Do you like to go fishing, but don't have a boat? If you want to go fishing and don't own a boat then there are a couple of ways you can go. The first way is a drift boat. The second way is to go fishing on a charter boat. I prefer a charter boat you have the flexibility to going to more destinations with less people on the boat. However, there are some things you should know before you go charter fishing. So you don't use your credit card to reserve a boat then get out to fish to find they take you to the same places the drift and party boats take the tourist. Better yet you don't want to get out fishing and find out you don't have adequate bait and tackle or if the coast guard comes you have fished without the proper licenses. Some boats may require you to have your own fishing license and insurance, but this is not the norm. Here are some helpful tips to help you find the right charter boat for you, so you may enjoy a great and safe fishing trip.
Certifications, Licenses, and Insurance
It is important to ask if the captain is IGFA certified and licensed as a captain. Also you should know what kind of insurance the boat carries incase you or a guest gets hurt due o the negligence of the captain or a mate. Fishing licenses are a necessity in most places. Some charter boat will charter to any party, not just for fishing but for partying also. You need to know if the charter boat your interested in supplies fishing licenses for the anglers as part of the trip.
Price
You should know the price of the charter not only before you go fishing, but before you put down a deposit to reserve the boat. Prices can vary extremely from boat to boat for many reasons such as size and amenities. Sometimes you can get a boat that offers less than the rest of the competition but charges more, just because they can. If you shop around you can often find a really good deal, especially off season for boats who are willing to offer a deal just so the boat isn't docked. Also you should know what their price change policy is, so you don't pay a deposit just to find out the prices changed when you get there and you can't get a refund.
Refund Policy
It's important to get what you paid for. Therefore, you should check to see what the refund policy incase you have to cancel due to an emergency, whether, or if the boat has to cancel. Will the boat give a full refund, no refund, or a credit for another day.
Bait and Tackle
If fishing is what you are doing then you should make sure you know your going to be equipped to do just that for the entire trip. You should ask what kind of bait is supplied, as well as what kind of tackle and classes.
Types of Fishing Offered
You should know what types of fishing the charter boat offers. Do they offer bottom fishing if you want to anchor or drift for Snapper and Grouper. Do they offer trolling for King, Wahoo, Dolphin, and Sail fish. Does the boat offer only bottom fishing, sport fishing, or will they take you fishing for whatever you want. Also, are they experienced in finding all types of fish. Some boats are use to targeting specific species of fish and your tactics, bait, and tackle will vary according to the species you are fishing for.
Beginners
Does the boat offer lessons for children and beginner anglers?
Supplies
Before going charter fishing you should inquire what the boat will supply. You should know whether or not there will be drinks and food. You should also inquire if they have medicine for motion sickness, should you or a guest gets sea sick, as well as aspirin ect.
Age limits
You should know if there are any age limits. Some charter boats do not allow children under 16 or 18.
Captains track record
You should check with the better business bureau and see if there have been any complaints on the boat or captain. As well you should inquire how much experience the captain has and how many years he's been a captain.
Safety
Last but not least, you should know and inquire about the safety measure on the boat. Do they have proper life vests, a radio, first aide kit, flares, and a life raft if needed.