In 1972, Skip began his esteemed career on the Ft. Lauderdale charter docks, never dreaming he would travel to over 25 countries as Captain of Jerry Dunaway's Madam and Hooker on an 11 year quest to break billfish records. Including his career aboard the Hooker, a few other sport fishing programs were privy to his expertise, and Smith managed to amass a total 49 IGFA world records to date.
Responsible for endless trans-Atlantic and trans-Pacific crossings, in addition to the owners and their guests, countless charters and up to six crewmembers, Smith is a born leader. As President of Smith-Merritt Insurance, Inc. in Pompano Beach, Florida, he continues to maintain the day-to-day operations of a multi-million dollar yacht insurance company while serving on several industry boards, including Chair of the IGFA's prestigious Tommy Gifford Award - which is presented to legendary captain and crew nominees who are selected by a committee of internationally-renowned captains and mates.
With Smith's tight connection to custom-built sport boats, he helped create the Custom Shootout in 2002 - presenting the industry an opportunity to give back and benefit many charitable organizations. 14 years later, Skip’s Tournaments has blossomed into a brand that no one could have predicted.
Captain Skip Smith has spent a lifetime in the sport fishing business and has gained a unique understanding of the importance fishing tournaments are to that business. By recognizing all those who support and compete in his events, he continues to take his tournaments to an unmatched level of exposure.