What is a Fishing Charter?

A fishing charter is a guided fishing trip run by a professional charter Captain. The charter typically provides everything you need for a successful day of fishing, including the boat, captain, bait, and equipment. Many people enjoy going on fishing charters because it takes the guesswork out of planning a fishing trip. All you need to do is show up ready for a great day of fishing - the captain and crew will take care of the rest.

Why Hire a Fishing Charter?

Catch More Fish, Bigger Fish, and a Bigger Variety of Fish!

Fishing with a professional guide who is passionately familiar with the local waters means you'll have a chance to catch more fish than you would on your own. These Captains fish every day, and know what is biting and where. Additionally, anglers without access to a boat will never have the opportunity to catch some of the species that a fishing charter can target, making it an exciting option. Many fishing charters will even clean and bag your fish for a small fee, so your group heads home ready for a fresh-as-can-be fish dinner.

Equipment is Provided

Equipment is another big factor. Anglers who typically fish inshore will not find it cost effective to buy and maintain offshore fishing gear. This is where a fishing charter comes in. The Captain and crew will provide all of the equipment and bait needed for an unforgettable day on the water. Fishing charters are a big time saver as well, as you simply need to show up, fish, and go home. The Captain will take care of maintaining the fishing gear, as well as cleaning and storing the boat.

Gain Knowledge

Your charter Captain has a deep understanding of tackle, fish behavior, weather, tides, technique, and countless other aspects of fishing. They are always willing to share information, and anglers looking to up their game will usually leave a fishing charter with some new tips and tricks that they can apply when fishing independently. Some guides will even offer to run the trip on the customer's boat to help them become more familiar with the area, and fishing efficiently from their own vessel.

Types of Fishing Charters

Inshore Fishing Charters

Inshore fishing charters will target species living in the bays, flats, and backwater areas. These are great, as they have something offer for everyone from beginners to hardcore anglers. Trying to get your child hooked on fishing? The Captain can take you to a spot where you can pull up small Mangrove Snapper one after another. Are you a diehard angler looking to catch your first Tarpon? The inshore trip will have you covered. These trips have less travel time as well, meaning more time spent fishing. Finally, those prone to seasickness will appreciate the calm waters of the bay or mangrove-shielded backwater lagoons. These trips are typically four hours, but you can opt for a longer inshore trip if you have a specific species you are after, or just want to spend more time on the water!

Nearshore Fishing Charters

As the name implies, nearshore fishing charters run a few miles off the beaches to fish reefs, wrecks, or other structure. These charters offer a good balance between the variety of species that can be targeted, and the relatively low travel time compared to a full offshore trip. Nearshore charters will typically bottom fish for Grouper and Snapper, or troll for species like Spanish Mackerel and Kingfish. Opt for a 6 hour trip to ensure you have ample time to experience everything the nearshore waters have to offer.

Offshore Fishing Charters

Offshore charters take anglers far off the coast, up to 80 miles or more depending on where the trip departs from, and what the group is looking to catch. These trips will have you trolling in deep blue water for some of the most sought after sport fish in the world such as Sailfish, Marlin, Wahoo, Tuna, and Mahi.

"Deep dropping" is another technique employed by offshore fishing charters. This refers to bottom fishing great depths of water, up to 1,000 feet or more. This targets a variety of Grouper and Snapper, Tilefish, Swordfish, and more. With less fishing pressure, these deep dropping trips can be exceptionally productive, sending the anglers home with plenty of delicious, fresh filets. As travel time can be extensive, we recommend a minimum of an 8 or even 10 hour trip.

Freshwater Fishing Charters

"Freshwater fishing charters" is a broad category that refers to any charter that takes place in freshwater, whether it's a lake, stream, or river. Recommended duration for these charters will vary, as the size of the body of water and the target species will play a role. You could get nonstop action on a 3 hour Bass fishing trip in Florida, while fishing for Lake Trout in Lake Tahoe would warrant a longer trip. Fishing techniques range from throwing artificials, using live bait, bottom fishing, fly fishing, or trolling.

How to Find a Fishing Charter

FishAnywhere.com takes the headache out of finding the perfect guide. Simply search for your desired fishing destination and see the top rated charters all in one place. Compare photos, prices, launch location, and reviews. When you're ready to book, simply pay a desposit online to reserve your date, and pay the remaining balance directly to the Captain.

Whether you choose to fish inshore, offshore, or in freshwater, a fishing charter is the perfect way to make the most out of your experience. If you're looking for an exciting and hassle-free way to enjoy an unforgettable day on the water, find your next fishing charter today on FishAnywhere.com!