Meet Captain Clay

Meet Captain Clay of Clay Philips Fishing Guide & Rides

Captain Clay’s passion for fishing started long before he ever became a professional St. Augustine fishing guide. Growing up around the water, he spent countless days fishing alongside his father, who worked as a fishing guide for more than 30 years and helped shape his love for the outdoors and saltwater fishing lifestyle. Those early experiences taught Captain Clay not only how to catch fish, but also how to respect the water, understand changing conditions, and enjoy the simple moments that make every trip memorable. Today, after more than three decades of guiding anglers throughout Northeast Florida, he still approaches every charter with the same excitement and appreciation that first inspired him as a kid.

As a longtime St. Augustine fishing guide, Captain Clay has built a reputation for his local knowledge, laid-back personality, and patient approach with guests of all skill levels. His experience navigating the local ecosystem—from shallow grass flats and oyster bars to productive backwater creeks and inshore channels—allows him to consistently put anglers in the best position for success depending on the season and conditions. Guests fishing with Clay Philips Fishing Guide & Rides often appreciate his calm teaching style and willingness to help beginners learn techniques while still creating exciting opportunities for experienced anglers chasing quality fish. Safety and comfort are always priorities onboard, especially during family-friendly fishing charters in St. Augustine where kids and first-time anglers can relax and enjoy the experience. September and the summer months are especially memorable times on the water, often producing action-packed days with steady catches and unforgettable moments.

What truly separates Captain Clay from many other guides is his genuine hospitality and deep local roots within the St. Augustine fishing community. He enjoys sharing the unique fisheries and natural beauty that make the oldest city in Florida such a special place to fish and explore. Whether guiding visitors through productive bottom fishing areas, scenic flats fishing waters, or hidden inshore locations, he focuses on creating a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere where guests feel welcome from the moment they step onboard. Many families return year after year because of his friendly personality, local insight, and ability to make every trip feel personal rather than rushed. Captain Clay also enjoys introducing kids and families to fishing through easygoing “first catch” trips and scenic eco-style adventures that help guests experience local wildlife, waterways, and coastal scenery beyond simply catching fish.

The Boat

Clay Philips Fishing Guide & Rides operates a dependable 19-foot Polar skiff powered by a reliable Yamaha 115 HP engine, perfectly suited for exploring the shallow waters and productive fishing grounds around St. Augustine. Designed to comfortably accommodate up to four guests, the boat provides a smooth ride while accessing flats, creeks, estuaries, and backwater areas that larger vessels often cannot reach. The skiff is equipped with quality fishing gear, safety equipment, storage space for tackle and personal items, and a layout that works well for both serious anglers and families looking for a relaxed day on the water. Whether guests are planning inshore fishing in St. Augustine, targeting Redfish and Black Drum, or simply enjoying time outdoors with a trusted local captain, the boat helps create a comfortable and memorable experience from start to finish.