Bring plenty of food and drinks, (Easy to eat sandwiches, cheese sticks, crackers, chips, pretzels and fruit are common). . Lunches can be arranged with advance notice. The captain reserves the right to limit consumption of alcohol (3-4 beers each) in order to maintain a safe environment and safety of our clients.
Sunglasses, hats, towels, sunscreen, and a camera to capture those great fishing moments, Soft-soled or boat shoes (This is for your safety as much as to protect the boat).
Coolers to take you fish home, we will provide the ice.
What Not to Bring
NO GPS illegal drugs, hard liquor, glass containers, firearms or weapons.
General Questions
What kind of boats do you have?
All three of our vessels are custom built boats for specially for charter fishing, safety and comfort.
Where are the boats located?
The boats are located at the Clearwater Municipal Marina, 25 Causeway Blvd, Clearwater Beach, FL 33767. Boat slips 30,33,34.
Where do I park?
There is a parking lot right behind the boats, park anywhere there is a parking meter. The There is a parking lot right behind the boats, park anywhere there is a parking meter. The City of Clearwater sells parking permits available at the boats; $1 per hour. Meters enforced from 8am to 6 pm.
How many people are on the crew?
Two of our vessels carry a captain and a deckhand, our six passenger charter vessel has only the captain who is always with the customer.
Is there a restroom?
Yes, all of our vessels have a clean head (bathroom).
What is the type of boat?
All are custom built sport fishersmen. (All 3 vessels have a full description under “Fleet”.)All are custom built sport fishersmen. (All 3 vessels have a full description under “Fleet”.)
How many people are on the crew, and will someone help me with the tackle and fish?
There is a captain and deckhand and both will help show you how to use the tackle, they will bait your hook and handle the fish for you.
What restrictions are there such as catch & release, limited catch amount?
The captain can answer or have Brad fill this in
What is your bad weather policy?
Florida weather is usually bright and sunny sometimes hot and sometimes cold or windy. So be prepared. Our charter skippers will not go out if the Coast Guard advises that the seas are unsafe or if they themselves think it unwise. If the trip is cancelled, your fee will be refunded. Charters will be cancelled at the Captains’ discretion. Reservations and ½ deposit are required.
What equipment is provided?
We provide all tackle, bait, ice and coolers on the boat.
What is the deposit amount?
The deposit is shown on the price sheet when you book.
Is there a restaurant near the boats that will cook my catch?
Yes, there is Heilmans Beachcomer, Crabbys, Clearwater Marina, Frenchy’s will cook your catch)
Can you provide charters for large groups?
Yes, we can arrange a fishing charter for more than 50 people.
Can you accommodate more than 6 passengers?
Yes, arrange ahead of time when you schedule your charter, there is a base price then an additional fee for each passenger you add on.
How many people will the boat hold?
The Gulfstream is certified to carry up to 12 passengers and 2 crew, the Gulfstream II up to 16 fishing and 2 crew (22 cruises) and the Gulfstream III 10 passengers and 2 crew.
What types of fishing do you do?
We do trolling and reef fishing also called bottom fishing.:
I don’t know how to fish or use the tackle? We have all the fishing tackle, the crew will assist you and show you how to use it. They will bait the hooks, handle the fish and put it on ice.
I am afraid I will get sea sick?
Not to worry the vast majority of our clients have no issues . If you are not sure of your seaworthiness, you have never been on the ocean before or you have a history of motion sickness ask your doctor or druggist about medications.. We suggest either Bonine or Dramime 2 (non-drowsy over the counter). The night before eat and drink sensibly, be sure to get plenty of sleep, then take one tablet before bed, take one tablet in the morning before your planned charter. Do not come hung over from a late night of drinking. A good way to avoid a queasy feeling is to stay up on the deck, keep a breeze in your face, your eyes on the horizon, not on the water or your friend next to you. Fresh air is exhilarating so keep out of the cabin and take in the ocean breezes. Drink plenty of fluids as if you were preparing for a sporting event. This will keep you from getting dehydrated.
Is smoking allowed on the boat?
You may smoke only on the back deck if you must smoke and closely watch your cigarette so not to burn anything. no smoking in cabin or on flybridge. Many people today do not approve of smoking near them so always be considerate of your fellow seaman/woman. We prefer no cigars please.
Do you allow alcoholic beverages?
Yes, you may bring beer or wine in moderation, we do NOT allow hard liquor or illicit drugs of any kind. We feel beer in moderation means 3 or 4 beers per person. We want everyone to have a good time and do not allow excessive drinking onboard. No glass!
What do I do with the fish I catch?
If you want to keep some fish first the fish must be within legal limits. You may have the crew fillet what you would like to keep; keep in mind fish is best when eaten fresh however frozen fish should be used within 3-6 months depending on the type of fish. If you do not want your fish you may leave them with the crew. Fish caught under a bag limit may NOT be sold.
What time should I arrive for my excursion?
Your time starts from the time you scheduled your trip so please be timely since the crew may have another trip following yours. Arrive approximately 15-30 minutes prior to your trip also it gives you enough time to get your gear on board and for the crew to ice down your food and drinks.
What happens if it rains?
We still go out if it rains in moderate weather conditions. The fish don’t mind if they get wet either!! 🙂
What type of fish do we catch?
It depends on the season typically we have fish for: Grouper, Snapper, Tuna, Amberjack, Barracuda, Cobia, King and Spanish mackerel, Shark and many more. On extended offshore trips we have caught Blue Marlin, White Marlin, sailfish, Wahoo, Mahi Mahi and many others. We do believe in Catch and Release. (See updated fish chart.)
Can I bring my own tackle?
Yes you may, however you must bring your own terminal tackle such as extra line, leaders, sinkers and hooks.
Are there life jackets onboard?
Yes, we are US Coast Guard certified so we carry a life jackets for everyone, adults and children’s.
Can I sell my fish?
No, it is illegal to sell fish caught under a bag limit. You can leave them with the crew.
How much fishing time will I get?
It can vary depending on length of trip, time of year and the fish we target.
Travel time can be any where between 20 minutes and 1-1/2 hour. Extended trips (10-12 hour trips) can be anywhere from 2 to four hours.
How far do you go out?
First and foremost, we go where the captain feels the best chances are of catching fish.
It can be anywhere from the beach on out, all depending on length of trip booked, weather and sea conditions. So keep in mind that if you are considering extending a trip, we won’t necessarily run an extra 10 miles for any time added.
4 hours from 1 -12 miles max.
6 hours (10-15 miles avg) up to 20 miles max.
8 hours ( 15-25 miles avg) up to 30 miles max.
10 hours ( 25-35 miles avg) up to 40 miles max.
12 hours ( 35-45 miles avg) up to 50 miles max.
Should I tip the crew?
Yes, if you enjoyed your trip it is customary to tip the crew. (15-20%) Our crew is professional and they attend to your needs, tip the crew based on how helpful you feel they were, not based on how many fish you catch. The crew depends on your generosity for their livelihood; compare them to a seagoing waiter.