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F.A.Q.

Here are some common questions about taking a fishing trip.

Trip Related Questions?

When is the best time of the year to go fishing?

Whenever you can go, is always the best time! The fish have to eat every three days, so at least every three days is a good day.
We fish year round for largemouth bass, panfish, snakehead, Clown Knife fish and peacock bass. Smallmouth bass are more limited and not available in the winter months. For largemouth most people consider the late January through June to be the big fish time of the year. Panfish, Crappie are more winter months and bluegill are May, June. Many species are good during the summer also, especially the exotic species. As for the peacock bass and snake-heads, they are great all year long except during the cold fronts which are typically January and beginning of February. Always call your favorite guide or contact the main office for the most current fishing report.

Hopefully after reading these frequently asked questions we have answer most of your questions regarding your next fishing trip.

Do I need a fishing license?

You are required to have a freshwater fishing license in all states, even if fishing from the bank. So you have three different options to choose from to get one, and all this information will also be on your itinerary that is emailed to you. The good news for most states residents, ages under 16 and over 65, are not required to have one!

While licenses can be obtained at retailers, they also can be obtained online, and the actual license does not need to be present, your receive or confirmation that you do purchase one.

Once you have arrived: – Licenses can be purchased at Bass Pro Shops, Wal-Mart, or local tackle shops.

The most convenient way to buy your fishing license is over the internet; here’s the link to Florida fishing license, Pennsylvania fishing license, Georgia fishing license, Texas fishing license, Arkansas fishing license, and California fishing license.

Every state is different, so be sure to check.

Fishing License: Non-Resident – 3 days $17.00 or 1 year $34.00
Resident – 1 year $17.00 Is it hot? Will it rain?

At the boat ramp or before: – Dial (888) FISH-FLORIDA, and they will provide you with an authorization # over the phone.
In the summer it is hot and it can rain almost any day, but mostly in the afternoon. Be prepared. Put sunscreen on first thing in the morning and bring rain gear if you have it; if not we usually do.

What is your cancellation policy?

There is a $ deposit for each day required to confirm your reservation date or dates. The deposit is based on the price of the overall trip. It’s also considered as a “No Show” fee for your Captain, his downtime, missing a day’s work, and fuel driving to the meeting location.

Our standard policy for cancellation without a fee is 48 hours from the time of your reservation date. If you are communicating with your guide (Captain) and/or the main office and become sick or have a family emergency, there will be a full refund for your cancellation. If inclement weather conditions cause the trip to be postponed or canceled, then if we can not reschedule you, we will refund the deposit.

All cancellations must be made with your guide (captain) or main office 48 hours before your scheduled trip. Voice mails and emails are NOT excepted for cancellations. When dealing with inclement weather cancellations, this can only be decided and agreed upon with your guide (captain).

If you do not communicate with your guide (captain) or our office, and the guide drives to the boat ramp, the deposit is forfeited.

Whats the best start time?

We prefer to begin most of our trips around daybreak or daybreak because this typically is the best fishing. But we can schedule your fishing trip to begin at times that fit around your family, friends, and work schedule upon your request. Please expect to be on the water for at least the length of your scheduled trip; we do not cut it short unless you request to.

We do not count time, only fish!  If we’re meeting at a specific location, have your itinerary on your phone in advance. We will recommend a start time; it generally is between 6 & 7 am. Please allow extra time to be picked up at the dock or your hotel.

Your guide (captain) will verify all this with a phone call before the meeting!

Do you do afternoon trips?

Yes, on a daily bases, the PM can be as good as the AM. Always check the online availability or the office for the latest fishing report. Most after-trips are set online from 2 pm to 6 pm, this can be adjusted after booking based on the guide’s availability and your desired times. We will do our best to accommodate your schedule when possible.

To see a complete list of type of fishing charters click here!

Can I bring my kids?

Freshwater fishing is perfect for kids. The action is consistent; the fish are plentiful. There are alligators, birds, snakes, and other exotic species that hang around the boats to keep them interested. Restroom facilities are usually close to most fishing areas. We have no problem taking restroom breaks when needed.

We enjoy working with women and/or children and instructing them on various fishing techniques, so all family members are welcome.

Where will meet for the charter?

When reserving your reservation, your guide or office staff will find the most convenient location. Once the reservation is confirmed, you will receive the address, directions, and captain’s contact information via email or text, which ever is more convenient. All itineraries have a live link clickable to the meeting location via Google maps.

If you struggle to find a meeting location the morning, click on the itinerary captain’s phone number and they will be happy to give you turn-by-turn instructions.

Where should I stay?

Check out our lodging page for package trips that include fishing and accomendations. Also if you reachout to us, via phone, chat, messenger we can provide area reccommendations. In most all areas there adequate hotels and AirBNB rentals available.

Does it get rough? "Because I get Seasick!"

No, you will never have to worry about sea sickness with us in freshwater. Remember, there are plenty of places to hide from the wind and weather. Over 20 years, we have never had someone get seasick, and generally the fishing is so good you really won’t notice those conditions. But if you do happen to feel uncomfortable, we are happy to move or return at anytime.

How many and what age children can you take on the boat?

Children of all ages are welcome, maximum of three children on each boat. If you have more then three, in many locations we have pontoon boats that can accommodate up to eight.

What are the start times?

We prefer to begin most of our trips around daybreak or at daybreak. But, we will schedule your fishing trip to begin at times that fit your schedule upon your request. Expect to be on the water for the entire time of your scheduled trip. We do not count time, only fish! Have your itinerary in advance if we’re meeting at a specific location.

We will recommend a start time; it generally is between 6 & 7 am. Please allow extra time to be picked up at the dock or your hotel.

Were a group, how do we handle company trips?

We don’t have to arrange for multiple boats/guides, we have them already waiting for you. We can arrange as many days as you’d like to fish. Remember, we are the largest provider of charter fishing trips in US, so you will get professional bass fishing guides every time. We offer big fish tournaments with a weigh-in for your group, it all can be arranged. We have accommodations, provide meals, BBQ’s you name it, we can arrange it!

You can read here more on what we offer and past clients we have serviced.

What are the rates?

All rates are posted online, know the rates are based on the length of the trip. Also the number of anglers attending for one up to four. For a complete list of our rates please click here!

Do I bring food and drinks?

We have a cooler onboard all boats and supply ice and bottled water on trips. We recommend you bring your favorite drink (soda, beer, energy drink) and a snack. Yes, what’s a fishing trip with out a cold beer, but try to bring cans instead of bottles. So, you are permitted if so desired. All boats have room for whatever you would like to bring.

Questions for the Guide?
May I bring my own gear?

Yes, you can bring your own quipment, but we do provide you with everything. Fly fishing anglers should bring there own equipment, although if arranged at the point of your reservation everything can also be provided. We provided fishing leaders, lures, and tackle. We have right-handed and left-handed reels in both spinning and bait-caster models. Also we have a cooler on-board with iced and bottled spring waters.

What will I need to bring on the boat?

It would be best if you considered bringing sunglasses; polarized glasses are preferred but unnecessary. In some locations, when sight fishing, polarized glasses can be beneficial. Sometimes, our guides will have extra pairs for you to use.
A hat or a cap is suggested if you wear hats because the sun can be intense on the water.

Deck shoes, tennis shoes, or sandals are the most comfortable, but high heels are not recommended. Sunscreen, in most cases, is also suggested; because of sensitive skin, we suggest you bring your own. Again, in most cases, the guide does have it on the boat.
Everything else is provided; there is more detail on the us what to expect page.

What waters will we be fishing?

We have many great fisheries located near all the famous locations and destinations. We even have lots of private lakes throughout each state. We also service over 350+ bodies of water, so we have something for everyone. Each location is really good during its peak time; the moon phase and weather are all things that should be considered when choosing the correct location.

Our staff has many, many, many years of data to help you choose the location and to help with your Frequently Asked Questions. But again, if you would like to discuss your options with one of our guides, we will connect you in advance.

If you’re wanting to fish in a specific location… that’s wonderful. If you are unsure, we can help you narrow down all the great choices, and we look forward to discussing them with you.

How many can go on the boat with the captain?

On most freshwater bass fishing trips, the preferred and most comfortable is 1 or 2 persons on standard charters, not counting the captain. However, most of the boats take three people per boat quite often. In many locations, we have boats that can accommodate four people plus the captain; this can be determined by looking at the trip capacity or the captain’s profile page.

You can also contact us via Facebook messenger, Whats App, or Chat or call the main office (888) 629-2277. Understand the number of anglers and the limited weight capacity set by the United States Coast Guard.

Does the guide fish?

No, unless you ask he or she to do so. Our job is to put you on the fish and give you the information you need to hook, fight and land your own trophy fish. We have done these thousands of times, we know were the fish are, there is no need for us to “locate” them on your time.

You can read more about our full-time fishing guides here and your protected by our award winning No fish, No Pay policy!

What about tipping? Is gratuity included?

Gratuity is not included in the cost of the trip nor is it required by our fishing guides. But it is greatly appreciated and common practice to tip your captain a gratuity of 10% to 20% on his/her service, ability, and hospitality. This can be added to your credit card at the end of the trip for your convenience and Frequently Asked Questions.

How do I make a deposit to confirm my trip?

Simply use our online booking system for your reservation day or night, and you will immediately be emailed a confirmation of your fishing trip. If you prefer not to use the online system, you can call the main office at (888) 629.2277, and it can be confirmed over the phone.

What is the preferred payment?

All charters and tours require a credit card to reserve your reservation.
We expect Cash, Checks and take all major credit cards. Visa, M/C, Discover and AMX at end of the experience to pay balance.

Additional resources to answer your Frequently Asked Questions.

Still need help with Frequently Asked Questions? Please send us a note!

For any other questions, please call, chat or messenger us. +1888 628-2277

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