CAPT. DAVE SPAULDING
Born in Ohio, Dave moved to the Clearwater area as a youngster. His father, Gene, started running fishing boats out of Clearwater Marina in the mid 1950’s. Dave owned his first charter boat by the age of 21, while working as a Clearwater Firefighter. He bought his first party-fishing boat in the early 1970’s, and the Queen Fleet was born. His pastimes include fishing, flying his airplane, and playing a round of golf every now and then. Dave no longer skippers the boats on a daily basis, but if you’re lucky, you can catch a glimpse of him in the mornings around the dock still issuing orders here and there.
CAPT. ERIC SPAULDING
Eric, a third-generation Clearwater fisherman, runs the half day trips as well as an occasional all day trip. Besides fishing, he enjoys playing guitar and golfing.
CAPT. STAN CZAPLICKI
Stan, our manager, has been with the Queen Fleet for over 25 years. He runs half day and all day trips, and is one of the finest fishermen you will come across. He and his wife, Chris, are avid photographers, and spend much of their leisure time traveling the state capturing award-winning nature photographs.
CAPT. BOB KIRN
Bob (known as BRILLO to many) has been with us for over 5 years now, and is the captain of the all day trips aboard the Gulf Queen. You WILL NOT find a Captain on any other charter or head boat that can match Bob’s enthusiasm for fishing. He is always willing to help a beginner get his or her first big grouper! Bob’s days off usually find him traveling with his family, fishing from his personal boat, or surfing with his son, Pete.
CAPT. TODD LEGATH
Todd has been with us for over 10 years, and splits time as both deckhand of the all day trips and Captain of the Super Queen. He always has a smile on his face and is very helpful to our guests. Besides fishing, he enjoys camping and spending time with his family.
CRAIG CUNNINGHAM
Craig, our expert chef aboard the Gulf Queen, is as much a fishing fanatic as anyone. He spends his days off going to school and fishing for just about anything that swims.