Frequently Asked Questions
Before You Book
Do you offer split charters?
No, every trip is private. The price is the same no matter how many people you bring, so the boat is yours and your group's alone. Coordinating a split trip between separate groups, each with their own preferences, can be very challenging. We have found that keeping it private simply makes for a better day on the water.
Do I need experience?
Not at all. Most of our guests are not seasoned anglers, and the crew handles the hard part, so all you have to do is show up ready for a good day. We will walk you through everything once you are aboard.
Are kids and beginners welcome?
Absolutely. We take families and first-timers out all the time, and our crew is patient with anyone who is still learning. Kids and older guests are always welcome, and we will make sure everyone has a great time.
How many people can we bring?
For deep sea trips, we can take up to 6 guests aboard. That is a Coast Guard limit for private charters, not a question of boat size, so we are unable to make exceptions. Inshore trips allow up to 3, and we can sometimes stretch to 4 if you give us a call first. If you have a bigger crew, we can set you up with a multiple-boat outing so nobody gets left on the dock.
How long is a trip?
Deep sea trips run a half, three-quarter, or full day, and night trips run about four hours. We are happy to help you pick the length that fits your schedule and what you want to catch, so just ask when you book.
Should we be worried about seasickness?
Seasickness is the one thing we cannot fully control, since the weather is out of our hands and everyone handles a rolling sea differently. Some people feel it in a light chop while others are fine in a six-foot swell. If you are unsure of your tolerance, the best move is to come prepared, and there is nothing to be embarrassed about. Over-the-counter medication like Dramamine works well, but it has to be taken the night before and the morning of the trip, because once you feel sick it is too late for a pill. The seasick patch is another good option, though it needs a prescription, so talk to your doctor ahead of time. If open water concerns you, our calmer inshore trips are always a good alternative.
Are fish guaranteed?
Nothing in fishing is guaranteed, but we stack the odds in your favor. We have an experienced crew and we fish nearly every day, so we almost always know where the fish are and aren't. We run close to 300 charters a year and usually get skunked only once or twice. That is less than a one percent chance of a day with nothing in the box, and it usually happens when a trip gets cut short. It is called fishing, not catching, but we do everything in our power to keep you catching.
How do we book a trip?
You can book online in just a few minutes. Choose your date and place a deposit to lock it in, and we will send a confirmation email with all the details. Head to our booking page to get started.
What is the deposit policy?
A deposit holds your date. Deposits are nonrefundable within 30 days of your trip, with one exception: the weather. If conditions are unsafe, we will work with you to reschedule around your availability, and if we cannot find a new date, you get your deposit back. Weather calls are always the captain's to make, but we do our best to stay flexible. You can reschedule once, up to 72 hours out, pending availability, so just reach out if your plans change.
Will we sign a waiver?
Yes, every guest signs a quick electronic liability waiver before we leave the dock. We will send the link with your confirmation email, and it helps to forward it to your group so everyone can sign ahead of time. That way nothing holds up your morning at the marina.
After You Book
Where do we meet?
For deep sea trips, we leave from Dinner Key Marina at 3400 Pan American Drive, Miami, FL 33133. Plan to arrive 15 minutes early and park in lot 62, which is pay-by-phone. For inshore trips, we usually leave from the Seminole Boat Ramp in Coconut Grove, occasionally pivoting to Key Biscayne for weather. Your exact meeting spot and time come with your booking email.
How do we pay?
Payment is due at the end of the day, once the trip is finished. We accept all major credit cards, cash, and Zelle, and we never keep a card on file. A gratuity of 15–20% for the crew is always appreciated if you enjoyed your trip.
What do we bring?
Pack light. Bring food, drinks, sunscreen, and sunglasses, and we will handle the rest. Rods, reels, tackle, bait, licensing, and safety gear are all included. We keep a cooler of ice for your drinks and a refrigerator for food on board, so everything stays cold all day.
Is alcohol allowed on board?
Yes, alcohol is welcome aboard in moderation. We just ask that you keep it reasonable so everyone has a safe and easy day on the water.
What happens with the fish?
Every fish you catch is yours to keep. Some charters keep half the catch to sell, which is illegal in Florida, so we never do it. We will fillet and bag your fish right at the dock, ready to take home, and if you would rather eat it fresh, we will point you to a nearby restaurant that will cook your catch the same day. If you are flying home with a big haul, the most cost-effective way is a soft-sided cooler checked with dry ice, so check your airline's rules on baggage fees and dry ice limits. We do not recommend shipping fish, since the cost climbs quickly with every pound.