What to Know Before Choosing a Pensacola Charter Fishing Boat
While there are many first-class fishing charters in the Gulf Coast area , the occasional inexperienced or dishonest charter service can destroy a fishing trip. Follow this guide to find out the best steps in finding a charter fishing boat in Pensacola!
Decide which type of fishing you’d like to experience
Consider what type of fish you’d like to target. Many charter captains differentiate in specific types of fishing or focus on particular areas of the Florida waters. Be sure to clarify the types of fishing you’d like to experience from your Pensacola fishing charter.
Determine your budget
When hiring a fishing charter, you pay for the use of the boat and the services and experience of the captain and crew for your entire fishing party. Boat capacity can range from 2-4 anglers , while large boats can hold six or more . In general, prices can begin in the $200-$400 range for a 4 hour fishing trip on smaller flats fishing boats. Larger boats used for Pensacola deep sea fishing on the Gulf of Mexico can range from $1500-$2500 for an 8 hour day.
commence your search for a good Pensacola charter fishing yacht
If you live in the area, you can ask associates for recommendations . If you’re visiting Florida, you can check with local bait and tackle shops, marinas, or even hang out at the docks to watch charters in action. If you’re still planning your trip to Florida, the internet is your best resource for finding a reputable and experienced Pensacola fishing charter.
Interview charter captains
A vital step in finding a Pensacola fishing charter is knowing specific details before you commit your time and money to hiring a charter service. This provides you the opportunity to find captains who are truly passionate about what they do, compared to the ones who are evidently not committed to their paying clients. Here is a list of things to ask your probable Pensacola fishing charter captain:
- Ask for a detailed and complete breakdown of costs, including gratuities.
- What is the deposit amount required to hold your spot?
- Is the captain licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard? It is imperative to verify proper licensing and credentials. Don’t be afraid to ask to have this information faxed or emailed to you.
- Ask for references and follow up with them. You may also wish to inquire with the Better Business Bureau
- Ask for an overview of your itinerary. When will you depart, how long will be spent actually fishing, what time will you come back ?
- Will the captain give short fishing lessons to novice anglers?
- What type of boat will you be fishing from ?
- Will the crew clean, filet, and package your fish, and is this service included in your rate?
- What is the cancellation policy due to inclement weather?
- Will the crew and captain also be fishing? This may be a problem if they are not focusing their care on you and your guests, in particular if you are an inexperienced angler.
- Is it a private charter or social charter? Social charters can mean that other people may be sharing the boat. Private Pensacola fishing charters are of course more expensive , but this means that you have the boat to yourself and the undivided attention of the captain and crew.
- Will you be able to keep trophy fish? Some captains prefer to photograph and release non-edible fish no matter what size. If you plan on keeping a trophy, inquire about the captain’s stance on this topic. Some Pensacola charter captains offer taxidermist service referrals as well.
What to bring
- Sunglasses
- Coolers large enough to take home your catch!
- Sun Block
- Drinks and food (some Pensacola fishing charters will provide whatever beverages and food you request for your trip. Just ask!)
- Light-soled footgear
- Seasickness medication
Now, all you need to do is prepare yourself for an unforgettable memory on you Pensacola Charter Fishing trip!
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