Charlie Hagler
Ever hear of Todd Ballentine, a Lowcountry naturalist who lives and breathes Hilton Head ecology? No worries if you haven’t because theres a good chance you’ll get to meet Charlie Hagler, another Hilton Head native who probably has pluff mud cruising through his veins.
Born into the Southeastern seas of the U.S., Charlie set out on his own to discover the icy seas of the Northwest. A natural-born guide, he no doubt found himself leading trips in Resurrection Bay of Alaska and San Juan Island in Washington state. He’s an absolute joy on the water.
With Charlie, you find yourself discovering the delicate intricacies within the salt marsh fused with all the best stories any good waterman has stashed away in his memory.
Richard Brendel
Captain Richard “Dicky” Brendel is home when he’s on the Folly River. He’s a longtime waterman, USGC certified Captain, an avid surfer, and quick with a one-liner that will definitely make you grin or at least stare at him with curiosity.
He loves his salt marsh estuarine home and has a passion for sharing it with anyone asking for a look. When he’s not on the water, you can find him consulting with local musicians and entrepreneurs or cutting a fine rug on a Folly Beach dance floor.
Richard’s heart is overflowing with good, salty love, and you’ll be lucky to feel that even for just a two-hour tour.
Kate Barattini
Kate is a friendly surfer and thrives in saltwater. When she graduated from the College of Charleston with a geology degree, she decided the best career path she should take would be the river’s path.
She has been a guide at Flipper Finders for five years, and we are ever grateful for her endless stoke and positivity. After a tour with Kate, you’ll want to take on the world as you’ll most likely be charged with new energy. We must caution that her excitement about her estuarine home is quite infectious and will spread.
If you find yourself in need of another dose of Kate, you’re sure to find her and all 10 toes on the nose in the surf of Folly Beach or another one of our 35 alluring barrier islands. You can also find her slinging drinks for thirsty Folly folks at The Drop In on Center St.