A conservation-focused guide from Captain Jesse Capwell of Warbird Charters.
By Captain Jesse Capwell – Warbird Fishing Charters, Stuart FL
(Sailfish Capital of the World · Snook Conservation · Treasure Coast Fishing)
On the Treasure Coast, we’re fortunate to have year-round access to two of Florida’s most iconic gamefish: sailfish offshore and snook inshore. Both species are a huge part of what makes fishing in Stuart so special. As a captain who grew up on these waters, conservation isn’t an afterthought for me — it’s the foundation of how I fish. We release these fish not because we have to, but because we want this world-class fishery to stay healthy for generations.
Sailfish: Protecting the Pride of Stuart
Stuart earned the title “Sailfish Capital of the World” for good reason. Our offshore reefs, Gulf Stream influence, and steady bait supply create one of the best sailfish fisheries anywhere. Atlantic sailfish are already managed as a catch-and-release species, but the way they’re released is what keeps this fishery thriving. On my boat, we fight them clean and efficiently with properly matched tackle so they’re not exhausted. I keep the fish in the water during release, revive them boat-side until they kick off on their own, and rely on circle hooks to prevent deep-hooking. These fish are built for speed and power, and when you release them right, they swim away strong and ready to fight again another day.
Snook: The Treasure of Our Inshore Waters
Snook are the heartbeat of inshore fishing in Stuart. They’re powerful, smart, and closely tied to our local ecosystem. But they’re also sensitive to cold weather, water quality shifts, and pressure, especially during the summer spawning months. That’s why proper catch and release is essential. When we land a snook, I limit handling as much as possible to protect their slime layer, support their body instead of hanging them vertically, and release them headfirst into clean, moving water. I avoid overplaying them during warm-water days and am extremely careful with big spawning females. Healthy snook mean healthy bridges, healthy mangroves, and a thriving river system — and that benefits every angler in our community.
Why Conservation Matters Here in Stuart
Our fishing community relies on sustainable populations of sailfish and snook. Offshore, strong sailfish numbers are what make our winter and summer runs world-class. Inshore, snook populations drive everything from bait movements to the health of our estuary. Responsible catch and release keeps our fishery balanced, supports local tourism, protects habitat, and ensures that families can continue enjoying the same incredible fishing that I grew up with. The way I see it, if we take care of the fish, the fish will take care of us.
Fishing With a Captain Who Protects the Resource
Booking a trip with me means fishing with someone who genuinely cares about the water you’re fishing. These are the bridges, inlets, and offshore edges where I spent my childhood. Conservation isn’t a marketing slogan — it’s how I’ve always fished. Whether we’re releasing a sailfish that lit up behind the boat or watching a big snook swim back under a bridge, each release matters. That’s how we keep Stuart’s fishery strong.
Warbird Fishing Charters – Stuart, Florida
Born and raised here. Conservation-driven. Family-run.
