Captain Jay Withers is a highly respected fishing guide based on Florida’s west coast, known for decades of experience navigating some of the region’s most productive inshore and nearshore waters. From Charlotte Harbor and Lemon Bay to Boca Grande Pass and the surrounding Gulf, Jay has built a reputation for consistency, knowledge, and professionalism on the water.
Originally from Ohio, Jay developed his passion for fishing at an early age, competing in bass tournaments before relocating to Florida to pursue fishing full time. By the early 2000s, he had established himself as a U.S. Coast Guard–licensed captain, turning a lifelong passion into a successful guiding career. Today, he operates Silver Lining Charters out of Port Charlotte, offering customized fishing experiences for anglers of all skill levels.
Captain Jay specializes in targeting tarpon, snook, redfish, speckled trout, and a wide variety of other inshore species, with Boca Grande—widely known as the Tarpon Capital of the World—playing a major role in his seasons. In addition to inshore fishing, Jay offers nearshore and specialty trips for species such as snapper, kingfish, sharks, and goliath grouper, as well as fly fishing excursions focused on shallow-water sight fishing.
Jay is also the host of Guidelines TV, a nationally recognized fishing and outdoor adventure series that showcases diverse fisheries, effective techniques, and the excitement of sportfishing. His approach on screen mirrors his guiding style—educational, engaging, and driven by a deep respect for the resource.
A long-time partner of Pathfinder and Maverick boats, Captain Jay relies on proven performance and reliability to meet the demands of daily guiding and filming. Whether guiding clients or producing content, Jay Withers continues to share his passion for fishing while delivering memorable experiences on the water.
