How Do I Choose a Fishing Charter?

You could spend the next ten-years learning how to catch fish like an expert, or you could use these 10 tips to help you choose the best charter and start catching fish like the professionals. Do you want to feel the bend in your rod instantly? Are you willing to work hard to become a successful fisherman? Make sure that you charter the right boat to do the job. Here’s how.

1. The cheapest is not always the best. Many people can operate as fishing guides, even though they don’t have the required licenses or bonds. Ask the captain for license numbers and inquire about their credentials if a charter seems low-cost. You will also find guide’s associations in many areas.
2. The captain is the most important thing, not the boat. You can have a great time on a smaller, slower or older boat. You won’t have any fun if your captain is a bummer.
3. Ask about tackle and techniques before you make your booking. There are many boats that troll and others that cast light tackle. Some boats do both. If you are looking to learn something new, choose the one that employs your favorite tactic.
4. Ask them if they allow catch and keep or catch and release. Some boats catch all the fish and sell them. Others consider the fish their property and others are only allowed to release the fish. Asking questions will help you avoid disappointment.
5. Avoid boats that are only available on prime days or with very short notice. There’s likely a reason a charter wasn’t booked for a Saturday in the summer.
6. Half-day charters are great for beginners who want to learn more about fishing. You can always return for more if you find fishing enjoyable. If you don’t like it, there may be something wrong.

The article was written by a professional charter captain at Salty Knots Fishing Charters with 15+ years of experience in the Gulf of Mexico. Salty Knots Fishing Charters is a local fishing charter service based out of St. Pete Beach, Florida. “We know what it takes to catch a giant trophy fish!” Salty Knots Is the best when it comes to Fishing Charters St Petersburg FL.