Captain Ryan Aper grew up in East Alabama, where his love of fishing started as soon as he could hold a pole. That passion followed him through life, and after serving proudly in the United States Army, Ryan set his sights on Key West. He moved here in 2012 to chase big fish and build a career in the sport fishing capital of the world—and he’s been doing just that ever since.

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With over a decade of experience guiding in Key West, Ryan has fished it all—offshore, on the reef and wrecks of the Lower Keys, and in the shallow backcountry waters where he spends most of his time today. He’s discovered a fishery like no other in the backcountry and around the Marquesas, where he targets species like tarpon, cobia, jacks, permit, barracuda, sharks, and snapper.

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Whether he’s helping a seasoned angler chase a bucket-list catch or showing a new fisherman the ropes, Ryan brings the same passion and dedication to every trip. For him, it’s more than a job—it’s about creating unforgettable experiences in some of the most beautiful waters in the world.