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Captain Mike started early on boats on the South Shore of Long Island at the age of 14, working for several of the Captree Party Boats fishing for fluke, weakfish and bluefish. Lastly, he mated for the Joseph Boats during the climax of the Night Blue fishery. After receiving an Associates Degree at Farmingdale Ag and Tech, Capt. Mike put a season in long-lining cod and tilefish. His first introduction to the North Fork was working for Captain Dave Brennan of the Peconic Star as first mate in 1982.
After experiencing the quality of the fishing the North Fork had over the South Shore, Orient Point became the port of interest for Mike. The Prime Time III in Orient, skippered by Captain Larry Ciccotto, hired him immediately for his experience gained at Captree. Shortly after a partnership grew and Captain Larry retired to Florida to chase King Mackerel and Sailfish in tropical waters. Every year, Captain Larry visits at two key times of the season; the spring Fluke run and the fall Tog fest. He has a great following and still to this day patrons ask for him kindly.
Mike has been a full-time captain since 1989, fishing seasonally from early May thru mid-December. The last 20 years, the Prime Time III has developed a unique niche in the party boat business, where personal service and a diverse array of clientel make for a one of a kind experience.
First Mate Matthew Ketcham is attending Rhode Island State University, majoring in Marine Aquaculture and Marine Biology and will be graduating in 2010. He has logged several season's on the Port Judith based Frances Fleet and now works full-time on deck with the Prime Time 3 for our Blackfish, Striped Bass, Porgy and Summer Combo Trip, "The Rodbender Special".
First Mate Eric Klien is attending Suffolk Community College and has his Master's License. He has logged many season's with his father Richy Klien from the Great South Bay and Fire Island Inlet area.
Second Mates Kristina Boccio, Skye Prichard and Andrew Boccio lend a hand when fishing heats up. And let’s not forget Biscuit the Jack Russell, our 16 lb. Mascot who greets everyone onboard warmly, especially if you brought chicken or bacon for lunch!
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CAPTAIN MIKE & CREW
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