Captain Chris Willy

Captain Chris Willy, a proud native of Pasadena, TX, has spent his life immersed in the natural beauty of Texas. Growing up surrounded by hunting, fishing, and exploration, Captain Chris has a deep-rooted connection to the natural world. His passion for the outdoors began early, with one of his fondest memories being a unique experience with his uncle. At just three years old, Captain Chris was perched in a cooler with the lid off, tethered to his uncle's waist, wade fishing on the Texas coast. This early adventure sparked a true lifelong love for fishing and adventure.

In the summer of 2024, Captain Chris founded Salty Cat Guide Service, a name that pays tribute to his alma mater, Texas State University, where the Bobcat is the mascot. Salty Cat Guide Service reflects Captain Chris’s commitment to excellence and his Texas roots. With over a decade of experience fishing the Texas coastline, Captain Chris has honed his skills and developed a profound understanding of the local waters.

Captain Chris’s goal on every guided tour is to ensure clients not only catch fish but also gain new knowledge and safely experience the beauty of the Texas coastline that he cherishes. When he is not fishing, Captain Chris runs a wildlife control business, spends quality time with friends, and enjoys life with his loyal Catahoula dog, Dixie.

Whether you’re an experienced angler or a novice eager to learn, Captain Chris Willy and Salty Cat Guide Service promises an unforgettable experience on the waters of the Texas coast.

Certifications and Experience

• Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels (OUVP) License
• 25+ years of Boating Experience
• Wildlife Biologist
• 2x Business Owner
• 30 Years of Hunting and Fishing Experience
• 5 years of Recreational Guiding Experience

A lifelong goal of Captain Chris is to establish a nonprofit guide service dedicated to providing underprivileged and disadvantaged youth with fishing opportunities. This initiative embodies his deep commitment to sharing the joy of fishing and the outdoors with the next generation. 

Through this program, he aims to offer these young people not only a chance to connect with nature but also valuable life skills and the potential for personal growth.

By participating in guided fishing trips with Salty Cat Guide Service, each experience brings Captain Chris closer to realizing his vision of enriching the lives of young individuals. These trips serve as a stepping stone towards his broader mission of helping the next generation discover the transformative power of the outdoors.