Meet the Boat Behind the Memories at Five O'Clock Charlie Tours

One of the questions I get asked all the time is, "Captain John, what kind of boat are we going to be fishing on?"

My answer is simple.

You're going to be fishing aboard a proven fishing machine that has safely carried thousands of guests throughout Tampa Bay, Anna Maria Island, Egmont Key, and the surrounding Gulf waters.

At Five O'Clock Charlie Tours, my boat isn't just transportation. It's my office, my classroom, and the platform where countless memories have been made over the years.

A Proven Platform for Tampa Bay

Since 2017, I have operated a 2012 Parker SE Center Console, and I couldn't be happier with the decision.

Before purchasing the Parker, I operated a Hurricane deck boat. While the Hurricane served its purpose, as my charter business grew, I realized I needed a vessel specifically designed for serious fishing while still providing comfort and safety for families and first-time anglers.

The Parker checked every box.

Known throughout the boating community for their rugged construction, reliability, and seaworthiness, Parker boats have earned a reputation as some of the toughest boats on the water. Built with simplicity and durability in mind, these boats are designed to handle everything from shallow inshore waters to nearshore Gulf fishing.

For a charter captain, reliability isn't a luxury—it's a necessity.

Powered to Perform

Powering the Parker is a dependable 225 horsepower Tohatsu four-stroke outboard.

The 225 Tohatsu provides excellent fuel efficiency, quiet operation, and plenty of power to comfortably transport guests to fishing grounds throughout Tampa Bay and the nearshore Gulf waters. Whether we're running to the flats chasing Snook and Redfish or heading offshore in search of Cobia and other reef species, the Tohatsu has consistently proven itself to be reliable and economical.

A charter captain quickly learns that dependable equipment means more time fishing and less time sitting at the dock waiting for repairs.

Modern Electronics for Finding Fish and Safe Navigation

The boat is equipped with a full suite of Garmin marine electronics that help safely navigate the waters of Tampa Bay while locating productive fishing areas.

Modern GPS mapping, sonar, and navigation equipment allow me to safely operate in changing weather conditions, navigate shallow water, identify structure, and put guests on fish.

Of course, electronics are only tools. Years of local knowledge and thousands of hours on Tampa Bay are what truly put fish in the boat. Electronics simply help fine-tune the process.

Garmin Kraken: The Hardest Working Crew Member On Board

Recently, I upgraded to a Garmin Kraken trolling motor, and it has quickly become one of the hardest-working pieces of equipment on the boat.

A quality trolling motor is essential when fishing Tampa Bay. Whether we're quietly stalking Redfish on shallow flats, holding position on a school of Cobia, or working structure for Snapper and Grouper, precise boat control makes all the difference.

After years of relying on various trolling motor systems, I made the switch to the Garmin Kraken. The motor has provided exceptional boat control, excellent integration with my Garmin electronics, and the reliability that I demand from equipment used in a professional charter operation.

As any salty captain knows, equipment either earns its place on the boat or it gets replaced.

The Kraken has earned its spot.

Comfort for the Entire Family

While the Parker is a serious fishing platform, it also offers a stable and comfortable ride for guests of all ages.

The spacious deck layout allows plenty of room for up to six passengers to fish comfortably without constantly bumping elbows. Families appreciate the secure feel of the boat, while experienced anglers appreciate the uncluttered fishing space.

Whether you're six years old and catching your very first fish or a seasoned angler chasing your personal best, the boat is designed to provide a safe and enjoyable experience.

Safety Always Comes First

As a United States Coast Guard licensed and insured captain, safety has always been my number one priority.

The vessel carries all required Coast Guard safety equipment, including life jackets, emergency signaling devices, marine communications equipment, and first aid supplies.

Every trip begins with a careful review of weather conditions and a complete inspection of the vessel. If conditions are unsafe, we simply reschedule. Fish can wait.

More Than Just a Boat

Over the years, this Parker has witnessed first fish, family vacations, military reunions, dolphin encounters, marriage proposals, breathtaking sunsets, and memories that will last a lifetime.

For many guests, a day aboard Five O'Clock Charlie Tours becomes the highlight of their Florida vacation.

I look forward to welcoming you aboard and showing you why I trust this Parker every single day.

See you on the water.

Captain John Blenker
Five O'Clock Charlie Tours & Charters, Inc.
Serving Palmetto, Bradenton, Anna Maria Island, Tampa Bay, and the surrounding Gulf waters.