FAQ

  • I’ve never done this before. How should I get started?
    Give me a call or send an email giving me the best times to contact you along with a daytime, nighttime and cell phone number and I’ll call you normally, within the same hour. Ask any questions, I’m always willing to help you choose the right charter package.
  • Does the boat have a bathroom on it?
    No, although, I do have alternative methods if needed and we’re usually not too far from a public facility.
  • Do I need a fishing license?
    No. I supply the proper license and stamps for up to 4 anglers. The only tag not supplied is for tarpon.
  • What should I bring with me on the boat?
    Depending on the length of charter bring snack foods or sandwich, drinks, camera, hat, sunblock and a rain jacket if the weather looks like rain. I supply an ice chest w/ice for your food and drinks.
  • Is the boat safe for me and my entire family?
    Yes. I am federally licensed by the United States Coast Guard. My vessel has all the safety features and communications equipment. I will brief you at the beginning of the trip about where to find life jackets, first aid kit, and fire extinguishers. You can enjoy the trip knowing that you’re safe and secure with a seasoned professional.
  • Do we still fish on rainy days?
    Yes, we normally fish on rainy days; however, depending on winds, thunderstorms and chances of lightning there is always a chance we may cancel. If we do fish, I make every effort to avoid those areas of rain. I will call the evening prior to the trip to confirm the weather conditions. If you are in doubt about the weather, always ask me before you decide to cancel your trip. Surprisingly we have some of our best fish catching days on rainy stormy looking days.
  • Why is the capacity of the boat limited to 4 people?
    Mandated by the United States Coast Guard I’m only allowed to have six paying customers on board and I have no control over this six paying passenger law. However, I do have control over the number of passengers I can fish effectively. Unlike the large offshore party boats where everyone is fishing straight down; we are casting toward certain areas where the fish have congregated. Even though my vessel can carry six anglers this type of inshore fishing would not allow everyone to successfully catch fish So if you have more than four people… I do offer multi-boat charters for larger groups. I would be glad to set up two or more boats utilizing my other professional captains with boats comparable to mine, to take your group fishing.
  • What are the chances of a successful charter?
    Extremely high, although I cannot guarantee the fish will bite, after thousands of trips I’ve been fortunate enough to catch fish on every charter. With extensive knowledge about the waters, we’ll fishing; it’s my goal to make your trip the best fishing outing you’ve ever experienced. Depending on the weather, wind and tidal conditions I will discuss with you the best options for a productive trip outlining which species of fish we should target.
  • What type of fishing can I expect?
    I specialize in quality inshore light tackle fishing matching the equipment to the species of fish targeted. Although light tackle does not necessarily mean we only catch small fish it’s not uncommon to catch a much larger trophy size. I will recommend what types of fishing will be most productive but do everything possible to tailor it to your desires.
  • I want to catch Big Fish… Can you help me?
    Targeting big fish is my area of expertise, but keep in mind that targeting only big fish can limit the total numbers of fish caught. What this basically means is we may do more fishing than actual catching as the big ones do not cooperate all the time. During late spring and early summer, we have tremendous success on large tarpon, Snook, Redfish, mackerel, and sharks… ask me when you inquire.
  • What kind of bait do you use?
    I use sardines, mackerel, pinfish, shrimp, grunts, blue runners and assorted artificial lures. The bait used depends on the type of fishing we do and the time of year. Live baits are always a favorite usually resulting in more numbers. However, if you’re interested in using or learning to use artificial lures, I have mastered this skill and I’m always willing to teach you.
  • Do you practice catch and release?
    Yes and encourage this practice, because it saves one of our most valuable resources. Today, most inshore waters experience tremendous fishing pressure by the sheer volume of anglers. Most of our inshore and offshore species have bag and size regulations and under no circumstances will an illegal fish be kept. However, it’s ok if you want to keep a few fish for dinner.
  • What happens to the fish I catch?
    If not released and you’re planning on keeping some for dinner they’re kept in the live well. I will gladly fillet your catch and place the fillets gallon sized bags.
  • How do I know if the boat is available for the date I want?
    When you call to reserve one or more days, I can usually make arrangements to accommodate you or have one of my on-staff captains be of service. The sooner you make you’re booking the better.
  • What is the deposit and cancellation policy?
    I normally take a $200 deposit on a credit card. You can cancel the trip 24 hours in advance and pay no fee. All trips canceled after 24 hours are charged a $100 cancellation fee. If you fail to show up, at the designated time and place, for your fishing charter, your credit card will be charged an additional $200. If the captain cancels the charter due to weather or any other reason, you will receive a complete 100% refund.
  • Is gratuity expected and how much?
    Gratuities are never expected but greatly appreciated. If the captain did a good job, made the trip enjoyable and you had a good time you might consider rewarding those efforts. 15%-20% is standard.
  • Why do fishing charters cost so much?
    Maintaining and operating a safe, properly outfitted quality fishing vessel is expensive and today’s fuel costs alone are staggering. There are many additional costs that one never sees on a fishing charter. For example, charter insurance, launch and dock fees, bait, boat maintenance, and many other factors. You get what you pay for in charter vessels, and I strive to keep my costs down to give you the best value in the area. The excitement of chartering your own guide, catching fish and having a tremendous outdoor experience while making memories to last a lifetime… is well worth the expense.
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