First Mate Dustin Richards, better known as Dusty, was truly born with saltwater in his veins. His passion for offshore fishing began at a young age while growing up alongside Captain Scott in the legendary fishing waters of Port Aransas, Texas, where long days on the water built the foundation for a lifetime devoted to the sport.

Dusty has been a core part of the Nauti Girl Sportfishing crew since Captain Scott purchased the boat in 2018. Over the years, he has helped refine the charter’s approach to offshore fishing, shark fishing, and bottom fishing, becoming an essential part of the experience guests enjoy today. Whether preparing tackle before sunrise, coaching anglers through their first big fight, or helping land trophy fish at boatside, Dusty brings patience, professionalism, and contagious enthusiasm to every trip.

During the week, Dustin works as a licensed master plumber, a career that reflects his strong work ethic and problem-solving mindset. On the water, however, he transforms into a highly skilled first mate known for his attention to safety, expert rigging techniques, and ability to make anglers of all experience levels feel comfortable and confident. From first-time families to seasoned offshore fishermen, guests quickly recognize Dusty’s calm coaching style and dedication to helping everyone succeed.

Now in his 30s, Dusty is also a devoted father and family man who understands that fishing trips are about more than catching fish — they’re about creating lifelong memories. His natural leadership and growing expertise have led him to begin working toward earning his U.S. Coast Guard Captain’s License, with the long-term goal of one day carrying forward the Nauti Girl Sportfishing Charter legacy himself.

Fishing knowledge on the Nauti Girl has always been passed down through mentorship and experience. Just as Captain Scott learned from legendary captains such as Captain Robert Wigal of the Scat Cat, Captain Reese Greene of Bill Buster’s Sportfishing, and the iconic Captain Frank Mundus of the famous Cricket II, Dusty is now learning under Captain Scott’s guidance — continuing the tradition of offshore knowledge passed from one generation to the next.

It’s the circle of life on the water: experience shared, skills refined, and passion handed down — ensuring every guest aboard the Nauti Girl benefits from decades of combined offshore fishing knowledge.