Selecting a Charter Boat
1. Safety should alway be priority when selecting a charter boat. Make sure there are life jackets and know their location on the boat. There should be fire extinquishers onboard. Look at the general appearance of the boat. A well kept boat and well maintained boat will usually have a nice appearance.
2. What is the weather policy? Does the captain go in rough sea conditions? Do not be afraid to ask. Does the boat have a radar or satellite weather on board?
3. Choose a reputable business. How long in business? Look for reviews on Tripadvisor, Facebook and other sources. Are there positive reviews? Does the business have any reviews? Is the Captain or owner a member of the local or state fishing association? Look for the business name in publications including websites.
4. Select the right type of boat. Is the boat large enough to travel out into the ocean? Is there a restroom on board? Does the boat have comfortable seating? Does the boat have a/c? Most charter fishing boats along the U.S. Gulf Coast have a/c. Is there adequate room on the fishing deck for your group to fish? Is there a first mate along with the captain on board? The first mate is very essential for safety and assisting you with all of your needs including fishing. Your captain will be busy operating the boat and locating the fish.
5. What type of fish do we catch? Can we keep the fish or is it catch and release? Does the customers have a choice? Will we troll, bottomfish or both? Do we have a choice? Listen to the captain. Do not demand to fish for a species that is not biting very well. Ask the captain what has been biting?
6. Is the charterboat family friendly? If you have your family on the fishing charter then you want a captain, mate and boat that is family friendly. Are the captain and mate polite and professional? Are they patient with first time anglers? Does the mate spend time teaching your family how to fish? Will he bait the hooks for the ones who prefer not to? Will the mate take the time to take pictures of your group?
7. What if my kids get bored? You hope everyone is enjoying the fishing. However there are times while travelling to and from the fishing grounds that there may be a quiet time. Does the boat have music inside and on the back deck? This can be very enjoyable out on the water or some people enjoy peace and quiet. This should always be your choice. Some boats have a TV with chilren’s movies or Playstation on board. No one wants a member of the family or group to be bored. These are good options in case someone gets a little restless.
8. Will we see dolphins? Many times the fishing boats will see dolphins and sometimes marine birds, sea turtles and flying fish. You want a captain who will slow the boat and allow you to take pictures of sea life if you choose. Relax and enjoy your adventure. On the other hand, you may be the type of customer who wants to get to the fishing as soon as possible. Either way is okay. Let your captain know your main interests before you depart.
9. Is there good professional fishing tackle on board the boat? Does it appear to be old and sometimes not working properly? A top of the line charterboat will have a variety of nice, dependable and professional fishing tackle. Light tackle is very popular among many experienced anglers. Light tackle is also a good option for young children.
10. What types of trips does the charterboat offer? Four hour trolling nearshore troling trips? Half day and full day bottomfishing trips? Offshore big game trolling trips? Deep drop fishing trips to the deep deep water? Overnight trips for tuna, marlin and more?
11. What about the price of the fishing charter? Remember cheap is not always best. Many people do have a budget. Choose a nice boat and crew even if you have to select a shorter fishing trip. All of the items listed above are very important and it is an extra expense to the charter business to provide these items. Chances are you may not charter a fishing boat very often. Make sure your trip is a safe and enjoyable one.
As you can see there are so many things to consider as you search and select a charterboat. Not all of the items are important to everyone. You will not always find all of this information before you select your charter boat. However, you will know what you like, what you do not like and what is important to you as you chose your second fishing charter trip. Today there are many very nice charter boats available. There are also many nice, polite, professional and knowledgeable captains and mates. Spend a little extra money and have a great experience on your next fishing adventure.