About Us

On April 6, 2012, the fishing community lost a great angler, icon, and friend, Jose Wejebe, host of the immensely popular saltwater fishing television show, Spanish Fly. Through his show and his adventures, Jose shared his passion for fishing and a lifestyle that touched and inspired anglers around the world. At the same time, Jose encouraged conservation, leading his viewers by example to take better care of the environment they so enjoy.

Jose Wejebe never forgot his humble beginnings or those others that helped him find success. Throughout his life and career, Jose unselfishly donated his time, money and equipment to support countless charities including the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, The Marc House, Wounded Warriors, Big Brothers and Big Sisters and many others. The charitable work seen on his television series, “Spanish Fly”, documented only a small portion of his generosity. Behind the scenes, he quietly assisted with many more charities throughout the world. He did so out of compassion and kindness, and was humbled by those who expressed their appreciation.

In order to continue Jose’s passion for the marine environment, and dedication to support those who face life-impacting challenges, The Jose Wejebe Memorial Foundation was founded in April 2012. The Foundation will honor Jose’s legacy by continuing his charitable efforts.

Jose Wejebe Memorial Foundation is a 501(c)3 charitable organization under the tax-exempt code, and headquartered in the Florida Keys. The mission of the Jose Wejebe Memorial Foundation is to honor Jose’s legacy by matching his passion for conservation, education, and making fishing dreams come true.

“The Spanish Fly spirit lives in all of us.”

The Foundation has worked with multiple organizations to refer individuals that can benefit from leaving reality at the dock, and live in the moment on the water. These include Make a Wish, the Outdoor Dream Foundation, the VA Hospital of Miami, and Wesley House as well as others.

Making fishing dreams come true has been our main focus to be bring some relief to those with life impacting challenges, circumstances over the past few years have led us to broaden our reach to meet other needs. We have assisted fishing communities after major hurricanes and supported local aid organizations during the height of the pandemic. We are also building our Legacy Mentorship Program.

The foundation does take applications directly. If you know someone facing a life impacting challenge, please refer them. We are focused on providing a trip that will not only boost morale, and make memories, but also instill individuals with the same passion for conservation and nature that Jose had.

We have brought over 490 individuals on the water and will continue our relief, conservation, and education efforts. With your support we have been able to make a difference!

Making fishing dreams come true for individuals with life impacting challenges for Veterans, children in foster care, families with life threatening illness or trauma, and first responders. During a trip individuals may experience:

• An onsite visit to Coral Reef Restoration Projects with Plant A Million Corals),
• Onsite Visit to the Turtle Hospital they rescue, rehabilitation, and release Sea Turtles
• A tour of the Dolphin Research Center and education on the cognitive and behavioral research with marine mammals
• Ecotour with Key West Extreme Adventures with an up close view of sharks, dolphins, and turtles in their native habitat.
• Leave reality at the dock to fish and relax in the beautiful waters of the Florida Keys
• Customized, once in a lifetime Keys experience

After Hurricane Irma tore through the Florida Keys we joined together and removed over 300,000 lbs of debris on land and in the water.

After Irma it was evident that this was a cause that Jose would have been in favor of. When disaster strikes we lend what we can by supporting the fishing community through disaster response, boots on ground, and relief through local organizations.

Pairing local kids with local guides to give them the tools and knowledge needed to responsibly, safely, and ethically enjoy our local fishery.

If you are interested in learning more on this program please contact us.