ABOUT Capt Craig Lahr
A Lifetime on Clearwater’s Skinny Water
Locally raised, IGFA-Certified, dedicated to safe, memorable days
From Indian Rocks Pier to IGFA World Records, guiding families with patience, skill, and local knowledge.
Growing up on Indian Rocks Beach, Captain Craig learned to fish the right way: listening to the seasoned “old-timers” on the local pier and soaking up every bit of knowledge they were willing to share. When Hurricane Elena struck Tampa Bay in 1985 and the pier was lost, so were those informal lessons. Craig didn’t stop learning, though. He went to work as a mate on a commercial fishing vessel and spent every spare hour back on the water, exploring nearby piers, grass flats, and backcountry creeks. Those early days on the flats were unforgettable and reignited his love for fishing.
A few years later, a talented local angler introduced Craig to light-tackle sport fishing and the finer points of fly. That mentorship shaped his guiding style today: thoughtful instruction, attention to detail, and a deep respect for the fish and the fishery. The backwater estuaries have become his second home, and he takes pride in sharing them with families, first-timers, and experienced anglers alike.
Skinny Water Charters and Captain Craig Lahr hold IGFA World Records on fly and light gear, and Craig is IGFA Certified. From snook on the flats to seasonal runs that light up the bay, you’ll fish with quality tackle, clear coaching, and a steady hand at the helm. Come experience the joy and excitement of skinny-water fishing at its best, where great memories start with a solid plan and a trusted local captain.
Our Clearwater Fishing Boat
Step aboard our 22-foot Stiger Craft, equipped with a shade top and complete safety gear for your comfort and peace of mind. Built for the Tampa Bay area’s toughest days, this hull handles 2–3 foot chop with a soft, dry ride and rock-solid stability.
Designed to go where the fish are, the Stiger Craft slips into shallow backwater estuaries that many 22-foot boats can’t reach, yet it’s just as at home offshore in the Gulf of Mexico when we’re chasing tarpon or king mackerel. Don’t let the sleek profile fool you — it’s a confident, capable platform for serious sport fishing and relaxed family outings alike.
Join Capt. Craig for a memorable day on the water in Clearwater, John’s Pass, Redington Shores, and across all of Tampa Bay. Whether you’re fishing the flats, exploring the backcountry, or heading into the Gulf when conditions allow, we focus on a safe, comfortable experience and the kind of fishing memories that last a lifetime.
