Meet Captain Keith Zumar

A proud native of Southwest Florida, Captain Keith Zumar grew up immersed in the natural beauty of the region, learning to fish the waters of Matlacha and Pine Island Sound as well as exploring the canals and bridges of Virginia Beach from a young age, where he and his friends honed their skills and mastered the art of catching snook from a modest 12-foot Jon boat during his teenage years. Following his graduation from Cape Coral High School in 2001, Keith embarked on a distinguished 20-year career in the U.S. Navy, where he served in various capacities including as a Rescue Swimmer, a black beret-wearing Riverine Patrol Officer, and a Surface Warfare Officer, with a notable highlight being his role as Weapon and Combat Systems Officer aboard the guided missile cruiser USS VELLA GULF, during which he completed four overseas deployments and earned several commendations, including three Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals, and was honored as the 2017 Atlantic Fleet Department Head of the Year.

In 2006, Keith married Tracy, and together they embarked on a journey that took them across the United States to places like California, Virginia, and Rhode Island, all the while maintaining his passion for fishing and duck hunting as a cherished part of his life, a passion that remained steadfast even amidst his prestigious naval career. After retiring from the Navy in 2021, Keith and his family returned to their roots in Cape Coral, where he pursued his long-held dream of becoming a charter captain, earning his charter captain license and founding Salty Pirate Fishing Charters, a name that reflects both his Navy leadership experiences and his enduring love for the waters of Southwest Florida.

Today, Captain Keith Zumar brings his deep local knowledge and extensive fishing experience to Salty Pirate Fishing Charters, where he specializes in providing exceptional inshore fishing adventures targeting a variety of species such as redfish, snook, trout, and tarpon, ensuring that each fishing charter is not only successful but also safe, enjoyable, and memorable for guests of all ages and skill levels. Whether guiding enthusiastic youth camps on extended 20-hour trips or offering personalized solo charters through the intricate mangrove channels, Captain Keith’s dedication to sharing his expertise and passion for fishing promises an unforgettable experience for every angler who joins him on the water.