Testimonials
John Perez Edenton, NC
Founder, Valor & Honor Outdoors
I have fished several times with Jim for bass over the years and every event has been fantastic! The best part is not only catching lots of bass but learning from Jim. He’s a student of bass fishing and I still use a lot of the techniques he’s taught me. He understands how a bass thinks and I’m amazed at his ability to read a lake and know where the fish will be. He also has hosted combat veterans for us through our non-profit and donated his time and services. The time on the water has been healing for them and it’s a trip everyone looks forward to. We can’t wait for the next adventure! If you have the opportunity to fish with Great Explorers Guide Service you need to take advantage of it – you won’t be disappointed!
Pastor John FisherApopka, FL
I have had the opportunity to fish with professional fishermen, guides and a multitude of other types of anglers. There is no one that I would rather fish with than Jim. His knowledge and ability to read the waters and produce are unparalleled.
Pastor Ross Runnels St. Cloud, FL
I often say I don’t like fishing; I like catching. That is why I only freshwater fish with Jim Sweatman. You will be on top of the fish, with all the right gear, and he will teach you the perfect technique. I have never fished with anyone who is so in tune with what is going on under the water. He is the “Aquaman” of fresh water lakes.
Picture of Ross’s son-in-law on a trip with Pastor Ross and Jim. This 9lber was on the first cast!
Jeff Holland Orlando, FL
Former top 11% in B.A.S.S. Angler of the Year Southern Opens
Retired Reedy Creek Environmental Water Quality Boss
Jim is an amazing guide of faith, fishing, and Florida’s vast ecosystem experiences. After a long and successful career in fisheries management, his guiding service allows everyone to gain from his enthusiasm and knowledge. The eco-fishing trips I’ve taken with Jim over diverse waters in Florida have been priceless. As one of Florida’s top fishing experts, in my opinion he is the only guide to call when looking to catch all species of fish.
Jeff took this picture while on a trip with Jim in the Ocala Forest.
Dan Sardina Kissimmee, FL
Osceola County School Teacher for 20+ years
Former Weber University Fishing Coach
Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission
Fish Orlando Family Fishing Coordinator
A fishing trip with Jim Sweatman involves much more than catching fish. Jim teaches you how to catch fish and why you caught them. His precise methods of teaching gives his clients the ability to locate fish on their own. Jim has over 30 years’ experience as a fisheries biologist, and he enjoys sharing his vast knowledge of the aquatic world of fish. Most guides simply give their clients the opportunity to catch fish, Jim teaches them how to fish. No matter what your skill level is, novice to professional fisherman, Jim will advance your fishing knowledge.
Gary Cain Orlando, FL
Retired CEO of Boy’s & Girl’s Clubs of Central Florida
I know of no better fisherman than Jim Sweatman. I’ve fished with Jim at least 34 times without a bad trip. As a bonus, Jim knows all of the grasses in a body of water as well as the ecology of the area where he is fishing. I highly recommend Jim!
Side Note: Gary was with Jim when he caught 10 trophy bass in 6 hours (9 on buzz baits) in May 2004 while fishing Lake Tohopekaliga during the drawdown. Jim’s best 5 went 55 lbs!
Rick Spence Tavares, FL
Lake County Fire Department Chaplain
I have been on multiple fishing excursions with Jim. It has been truly amazing. Every trip, I learn so much. Jim has tremendous knowledge of fishing/fish behavior, bird life, aquatic plants, and so much more in the great outdoors. The only thing that exceeds his knowledge is the passion and
enthusiasm for sharing his love of the outdoor life. When I am in the central Florida area, I will always attempt to make the time to get out on the water with Jim.
Rick is holding a trophy bass caught in March 2024 on an Ocala Forest Lake
Josh Gentile Orlando, FL
Osceola County Firefighter/EMT
This picture was from a recent trip to an Ocala Forest Lake in 2024 where they caught 73 bass in 6 hours with the best 5 going over 30lbs.
