Specialties
Zookeeper Charters is about more than putting fish in the boat. It’s about learning, confidence, and moments families remember long after the trip ends. Based out of Sebastian Inlet, Captain Richard runs private trips for anglers of all ages and experience levels, with a strong focus on patience, safety, and hands-on instruction.
Captain Richard connects easily with people, especially kids and first-time anglers. He takes pride in teaching the fundamentals — what you’re doing and why it works — whether it’s a child catching their first fish or a beginner learning light tackle.
The waters around Sebastian Inlet and Melbourne Beach offer an incredible mix of inshore and offshore opportunities. Trips can target Snook, Redfish, Trout, Snapper, Tarpon, Sheepshead, Flounder, Black Drum, Mackerel, Goliath Grouper and even Sharks. With fishing available year-round, there’s always something biting.
Captain Richard also offers sandbar trips, island hopping, wildlife tours and sunset cruises — good for families, mixed groups, or anyone who wants time on the water without the fishing.
Zookeeper Charters also runs private ash scattering charters at sea. Captain Richard holds a USCG Master credential, and every scattering is conducted beyond the three-nautical-mile line federal law requires, with a printed certificate showing the GPS coordinates and the EPA notification filed for the family.
History
Established in 2026.
Capt. Richard is a licensed and insured U.S. coast guard nearcoastal master captain and runs trips out of Melbourne beach and Vero Beach aboard a fully loaded 26' Avenger Bay boat. Richard is commonly talked about being one of the most humble and kid friendly fishing guides in the area, teaching is a major pasion of his. He was raised just less then a few miles away from the world famous Sebastian inlet. surfing an fishing these waters since 2 years old He is a true local talent. Capt Richard was not always a fishing guide, he was just a well known local fisherman. now he is grateful that he gets to create smiling faces of friends and families. when you book with richard he will give you 110% every time
Meet the Business Owner: Richard L.
Capt. Richard is a licensed and insured U.S. coast guard nearcoastal master captain and runs trips out of Melbourne beach and Vero Beach aboard a fully loaded 26' Avenger Bay boat. Richard is commonly talked about being one of the most humble and kid friendly fishing guides in the area, teaching is a major pasion of his. He was raised just less then a few miles away from the world famous Sebastian inlet. surfing an fishing these waters since 2 years old He is a true local talent. Capt Richard was not always a fishing guide, he was just a well known local fisherman. now he is grateful that he gets to create smiling faces of friends and families. when you book with richard he will give you 110% every time
