Meet our Captains
At Bearded Boat Captain, we provide licensed and insured captains to deliver safe, professional, and unforgettable lake day experiences on Table Rock Lake, Lake of the Ozarks, and the Branson area. Our team combines expert knowledge with unmatched customer service to make your lake adventure effortless.
Owners & Founders
Bryan Wilson
Founder/Owner - U.S.C.G Licensed Captain
Bryan Wilson, ‘The Bearded Captain,’ is a fishing guide, founder of Bearded Boat Captain, and a USCG licensed captain. With extensive boating experience across Missouri, Bryan is also an ordained minister and is passionate about providing safe, professional, and memorable lake experiences for all guests
Derek Marlin
Owner - U.S.C.G Licensed Captain
Derek Marlin is a fishing guide and the owner of Firehouse Bowfishing. Serving as a firefighter since 2008 and currently a Company Officer at the Battlefield Fire Protection District, Derek brings extensive experience operating boats on Missouri waterways. Known as “Captain Fish,” he is a licensed Captain with the United States Coast Guard and has spent years mastering boat operations. In addition to his firefighting experience, Derek has worked 8 years with the Showboat Branson Belle in Branson, Missouri, holding positions such as medic, engineer, and occasionally taking the helm of the vessel. Derek combines safety, professionalism, and local knowledge to create fun and memorable lake adventures for every group he guides.
Team Captains
Jack Lorence
Captain
Captain Jack is a USCG licensed captain with years of boating experience and in-depth knowledge of local waterways. He is committed to delivering safe, fun, and memorable experiences, whether it’s a family outing or a sunset cruise. Known for his professionalism and friendly personality, Captain Jack ensures every trip is smooth and enjoyable.
Lester Davis
Captain
Lester has lived and worked on Table Rock Lake his entire life, previously owning and operating Camp Tomahawk Tube Float. He is passionate about helping families and friends enjoy the water safely and creating unforgettable lake day experiences.
John Pate
Captain
John is a retired 911 PD/FD Communications Officer with 27 years of experience. Born in Southern California and raised in the Branson Tri-Lakes area, he has been an avid outdoorsman for 40 years. John is a devoted husband, father, and ‘Poppy’ to four grandchildren, bringing both professionalism and a personal touch to every lake trip.