Sarasota Fishing Charter & Boat Tour FAQs

Booking & Payment

How do I book?

Book online in a couple of minutes at our Book Online page. A $100 reservation fee holds your date.

When is the rest due?

The balance is due on the day of your trip. Cash is preferred. Credit and debit cards add 3%. Tips are appreciated!

How far ahead can I book?

You can book online up to 90 days out. Looking for a date in the next 3 days? Text us at 941-928-0434 and we'll see what we can do.

How much does a trip cost?

It depends on the trip, the length and the day of the week. See all prices on our Trips & Rates page. The price is for the whole boat, not per person.

Do you sell gift cards?

Yes! A trip makes a great gift. Grab one on our Gift Cards page.

Weather & Cancellations

What if the weather is bad?

Your safety comes first. Capt. Casey watches the weather closely and will reach out the day before or the morning of your trip. If the captain cancels for weather or storms, your deposit is refunded.

What's your cancellation policy?

Cancel 7 or more days before your trip and it's free. With less than 7 days' notice, the deposit is non-refundable.

Will a little wind or rain cancel my trip?

Not always. We fish calm inshore waters, so we can often still have a great day. If it's going to be extra windy or bumpy, we'll give you a heads-up so you can decide.

Your Group

How many people can come?

Up to 6 guests. There's no extra charge for guests #5 and #6. Bigger group? Text us and we can try to plan a two boat trip.

Are kids welcome?

Absolutely, that's our specialty! All ages are welcome, and kids catching their first fish is one of our favorite things.

Do I need fishing experience?

Nope. Capt. Casey is patient and will show you everything you need to know to reel in some nice fish. The captain will even bait your hook for you if needed. First-timers and pros both have a blast.

Will I get seasick?

We stay in calm inshore waters like Sarasota Bay, so seasickness is rare. If you're prone to it, take your usual remedy before the trip. We can hide from the choppy water on windy days and still catch fish.

What to Bring

What's included?

All fishing gear, bait, ice and bottled water. Plus plush seats and a shade canopy to keep you comfortable.

What should I bring?

Snacks, hats, sunglasses, sunscreen and sometimes towels. Please put on spray sunscreen before you step on the boat. 

Can I bring drinks / alcoholic beverages?

Yes! You can pack your own cooler with drinks of your choosing, or put them in the boat cooler.

Should I bring food?

Yes! Snacks and food are good idea. Being on the water always gets you hungry.

Do I need a fishing license?

No. Our charter license covers everyone fishing on the boat during your trip.

Is there a bathroom on the boat?

Not on the boat, but there's one at the marina, so please use it before we head out. There's also a ladder on the back of the boat if need to dip in.

On the Water

What will we catch?

Depends on the season! Common catches include redfish, snook, trout, mangrove snapper, sheepshead, black drum and even sharks. Check our Fishing Report to see what's biting.

Can we keep our fish?

Yes, but ONLY for the "Fishing Charters" if they're in season and legal size. Capt. Casey will clean and fillet your keepers at the dock after the trip. Not for the "Combo Trip." That is catch and release only.

Will we see dolphins?

We see dolphins on most trips! They're a little harder to spot on windy days, and since they're wild we can't promise. Our Boat Tours and Combo Trip give you the best chance.

Do you go to Midnight Pass?

Yes, on the Combo Trip and Boat Tours when the weather allows. It's a boat-only spot that's great for shark teeth and shells.

Will we get pictures?

Yes! Capt. Casey takes photos during the trip and sends them to you afterward.

Getting Here

Where do we meet?

1780 Phillippi Shores Dr, Sarasota FL 34231. Open in Google Maps

Any tips for finding it?

Turn onto Phillippi Shores Dr (by PDQ Chicken), not Monte Carlo (it's gated). Follow Phillippi until you can't go any further and park along the big tan metal building (the marina).

When should we arrive?

Just a few minutes before your trip time. That gives you time to use the restroom and put on sunscreen before we head out. 

Still Have a Question?

Text Capt. Casey at 941-928-0434. Ready to go? Book your trip.