Most fishing guides require at least a 20% deposit to secure a day on their boat for you. Some more and be skeptical if it is less. This is normal practice when booking a fishing charter. Payment in full is not common but sometimes requested for high volume fishing times.

What's the best way to Know I have a Charter Booked

Make Sure.... you get something in writing, Fax or email from your guide or booking agent. On that piece of writing make sure it has the date of your charter, the amount you have deposited, the balance due at the boat and preferred method of payment, the time or instructions to set up the time, the guides phone number preferably his cell, and directions to his marina. At least this way you know your fishing guide is serious about your trip. The more information you get on this "confirmation" the least headache you will have at the dock.

Payment

It is not uncommon for a fishing guide to not accept credit cards. Make sure you know of this before you book. Travelers Checks, and cash are generally the only other payments taken. Don't bring a personal check unless you cleared it with your fishing guide prior.

Cancellation Policy

Remember the confirmation mentioned above.. Make sure the cancellation policy is written on there. how many days and what the penalty is. Also make sure you know the weather cancellation policy. Some guides charge the deposit even on a bad weather day.

Boat Amenities

Is there a bathroom on the boat?

Ask your captain what the Potty drill is on his boat, especially if bringing a female. Again clear things up BEFORE you book. Flats boats and bay boats do not usually have a head however they are in shallow waters where it is acceptable to wade and relieve yourself if needed. Men are expected to use the plumbing god has given. Best thing is to Use the head at the dock before departing no matter.

Should I bring my own fishing gear?

You can bring anything you like to carry check it out with your guide prior to booking to make sure; however, most guides carry all the gear you need for your trip. If you do decide to bring your own gear please check with your captain to ask what kind of lines and whatnots to put on your rod and reel. Fly fishermen should ask their guide what is best.

What should we bring?

Most guides provide ice and sometimes bottled water. You should be prepared to bring whatever you want to eat, drinks (water, Gatorade, sodas, and ask about alcohol policy on the boat.) sunscreen lotion (not spray please), a good pair of polarized sunglasses, white soled shoes, a jacket on cool or rainy days, a hat, and maybe a camera. Remember, if you are flats fishing our guides have limited space in boats. No matter what bring only what you think you will need, Please do not move in.

NOTE: Don't forget your meds, and if you are on antibiotics make sure sun exposure will not wreck you..

What is supplied?

Each guide provides different items, but you can be sure that they will have the following: Rods, reels, bait, tackle, and plenty of ice.

How many people can I bring on my charter?

Typically flats boats carry a maximum of 2, Bay Boats carry up to 4 and on wreck fishing typically 4. Deep sea boats carry up to 6. It does not matter if one of the people is not fishing or if one of the people is a baby; they are still a heartbeat and that is all that matters to the Coast Guard that mandates how many people we can carry on our boats.

How many fish will I catch?

Sounds funny huh? But we get this question all the time. When we can predict this we won’t be taking you fishing anymore. Seriously though, it depends on what we fish for, when we fish for it, how well you do fishing for it, and how many fish we see for the day of fishing that you have set forth to see and catch fish......
In other words, we have no idea.

Can I mount my fish?

Catch a trophy? Want to take it home? Let your guide know you are looking for a mount so that he gets the proper info from your catch.

NOTE: You do not have to kill a fish to mount it

Can I Keep my fish?

Take this up with your captain. Every boat has different catch and kill policies. Make sure you iron this out before you go out.

Will I get seasick on my charter?

If you feel as though you or someone in your group has a problem with motion sickness please consider avoidance of offshore fishing charters. If you still intend on going offshore please take a precautionary drug such as Dramamine, Bonine or Triptone at least 45 minutes prior to your charter's departure. People typically do not get seasick on the flats or in the backcountry. No refunds will be issued due to seasickness.

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