St. Pete Sport Fishing – Captain Doug Klimavich
This month, we’re proud to feature Captain Doug Klimavich, the proud owner and operator of St. Pete Sport Fishing. Operating out of Bass River Marina from mid-May through the end of September, Captain Doug brings a lifetime of passion and a deep understanding of Cape Cod’s waters to every charter.
With a stellar reputation, St. Pete Sport Fishing has earned the trust and praise of countless anglers. St. Pete Sport Fishing has earned over 50 five-star reviews on Google and more than 90 five-star reviews on FishingBooker.com as of the writing of this article. Captain Doug has also received the prestigious “Angler’s Choice Award” from FishingBooker.com, highlighting his commitment to excellence in the charter fishing industry.
From Manufacturing to the Monomoy Rips
Captain Doug’s journey into the world of fishing began with a classic New England tradition: freshwater fishing with his dad. But it was a move to Cape Cod in 1998 that truly set him on his path. He fell in love with saltwater fishing and eventually began commercial fishing for striped bass and bluefish. After retiring from a career as a manufacturing plant manager in 2020, he found a new calling. While working as a mate for another captain, he was encouraged to get his license. That winter, he passed his captain’s exam and launched St. Pete Sport Fishing.
A proud member of the Cape Cod Charter Boat Association (CCCBA), Captain Doug values the community of “highly trained, certified professionals” who are all dedicated to providing a safe, fun, and memorable experience for their clients. “CCCBA members are fully insured and licensed members of the fishing fleet who care about giving their customers a great, fun, and safe time on the water,” he says.
The Art of the Catch
While St. Pete Sport Fishing targets a variety of species, including bluefish, fluke, and black sea bass, their true specialty and passion lie with striped bass. “This is by far where I feel we have the most expertise,” he says, crediting his years of commercial fishing for the knowledge he’s gained.
For Captain Doug, the most rewarding part of his job is simple: “I love it when you see the look on a customer’s face when they land that first fish.” The thrill of a client reeling in a large striper is what makes his job so special. What makes fishing on Cape Cod so unique? According to Captain Doug, it’s a combination of the diverse species, the challenges each season brings, and the beautiful scenery. The shoals and rips, particularly off Monomoy, create ideal feeding grounds, attracting a wide variety of fish that keep every trip exciting.
Beyond the fishing, Captain Doug’s charters often include thrilling wildlife encounters, like sightings of seals, turtles, or even the occasional great white shark. “Having a Great White Shark swim past your boat or take a big bite out of one of the fish you’re landing is a thrill like no other,” he shares.
When it comes to safety, Captain Doug is meticulous. Before every trip, he goes over a complete safety briefing, covering everything from “man overboard” scenarios to the location of life jackets and fire extinguishers. “Nothing has ever happened, and we pray it never does, but it’s always better to know what to do in an emergency before it occurs,” he explains.
All About the Boat & Family Experience
The St. Pete is a 23’ Parker Sport Cabin, a vessel named after St. Peter, the fisherman. While it can accommodate up to six passengers, Captain Doug believes four is the ideal number. “This gives everyone plenty of space, and everyone gets enough fishing time on the rods,” he says. The boat is kept in top condition with a strict maintenance schedule and is cleaned and sanitized after every trip.
When asked about a piece of equipment he couldn’t live without, he quickly answers: Radar. The frequent fog on the south side of the Cape makes it an indispensable tool for safe navigation. His only superstition on board? “No bananas allowed.”
St. Pete Sport Fishing is the perfect choice for families. Captain Doug’s philosophy is all about creating lasting memories. “I remember how much I wished that one of those kids on board could have been me,” he says, recalling his own childhood. “I love being able to share this experience with families, but especially with the younger kids.” If you’re looking for a fun day on the water, a chance to see some amazing wildlife, and to share a great time with your loved ones, Captain Doug’s charter is the trip for you.
Off the Water & On the Grill
When Captain Doug isn’t on the water, his second favorite hobby is golf. “The Cape has some great golf courses, and it’s a lot of fun to spend some time with my wife out on the links,” he says, though he’s quick to admit, “I’m a much better fisherman than I am a golfer.” When it comes to eating the catch, his favorite fish are tuna or fluke, but he leaves the cooking to his wife, whom he calls “a wonderful cook.”
For more information or to book a trip, you can visit the St. Pete Sport Fishing website at www.StPeteSportfishing.com or call 508-284-8511.