SUN PROTECTION IS NON-NEGOTIABLE
The Florida sun off Fort Lauderdale and Miami doesn't care that there's a breeze. UV reflects off the water and burns you twice. The single biggest reason charter days go sideways is sunburn that hits in hour three and ruins the back half of the trip.
Pack reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 30 minimum, applied before you leave the dock and reapplied every two hours), a wide-brim or long-bill hat, polarized sunglasses on a retainer strap, and a long-sleeve fishing sun shirt. UPF-rated shirts are worth the money. They keep you cooler than bare skin and don't need reapplication. Our offshore fishing trips spend hours out in open sun.
FOOTWEAR THAT WORKS ON A WET DECK
Closed-toe shoes with soft, non-marking soles are the rule. Boat shoes, deck sneakers, or sturdy sandals with heel straps all work. Flip-flops are out. They slide on a wet deck, they end up overboard when a fish runs, and they leave the tops of your feet exposed to the sun.
If you don't own deck shoes, a clean pair of running shoes you don't mind getting wet is fine. White soles are preferred (dark soles can mark the deck), but it's not a deal-breaker. Captain Jason's a stickler about this for safety. Read about the boat and gear in the about section.
HYDRATION AND FOOD
Bring more water than you think you need. The combination of sun, salt air, and physical effort of fighting fish dehydrates faster than people expect. A gallon per person on a half-day, two gallons for a full day, is not overkill.
Food should be light and easy. Sandwiches, fruit, jerky, granola bars, pretzels. Skip heavy or greasy meals that sit in your stomach if seas pick up.
Alcohol is allowed but go easy. Sun plus dehydration plus alcohol is how good trips become regrettable ones. Our charter information details what's provided and what to bring.
FISHING GEAR YOU DON'T NEED TO BRING
You don't need rods, reels, tackle, bait, or a fishing license. All of that is provided and matched to the trip we're running. The only fishing-related items worth bringing are personal: a favorite pair of fishing gloves if you have them, a buff for sun and wind protection, and a small dry bag for your phone and wallet.
If you have a specific lure or rod you want to use, mention it when you book and we'll let you know if it fits the trip. Otherwise, leave the gear at home. Full equipment details are on the bottom fishing charter overview.
CASH, ID, AND THE SMALL STUFF
Bring a valid photo ID for every adult (Coast Guard regulation). Cash is preferred for the captain's tip at the end of the trip. Standard tip is 15-20% of the trip price for good service. Most ATMs are close to the marina if you forget.
A waterproof phone case, a small towel, motion sickness meds taken an hour before departure (Bonine or Dramamine non-drowsy), and a light rain jacket if the forecast is iffy round out the kit. Photos of past trips are on the fishing photo gallery.
OPTIONAL BUT WORTH BRINGING
A GoPro or chest-mounted camera if you want hands-free video of the fight. A small soft cooler for any catch you want to take home (the dock cleans and bags the fish, but a cooler keeps it cold on the drive). A change of dry clothes for the ride home if you're going straight to dinner.
The trip runs better when you've packed once, set it by the door the night before, and rolled into the marina without scrambling. Booking and contact info is on the contact and booking form.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do I need to bring my own fishing license?
No. Fishing licenses are covered for everyone on board, including saltwater stamps. The charter operates under a permitted vessel license that covers all paying guests. Our offshore fishing trips include everything fishing-related except food and drinks.
Should I take seasickness medication?
If you've ever been seasick, yes. Take it an hour before departure, not at the dock. Bonine and non-drowsy Dramamine are both effective. Ginger candy and acupressure wristbands work for mild cases. The Cool Runnings 32 Contender rides smooth, but conditions vary. Boat specs are listed on the about Cool Runnings section.
Can I bring beer or alcohol on the charter?
Yes. Beer, wine, and cocktails are allowed. Captain Jason just asks that you drink responsibly and stay hydrated with water in between. Hard liquor is fine but the sun and waves amplify everything. Full charter policies are on the charter information overview.
What if it rains?
Light rain doesn't stop the trip. Florida summer rain is usually short and warm. If a thunderstorm or small craft advisory is in the forecast, the captain will reschedule with no penalty. Safety first. Message Captain Jason to reschedule your Fort Lauderdale charter at no penalty.
