OUR TEAM
Capt. Jeremy Chavez
Camp Director - Backcountry Guide
Jeremy is from Texas and has spent the last fifteen years developing remarkable fishing expertise in shallow water in Texas, Louisiana, and Florida. In The Keys, his results with the campers have been great. Jeremy is truly a dedicated captain whom the campers really identify with. A great teacher whom the campers cannot get enough of.
281-546-1393
Capt. Brian Cone
Offshore Guide
In the Florida Keys, Captain Brian Cone is a legend when it comes to hunting dolphin, tuna, snapper and many other offshore species. When you fish on the Contagious you not only catch fish, but you learn so much about Cone’s fishing techniques. Captain Cone was raised in the Keys exploring the ocean since he was just a little tyke. His vast knowledge of the ocean and its marine life will keep you fascinated and wanting more. His passion and intensity for fishing will surely make your day on the water a memory you will never forget.
305-481-7689
Capt. Hudson McEntire
Backcountry Guide
Hudson McEntire, originally from Alabama, has built his life around the water. After earning a degree in geology and forestry, he spent 10 years as a deckhand before becoming a captain. He has guided trout trips in Colorado and Wyoming and now splits his time between Louisiana in winter and Florida in summer, running his own charter company and sharing his passion for fishing with anglers of all skill levels.
334-546-2556
Capt. Dan Diez
Backcountry Guide
For Dan Diez, fishing is more than a pastime — it’s part of who he is. It’s what drives him to spend long nights beneath Miami’s bridges, quietly stalking giant tarpon from a canoe with a fly rod in hand. While the excitement of the chase fuels his passion, its deeper roots lie in a family story shaped by Cuban traditions, hardship, and the search for freedom. For Dan, the water is more than a place to fish — it represents a connection to his heritage and a freedom that never goes unappreciated.
786-281-5763
Bennett Armstrong
Leader
Bennett is from Charleston, South Carolina and is a senior at Clemson University. A former camper, he has spent years at Keys Fishing Camp developing his skills and passion for saltwater fishing.
After progressing through the program, Bennett returned as a counselor, bringing firsthand knowledge of the camper experience. He now helps lead on the water, mentors campers, and supports a positive, team-focused environment, ensuring every participant has a safe, fun, and memorable week at camp.
Erik Gillen
Leader
Erik is from Houston, Texas and is currently a junior at the University of Texas. He began his journey at Keys Fishing Camp as a camper, where he developed a strong passion for saltwater fishing and the overall camp experience.
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After several summers in the program, Erik returned as a counselor, bringing energy, enthusiasm, and a deep understanding of camper growth. He enjoys mentoring young anglers, building confidence, and helping each camper learn new skills while making the most of their time on the water.
Justin Byrnes
Leader
Justin is from Denver, Colorado and has been passionate about fishing for as long as he can remember. He first joined Keys Fishing Camp as a camper, spending multiple summers building his skills and foundation in saltwater fishing.
After years in the program, Justin returned as a counselor, bringing both experience and enthusiasm to the team. He enjoys working with campers in a hands-on setting, sharing techniques, and helping create a fun, supportive environment both on and off the water.