The Reef Chief Charters

Business Details

Deep Sea Fishing Charters in Port Richey, FL

Founded by Captain Mike Teegarden, a lifelong Floridian with decades of Gulf of Mexico fishing expertise, The Reef Chief Charters delivers premier deep-sea fishing adventures. Our U.S. Coast Guard-licensed and insured operation prioritizes safety with state-of-the-art equipment, including a 36-ft. Sea Hawk vessel featuring advanced radar, GPS, and emergency systems. We specialize in targeting grouper, snapper, kingfish, and other species in depths ranging from 50 to 115 feet, offering personalized trips for both novice and experienced anglers.

Our commitment to quality extends to providing all necessary gear, licensing, and fish preparation services. With a focus on creating lasting memories, we combine technical expertise with hospitality to ensure every charter delivers exceptional value and unforgettable experiences.

Services

Deep-Sea Fishing Flats Fishing Group Charters Night Fishing Fish Preparation

Highlights and features

20+ years of Gulf of Mexico fishing expertise with US Coast Guard-certified crew
Customized trips for all skill levels with top-tier safety equipment
Proven success targeting multiple species in optimal depth ranges
Comprehensive service including gear, licensing, and fish preparation
Award-winning customer satisfaction with 4.7-star review average

Associations and certifications

U.S. Coast Guard

What people say

Monster catches Excellent safety focus Non-stop action Family-friendly education Scenic Gulf views

Website

Update Listing

Services

Deep-Sea Fishing

Target trophy grouper, snapper, and kingfish in Gulf of Mexico depths of 50-115 feet. Our 36-ft. Sea Hawk vessel accommodates parties up to six with modern amenities including shaded deck areas and onboard restrooms. Expert crew guidance ensures optimal fishing techniques for both novice and experienced anglers.

Flats Fishing

Pursue redfish, sea trout, and tarpon in pristine Gulf Coast flats. Our specialized skiffs navigate shallow waters with precision, providing casting platforms and live bait for targeting elusive inshore species in natural habitats.

Group Charters

Customizable fishing adventures for families and small groups. Includes safety briefings, equipment instruction, and fish handling education. Trips range from 4-hour introductory sessions to 12-hour full-day excursions with onboard meal preparation demonstrations.

Night Fishing

Specialized nocturnal fishing expeditions targeting species active after dark. Equipped with marine lighting systems and sonar technology, our night charters offer unique opportunities to catch deep-sea species using glow jigs and light-stick techniques.

Fish Preparation

Professional cleaning, filleting, and ice-packing services included with every charter. Crew provides cooking demonstrations using fresh catches, with recipe cards and storage tips for preserving your Gulf seafood bounty at home.

People

Mike Teegarden

Captain

Third-generation Florida fisherman with 25+ years charter experience. US Coast Guard licensed captain specializing in Gulf of Mexico ecosystems. Recognized for exceptional safety record and customer education during fishing excursions.

Drew

First Mate

Certified marine technician and experienced deckhand with 10 years supporting Gulf Coast charters. Expert in rigging, bait preparation, and fish handling techniques. Known for attentive customer service and safety focus.

Questions

What fishing species can we target?

Gag grouper, red snapper, kingfish, mangrove snapper, cobia, bonito, and seasonal species like mahi-mahi. We adjust locations based on seasonal migrations.

What's included in charter packages?

All necessary gear, licenses, bait, tackle, and fish preparation services. Trips include safety equipment, onboard amenities, and expert crew guidance throughout your fishing adventure.

What trip durations are available?

Options include 4-hour half-day, 6-hour three-quarter day, 8-hour full-day, 10-hour, and 12-hour extended charters departing daily from Port Richey.

Is the boat suitable for families?

Yes! Our 36-ft. Sea Hawk features a wide beam for stability, shaded deck areas, onboard restroom, and safety equipment making it ideal for multi-generational fishing adventures.

What safety measures are in place?

We maintain US Coast Guard certification with life vests, emergency tracking, automatic life raft, and dual-range radar. Crew conducts safety briefings before each departure.

Can beginners participate?

Absolutely! Our crew provides equipment instruction and technique guidance tailored to all skill levels. Many first-time anglers catch their personal best fish with our charter.

Reviews (6)

Write a Review

Jane Geider

Jan 04, 2022 Report

Our family had a fantastic time fishing today. Our grandkids enjoyed the deep sea fishing experience and our son-in-law even caught a tiger shark! Captain Mike and mate, Drew, are very knowledgeable and the boat was super clean.

Amy Forkner

Oct 19, 2021 Report

Captain Mike,
Thank you for a great day of fishing! We absolutely love learning how to catch and actually catching fish from the best.Will highly recommend you to all family friends,co-workers and anyone coming to Florida. Watching Jayme catch and hold a shark was priceless. Looking forward to our next trip. Thanks again!
Amy and Chuck Forkner, Stacy MN

Laurie Lasko

Sep 28, 2021 Report

My husband, brother and myself joined Captain Mike and 1st mate Drew today- went out around 25 miles to do some fishing. Captain Mike and First Mate Drew were awesome!! Totally focused on giving us a great experience! They were so focused on giving us the best experience and always looking to find the best location to catch fish. Great teachers for those who have not been out fishing in the gulf -We will definitely fish with them again!! If you want a great trip in the gulf and want to learn how to catch specific fish- this is the charter for you!!

Jose Rodriguez

Sep 03, 2021 Report

It was an incredible fishing experience. Capt. Mike gave us really good tips to fish and we came back with a lot of fish!, my family happy faces really made it all worth it! I will be back on this tour. Thanks Mike!

Senna M.

Jul 29, 2021 Report

Captain Mike, the magnificent and the double thrown down, First Mate Drew were fantastic! Our experience was top notch. Not only did Captain Mike put us on the fish, and Drew make sure we always had bait on the line, they were friendly, funny, knowledgeable and so so helpful. We will be back for another adventure. Just make sure to bring $5 for the jokes!

Bill Henshaw

Jul 23, 2021 Report

We had a great day fishing on The Reef Chief. Captain Mike and his mate Drew did an awesome job putting us on the fish. They shared their knowledge and experience with us and this helped in catching fish. The boat is very clean, and has plenty of space for people fishing. We would definitely charter with Captain Mike and the Reed Chief.