About Your Guide

Hello, my name is Gage Shackelford, and I’m the owner and operator of Backwoods Tours, a top-rated boat tour agency serving Ocala, Dunnellon, The Villages, and other surrounding areas. As a U.S. Marine veteran, I’ve always had a deep love for the outdoors, and that passion has shaped my entire life. Though I moved around a lot growing up,

Hello, my name is Gage Shackelford, and I’m the owner and operator of Backwoods Tours, a top-rated boat tour agency serving Ocala, Dunnellon, The Villages, and other surrounding areas. As a U.S. Marine veteran, I’ve always had a deep love for the outdoors, and that passion has shaped my entire life. Though I moved around a lot growing up, one thing remained constant—my love for nature, adventure, and being on the water. Whether it was hunting in the backwoods or fishing local ponds at just 8 years old, the outdoors always felt like home.

Now, I have the privilege of sharing that same passion with my family - especially my two kids, who love nothing more than spending time out on the boat with their dad. Watching them experience the same thrill I felt as a kid—reeling in their first fish, spotting wildlife, or just enjoying the peacefulness of the water—reminds me why I started Backwoods Tours.

At Backwoods Tours, my goal is to provide unforgettable experiences on the water by offering fishing trips, boat tours, and jet ski rentals that allow you to explore the beautiful waterways of Ocala, Dunnellon, and it’s surrounding areas. I take pride in customizing every trip to ensure my guests get the adventure they’re looking for. Whether you’re a first-time angler, an experienced fisherman chasing a trophy catch, or a family looking for a unique tour and travel experience, I’m here to make it happen.