Everglades City
by Captain Mike Merritt
Mentoring young people to achieve success in their chosen paths has always been a passion of mine.
I believe our community thrives when we invest in the growth and development of both young men and women, helping them become confident and skilled professionals. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of mentoring a few individuals, and I hope this practice continues to grow in our small town so we can support the success of the next generation together.
Five years ago, I decided to help someone build a fishing charter business. For years, I had watched young people in Chokoloskee running their boats in the bay, playing, and fishing just as I did when I was growing up. I realized that, with the right support, some of these kids could become the next generation of successful fishing guides in our town.
I approached one of these young people when he was in high school, probably in 10th or 11th grade. When I asked him what he wanted to do after graduation, he said he wasn’t sure but thought about getting his Captain’s License and maybe running airboats. I suggested that becoming a fishing guide could give him independence and a rewarding career, but he wasn’t certain. Over the next two years, we had several conversations about his future. As graduation approached, I spoke with him again. I told him I would help him build his business, buy a boat, and find clients—but I needed a definitive answer, or I would find someone else to help. After discussing it with his grandparents, he came back to me with a yes.
The rest is history! Today, Kyle McMillin runs a thriving guide service and has been in business for three years. His hard work and dedication have paid off. In just one year, he paid off his first boat, and by his second year, he had saved enough to buy a newer boat with a brand-new motor. He has built a loyal client base and works tirelessly, even seven days a week if needed. Kyle’s positive attitude and strong work ethic have set him up for success, and he is now committed to paying it forward by helping the next generation.
I’m currently mentoring another young person, Chase Stokes a high school junior who is eager to become a fishing guide after graduation. He is already an avid fisherman and wants to learn more about the business. To help him get a feel for the job, I plan to take him on my Saturday charters so he can experience working with clients and understand how the day unfolds. Chase has the right attitude and a willingness to help, and I believe he’ll become one of Everglades City’s next great fishing guides.
Our town also has examples of successful mentorship within families. Captain Bobby Johnson has been mentoring his son, Slade Johnson. Slade used a scholarship for Everglades City graduates to earn his Captain’s License early. With his father’s guidance, he started his own guide business shortly after graduation, and now they run charters together as a father-son team.
Mentorship isn’t just about fishing. Whether it’s electricians, plumbers, A/C technicians, mechanics, or other trades, anyone with skills and experience can help the next generation succeed. Taking on a mentee or simply offering encouragement and guidance can have a profound impact.
When we help young people succeed, it benefits the entire community, creating a chain reaction that carries on for generations. I feel honored to do my part by teaching young people the trade I love. Fishing is deeply rooted in our town’s history, and it’s rewarding to see locals carry on that legacy. Some of these young people are second, third, fourth, or even fifth-generation fishermen, bringing a rich heritage with them every time they set out on the water.
Not everyone has the ability to mentor directly, but we can all encourage and guide the youth in our community. So, when you see young fishermen like Kyle and Chase around town, remember to support them and pay it forward.
