Why You Can Trust OC-anic

If there’s one thing I’ve learned in my life, it’s that the ocean has a way of teaching you everything you need to know: patience, respect, resilience, and appreciation for the world around you.

I have spent a large amount of my life in Ocean City, and the water has been part of my story for as long as I can remember. Truthfully, I was on a boat before I could even walk. Some of my earliest memories are out on the water, learning from generations before me and falling in love with the lifestyle that makes this town so special. I have raised my two sons with fishing rods in their hands and want to pass this along to others.

Now, after more than 50 years of captaining experience, I still feel the same excitement every time I leave the dock. Fishing and boating aren’t just hobbies to me; they’re my life. And that passion is exactly why I created OC-anic.

My goal has never been just to take people fishing. I want to help grow a community. I want families, kids, first-time anglers, and lifelong fishermen alike to discover what makes being on the water so meaningful. There’s something special about watching someone reel in their first fish, spot dolphins in the bay, or simply enjoy a sunset from the boat. Those moments stay with people forever.

Over the years, I’ve spent countless hours learning the waters around Ocean City, from offshore fishing grounds to the hidden corners of the bay. Beyond running fishing charters, I also captain tours and experiences for OC Bay Hopper, helping locals and visitors experience the area from a different perspective. Whether I’m guiding a fishing trip, sharing knowledge about local marine life, or simply teaching someone how to bait a hook, I love every part of it.

People often ask me what makes a good captain. Sure, experience matters. Knowing the tides, reading the weather, understanding fish behavior; those things are important. But I believe trust comes from something deeper. It comes from caring about the people on your boat and wanting them to leave with a better appreciation for the ocean than when they arrived.

At OC-anic, that’s exactly what we’re about. We’re here to create experiences that feel authentic, welcoming, and unforgettable. Whether you’ve spent your whole life fishing or you’ve never stepped foot on a boat before, you’re welcome here.

The ocean has given me a lifetime of memories, friendships, and opportunities. My hope is to pass that along to as many people as I can.

Because once the water gets in your blood, it never really leaves.

-Captain Keith Jacobs 100 ton Master Captain