As seen in Season 18, Episode 3: “Mud Boat Adventures of Brian Sawyer”
If you’ve ever dreamed of gliding through the shallow, winding creeks of Florida’s Gulf Coast in search of elusive wintertime redfish, trout, and sheepshead, then Season 18, Episode 3 of Reel Animals TV is a must-watch. Titled “Mud Boat Adventures of Brian Sawyer,” this episode follows Captain Brian Sawyer as he teams up with Mike Anderson to explore the remote backcountry waters of Homosassa, Florida—and what they uncover is nothing short of spectacular.
A Unique Winter Fishing Adventure
In this exciting episode, viewers are taken on a wintertime journey through Homosassa’s ultra-shallow estuaries—places few boats can access. During winter’s negative low tides, water levels drop drastically, and fish get trapped in deep pockets and troughs far off the beaten path. But getting there isn’t easy. That’s where Captain Brian Sawyer’s surface-drive mud boat comes in.
Unlike traditional outboard boats, a mud boat is equipped with a surface-drive engine that allows anglers to navigate through razor-thin waters, grass flats, and oyster-laden shallows without running aground. This is the secret weapon that enables Brian and Mike to reach isolated areas teeming with fish when most boats wouldn’t even make it out of the marina.
This method of fishing—Homosassa mud boat fishing—is a game-changer for anglers looking for a challenge and a thrill. The mud boat grants access to waters that are otherwise off-limits, creating opportunities for unforgettable catches and an up-close experience with Florida’s raw and rugged coastal beauty.
Target Species: Redfish, Trout, and Sheepshead
During the episode, Captain Brian and Mike target three of the most sought-after inshore game fish: Redfish, Spotted Seatrout, and Sheepshead.
- Redfish are known for their power and willingness to strike even in cold conditions, especially when trapped in warm, sun-soaked depressions.
- Trout congregate in deeper potholes during winter, offering fast action when located.
- Sheepshead, the bait-stealing bandits of the flats, are plentiful around rocks and structure, and their fight is always worth the effort.
Watching these two experienced anglers locate and land fish in such shallow, remote water highlights both the skill of the captain and the advantages of the specialized mud boat setup.
Meet Captain Brian Sawyer
Captain Brian Sawyer is a seasoned guide and outdoorsman based in Homosassa, FL. With years of experience navigating the area’s pristine estuaries, he offers unforgettable Homosassa fishing charter experiences year-round. But it’s during the cooler months that his mud boat really shines.
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or someone looking for a one-of-a-kind Florida fishing trip, Captain Brian delivers a charter experience that blends skill, adventure, and a deep respect for nature. His passion for the sport and his encyclopedic knowledge of the Homosassa backcountry make every outing a memorable one.
The Reel Animals Experience
For those unfamiliar, Reel Animals Fishing Show, hosted by Captain Mike Anderson, is one of the most respected fishing programs in the U.S., bringing real-world angling adventures to viewers for nearly two decades. The show focuses on inshore and offshore fishing across Florida and beyond, often highlighting the guides who make these trips possible.
Having Captain Brian featured on Season 18, Episode 3 is a testament to his expertise and the uniqueness of his fishing approach. The episode is not just a fishing trip—it’s an inside look at a very special style of angling only possible in this corner of Florida, and only with the right captain and the right gear.
Book Your Homosassa Mud Boat Fishing Trip
If watching Mud Boat Adventures of Brian Sawyer sparks your curiosity or awakens your inner angler, there’s no better way to experience it than firsthand. With Captain Brian Sawyer, you’ll have access to the same remote, productive waters seen on Reel Animals TV—and maybe even more.
Whether you’re targeting winter redfish in the flats or exploring year-round opportunities inshore, Captain Brian provides custom Homosassa fishing charters designed for both adventure and success.
Contact Captain Brian Sawyer Today
Book your Homosassa mud boat fishing adventure today with Captain Brian Sawyer. Call Captain Brian Sawyer today at 863-712-5555 to reserve your spot and experience Florida’s backcountry like never before.
Unlock the shallow-water secrets of Homosassa—where mud boats rule, and the fish are waiting.



