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 Pedigree

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.

Captain Justin lives in Sugarloaf Key with his wife Loren and son. He guides anglers of all abilities and because he trailers his Chittum skiff, he has the ability to fish anywhere from Key West to Key Largo, but most of his fishing is in the Lower Florida Keys, Key West and the Marquesas.

If you would like to know more about fishing with Captain Justin please email him or call/text in the evenings at 305-360-3122.