Rose Marina on Marco Island is now home to the largest fishing vessel serving our area.  It is operated by American Patriot Fishing Charters, which has its headquarters in Hollywood, FL. The vessel is a custom-fabricated 135-foot Head Boat which is 29 feet wide and will accommodate fishermen on anywhere from three-day to 10-day fishing outings to where the big fish live and anglers continue to dream about. “It is one of the finest fishing adventures you’ll ever experience,” said Captain Ralph Hawkins, who owns and captains the vessel with a five-person crew.

The ship is powered by three Caterpillar c18 diesel engines that pump out 1000-hp each, and is completely outfitted for the long hauls out of Marco Island down to the Dry Tortugas and on to the fishing areas known as Pulley Ridge or Howell’s Hook, which are described as the finest “deep drop” fishing spots anywhere. They also will do private charters as they seek to meet their clients’ needs.

Along with the 3000-hp of diesel engines, they also are equipped with some of the most sophisticated safety and navigation equipment available. They typically will burn 900 gallons on a three-day trip.  Captain Hawkins attributes that to the c18 Cat engines he specified when he had the vessel refitted for its present-day use.

• Two (2) Northern lights 100 KW generators to power the vessel’s onboard systems.
• 5000 gallons of fuel.

• 1000 gallons of fresh water with the ability to produce an additional 90 gallons per hour.

• Capacity to hold 8000 pounds of fish.

• Capacity to produce 2000 pounds of saltwater ice per day.

• Two Furuno Color Video Plotters

• Furuno and Time Zero Navigation Equipment.

• Two Color Depth Sounders/Fishfinders

• Two GPS units

• Weather Fax

• Single sideband radio

• Two VHF Radios

• Two 48-mile-range Furuno Radars

• AIS Ship Identification System

• Inmarsat Satellite Phone

In addition to this high-tech equipment, the vessel will provide guests with a full-service galley and chef, and a lounge where guests can enjoy a relaxing beverage, which guests are responsible for providing.  The lounge will seat 48 people comfortably and there are two 40” LED TVs provided in that area.

They can comfortably sleep 32 guests aboard the vessel, plus four crew members and Chef Mike.  They will customarily leave the dock at 4 pm and will be fishing between 10 pm and 11 pm that same evening on the short trip. 

You are allowed to bring your own rods and reels, but you may rent equipment, including electric reels, should you desire. Just check with personnel when you book your trip.

You can see more information regarding the boat and the services it offers at their website www.americanpatriotfishing.com, or by calling 239-235-9044.

FISH ON!!