglers of all skill levels — from first-timers to experienced bass hunters. He takes pride in sharing local fishing knowledge and proven techniques to help each client hook the fish of a lifetime.

Covering some of the most productive and scenic waterways in Florida, Captain Justin is committed to putting you in the best possible position to succeed. As a trusted member of the Headwaters Lake Fishing Guides, he’s recognized for his dedication, expertise, and client-focused approach.

Bass Boat (1-4ppl) Species Largemouth Bass, Crappie  

Captain Cody Dampier is a true Florida native whose passion for fishing began as soon as he could walk. Raised in the outdoors and mentored by his father, Cody grew up fishing Florida’s lakes, ponds, and canals, developing a lifelong appreciation for the sport and the ecosystems that support it. Today, he brings that experience and enthusiasm to every guided fishing trip across the state.

Cody regularly participates in bass fishing tournaments and spends much of his free time diving, riding his motorcycle, and enjoying days on the water with his family.

As a guide, Cody is known for his friendly and patient approach, whether he’s introducing a beginner to their first catch or helping an experienced angler land a personal best (PB). He enjoys working with anglers of all skill levels, offering tips on tackle setup, retrieval techniques, and overall strategy to make each trip both successful and memorable.

Captain Cody guides on Lake Okeechobee, Headwaters Lake, and other top freshwater fisheries throughout Central and South Florida. His mission is simple — to share the outdoors, put you on fish, and make sure you have an unforgettable day on the water.

Bass Boat (1-4ppl) Species Largemouth Bass, Crappie  

Captain Dawson Wisner is a dedicated bass fishing guide based in Okeechobee, Florida, known for his energetic approach and ability to connect with anglers of all experience levels. Originally from Westminster, Maryland, Dawson grew up pond-hopping and fishing local reservoirs before discovering his passion for tournament bass fishing during his time in the U.S. Army.

After being honorably discharged, Dawson relocated to the banks of the St. Johns River to fully immerse himself in Florida’s year-round bass fishing scene. His love for the sport led him to work in the tackle industry before becoming a licensed captain — combining customer service skills with hands-on angling expertise.

Today, Captain Dawson guides anglers on some of the best lakes and rivers across Florida, offering both artificial lure and live bait fishing trips, or a combination of both depending on conditions and client goals. He enjoys helping beginners catch their first trophy bass just as much as assisting seasoned anglers in achieving their personal best (PB).

Whether you’re after a relaxed learning experience or a competitive-style outing, Dawson is ready to make your time on the water both productive and memorable.

Bass Boat (1-4ppl) Species Largemouth Bass  

Captain Colton Hester is a Fort Pierce, Florida native whose lifelong connection to the water started in childhood, fishing alongside his dad and friends in the backwaters of the Sunshine State. What began as early mornings and boat prep with his father quickly became a passion that shaped his life and career. Those foundational lessons — rigging bait, navigating Florida’s waterways, and caring for every detail of the fishing experience — became second nature.

Now a licensed United States Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credentialed Captain, Colton has turned that passion into a profession. His guided trips reflect a lifetime of hands-on experience and a deep respect for Florida’s diverse freshwater and saltwater fisheries. Whether you’re chasing trophy largemouth bass on Headwaters Lake, targeting giants on Lake Okeechobee, or exploring coastal waters for snapper or snook, Captain Colton brings energy, knowledge, and professionalism to every charter.

Known for his meticulous prep and welcoming approach, Colton works with anglers of all experience levels. With a focus on safety, technique, and fun, his goal is to share the same excitement that first hooked him as a kid.

Captain Colton Hester isn’t just running fishing charters in Headwaters Lake— he’s living his calling and sharing it with every client who steps on board.

Bass Boat (1-4ppl) Species Largemouth Bass, Crappie    

Captain Lemay Acosta is a South Florida native and full-time professional freshwater fishing guide specializing in trophy bass and exotic species throughout South Florida’s lakes and canal systems. Having spent a lifetime exploring these waters, Captain Lemay combines local knowledge, modern technology, and a passion for helping anglers of all experience levels enjoy a successful day on the water.

Introduced to bass fishing at just 13 years old, Captain Lemay quickly developed a passion for mastering Florida’s unique freshwater fisheries. Today, he specializes in targeting largemouth bass, peacock bass, clown knife fish, and a variety of exotic freshwater species, customizing every trip to match his guests’ experience and fishing goals.

Step aboard his tournament-ready 19-foot Bass Cat, powered by a 175HP Mercury engine and equipped with advanced Humminbird electronics, including MEGA 360 Imaging and Forward-Facing Sonar, to locate fish and maximize opportunities throughout the day. Captain Lemay welcomes anglers of all ages and skill levels, from first-time fishermen to experienced bass anglers looking to refine their techniques.

As a USCG Licensed Captain, fully licensed and insured, Captain Lemay is committed to providing a safe, professional, and enjoyable fishing experience. Every trip includes the boat, fuel, premium fishing tackle, and expert instruction, giving guests everything they need to experience some of the best year-round freshwater fishing South Florida has to offer.

Bass Boat (1-3ppl) Species Largemouth Bass

Captain Chris Novack is a full-time Central Florida bass fishing guide based in Kenansville, Florida, specializing in trophy largemouth bass on some of the state’s most productive fisheries. With over 20 years of professional guiding experience and a competitive tournament background, Captain Chris combines expert knowledge, proven techniques, and a passion for helping anglers of all skill levels enjoy a successful day on the water.

Having fished since the age of eight, Captain Chris turned his lifelong passion into a career after serving in the Army and later competing at the highest levels of professional bass fishing. A qualifier for the prestigious 2007 Bassmaster Classic, he brings decades of tournament experience and local knowledge to every guided trip, teaching guests the seasonal patterns and techniques that consistently produce trophy bass.

Step aboard his 21-foot Ranger 521 bass boat, designed for performance, comfort, and serious fishing, with room for up to four anglers. Captain Chris regularly guides on Headwaters Lake, Lake Kissimmee, Lake Tohopekaliga, and other premier Central Florida bass fisheries, providing expert instruction while helping guests maximize every opportunity on the water.

After retiring from the Connecticut Department of Corrections and relocating to Florida in 2017, Captain Chris has dedicated himself to sharing his love of bass fishing with others. Every trip includes the boat, fuel, premium fishing equipment, and personalized instruction, ensuring a safe, enjoyable, and memorable experience for anglers chasing their next trophy bass.

Bass Boat (1-4ppl) Species Largemouth Bass