BEN O’FISHAL SPORTFISHING
About Us
THE BOAT
BEN O’FISHAL II
The Ben O’Fishal II 39-foot beauty, originally built in Key West, is a fisherman’s dream and ready to tackle the open seas. She boasts a flybridge with a tall tower for optimal visibility, all new canvas and upholstery, and updated electronics including Garmin GPS in both the bridge and tower. Comfort is key with features like a freshwater sink and hose, full head, cushioned seats, and open windows for a cool breeze.
Anglers will appreciate the 3 huge live wells, rocket launcher for kite fishing, side scan transducer capable of marking the bottom in 2000 ft of water (swordfish), readily accessible tackle drawers, and ample rod storage.
This boat has a rich history, under the ownership of Skippy Nielson, Charlie Scoble, and later Dennis Forgione. During this time, she won numerous tournaments, solidifying her reputation as a champion. With a fresh start and a dedicated captain, this 39′ is ready to write the next chapter in her impressive story!
Full Head (toilet)
Cushioned Seating
Wide Beam
Dual Detroit Diesels
High Quality Tackle
Large Live Bait Capacity
39′ #1 Key West
THE CAPTAIN
Captain Ben Zdan
Captain Ben Zdan was born and raised in Marathon, Florida.
When Ben was young, he started out cleaning boats for some pocket money. Eventually, Ben was offered to join local fishing Captains on some ride-alongs, and he had a blast! By 12 years of age Ben was riding as a mate for various charter Captains around town.
As soon as Ben turned 18, he got his Captain’s License. He went further and also got a 100-ton vessel license.
Captain Ben’s fishing experience is not limited to the Florida Keys either. Captain Ben has mated and captained professionally in the Bahamas, Costa Rica, Mexico, St. Thomas, and Bermuda.
Captain Ben started commercial fishing right around the time the COVID-19 pandemic began. This was unfortunate timing as the demand and prices for lobster and crab saw a significant decline. As a result, Captain Ben decided to return to his first love, charter fishing.
Capain Ben’s favorite fish to catch are Sailfish and big Dolphinfish (Mahi). Captain Ben especially enjoys it when these pelagic fish are in the shallows chasing ballyhoo. But for Captain Ben, nothing beats the thrill of hooking a blue marlin on a teaser pitch bait!
Captain Ben can remember the days when he and his Dad used to fish off the dock, eating hot dogs and catching snapper all night long. They would fall asleep until awoken by the bells on their rods ringing whenever they got a bite.
A lot has changed since then, but Ben still loves to fish and will always treasure those memories.
Through one of his past jobs managing a 52′ Viking out of Duck Key, Captain Ben met his soon-to-be wife, Karly. They have two daughters, Bentley, and Kenna.
This is one of the reasons Captain Ben is so good with kids and loves to fish with families. If you wish to speak with Captain Ben, fill out our contact form or give Captain Ben a call to chat.
