Meet your captains
Capt. Nick Thorstenson
Captain Nick Thorstenson is the founder of Native Guided Fishing. Captain Nick grew up on Marco Island making the 10,000 islands and the Gulf of Mexico here in Southwest Florida his back yard. Nick worked his way through college as a charter captain and desires to pursue his dream of sharing this unique fishery with others. Captain Nick has a great respect for the natural beauty and for the fishing in this area of Florida. He is an active supporter of various conservation organizations that are working to ensure a healthy and sustainable fishery for today’s fishing and tomorrows dreams.
Capt. Kodie Fridley
Captain Kodie is the owner of Native Guided Fishing and was born in Key West. He grew up in Southwest Florida, making the 10,000 islands and the Gulf of Mexico his home. Kodie obtained his USCG license at 18 and guided throughout his college years where he attended Florida Gulf Coast University. After years away Kodie found himself back at the helm to help show others the unique fishing experience that is the 10,000 islands.
Capt. Kyle Neff
Capt. Cooper Nettles
Captain Cooper like the rest of the Native Guided Fishing team is a Florida native. The Marco Island/Goodland area throughout the 10,000 Islands national preserve is his backyard. Between his vast Knowledge of the local waters, fishing techniques, and a relentless passion for fishing, he is a strong member of the team! Let Captain Cooper guide you on a memorable fishing adventure where you can expect some laughs and good clean fun!
Capt. Weston Bedell
Captain Wes is a second generation captain and being a fishing guide is something that he always wanted to do since he can remember. Growing up and fishing with his father has truly taught him how special time spent outdoors can be for a family. Now he is able to share the beautiful Southwest Florida waterways that he grew up on. From getting lost in the mangroves to going offshore where there is nothing in sight, his father taught him how to get there. Capt Wes was being trained his entire life without even knowing it, he is forever grateful to his dad for this. Captain Wes says, “I am blessed to be starting my career at such a young age, and grateful to be able to share how amazing being on the water can be on any given day.”
Capt. Jason Ginther
Captain Jason like the rest of the Native Guided Fishing team is a Florida native. The Marco Island/Goodland has been his backyard his entire life. Between his Knowledge of the local waters, and a relentless passion for fishing, he is a strong member of the team! Let Captain Jason guide you on a memorable fishing adventure where you can expect wildlife and family fun!
Capt. Kyle Fridley
Captain Kyle Fridley is a second generation mariner and another Florida native. Kyle has had his front tooth knocked out by a redfish (thanks to Kodie), commercially fished in the Gulf of Mexico, and can splice rope better than most. Kyle grew up in a fishing and boating household and he has found his way back to the docks. Kyle enjoys each day on the water and working with his guests to ensure everyone enjoys their time on the water together!
