We have gin clear water and shallow sand and grass flats that are home to some of the most sought after fish in fly fishing. Tarpon, bonefish and permit are some of the more popular species for fly fishing. We have a year-round climate that keeps these fish here even when they migrate there are always the ones who decide to call the Keys their home, at least for a little while.

My experience with fly fishing started when I was very young. I took my first guide trip in my early 20s and started guiding in saltwater in 2002. Since then I have learned a lot about our fishery and how to protect it so it can be enjoyed for future generations.

My specialty is fly fishing and I offer guided fishing charters on the flats for tarpon, bonefish, permit, sharks and barracuda. I also do some guiding offshore for tuna, sailfish, wahoo, grouper and snapper on occasion. My charters are open to anglers of any ability and I have both spin and fly tackle on hand.

Please feel free to email me with any questions about the area or to inquire about booking a charter.

About Captain Justin Rea

Florida Keys Fly Fishing Guide | Tournament Champion | Conservation Advocate

Welcome to Sting Rea Charters, where world-class fly fishing meets the pristine flats of the Florida Keys. Captain Justin Rea is a seasoned guide with over two decades of experience, specializing in sight fishing for tarpon, permit, and bonefish across the Lower Keys, Key West, and the Marquesas.

Meet Your Guide

Captain Justin began his guiding career in the mountain rivers of Idaho and California before relocating to the Keys in 2002. His freshwater foundation gives him a unique edge in teaching casting mechanics and reading water — skills that translate beautifully to saltwater fly fishing. Known for his calm demeanor, sharp eyes, and technical precision, Justin is as comfortable coaching beginners as he is guiding seasoned anglers to trophy fish.

Tournament Experience

Justin’s expertise has earned him top honors in some of the most competitive fly fishing tournaments in the world:

• 🏆 2023 March Merkin Permit Tournament – Grand Champion with angler Jose Ucan, landing six permit in a single day.
• 🥈 2025 March Merkin – First Runner-Up and Largest Permit Award (69 cm).
• 🏆 Del Brown Permit Tournament – Grand Champion guide in 2009, 2011, and 2013.
• 🏆 Redbone SuperFly – Multiple-time winner supporting cystic fibrosis research.
• 🎣 Smitty & Al’s Tarpon Bonanza – Repeated wins led to promotion into the professional division.

Why Fish with Justin?

• ✅ Custom Chittum skiff for ultra-quiet poling and shallow water access
• ✅ Mobile trailering for optimal conditions from Key Largo to Key West
• ✅ Patient instruction and tailored trips for all skill levels
• ✅ Deep local knowledge and tournament-tested strategies
• ✅ Commitment to ethical angling and habitat conservation

Off the Water

When he’s not guiding, Justin enjoys life in Sugarloaf Key with his wife Loren and their son. He’s often found tying flies, scouting new flats, or preparing for the next big tournament.

Ready to fish with a legend?
Book your trip with Captain Justin Rea and experience the thrill of fly fishing in the Florida Keys.