Biloxi native, Mark Compton, grew up fishing the Gulf waters aboard the HAPPY LANDING with his father, John Compton, Sr., a Chandeleur Islands charter boat captain and electrician.
When the elder Compton’s health no longer allowed him to lead the business, Mark, the youngest of the sons, took the reins. He earned his USCG 100-ton Masters License thus becoming captain of the fleet. During this tenure, the opportunity to purchase a boat in need of “rescue” from the bayous of Alabama. Mark and his brother, John Jr., purchased the SILVER KING III and set about to bring her back to her previous glory. The work was completed by the same Covacevich shipyard in which she was first created and, upon completion, was re-christened by her first master builder, “Tony Jack” Covacevich. The SILVER KING III then took her place in the Chandeleur Charter fleet.
Mark’s passion for fishing is evident in the expressed appreciation of his charter patrons. Guests are not merely brought out in the water to fish, they are regaled with stories of the Coast, many jokes and expert tips making it more than just a ‘fishing trip’, but rather an experience to remember.
Sadly, the SILVER KING III met her untimely end with the winds and waves of Hurricane Katrina, but Mark continues honoring his heritage and perfecting his trade aboard the MS BIGGY.
The Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum is pleased to honor Captain Mark Compton for his more than forty years and continued expertise and dedication to the seafood industry of the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
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