Is it possible to go fishing for less than $500? (assisted/guided)

[ls2006vacay]

Hi,

It's me again. Thank you for answering all my many questions so far I really appreciate it.

Here's yet another one:

We were going to try a fishing charter next week but due to the cost, it looks like it's getting knocked off our trip. My husband has never been fishing and was really excited about the prospect of doing this. I went fishing once, in Destin, like 10 years ago. We need help doing this ... can't just go sit on a pier and do it. Well I mean we could, but I'm not sure how successful it would be :)

Any thoughts? Wait til another trip when we have more $?

Laura

[SlowMovin]

That's about the least for which you can charter.

Can you elaborate on what kind of assistance you need? If there are medical or handicapped issues I'm afraid you may be out of luck, if it's just an issue of needing equipment and not knowing what to do, I would recommend a party boat. The Swoop out of Destin is a pretty good one. I've heard the New Florida Girl (also out of Destin) is good also. They tend to run a little less than $100 per person, but they can sometimes be crowded.

If nothing else, go to the pier and just do what everyone else is doing (which will mostly be fishing for Spanish Mackeral using Got-cha plugs and straw rigs--I'll be happy to elaborate if you like).

[Smiling JOe]

Slow has some good advice. In addition to the cost of a private charter, you need to tip well - it is expected if they put you on the fish. I would plan on more like $800 - $1000 inclusive price for private. Party boat or try your own hand at the pier -- you may surprise yourself.

[sunshine]

My father is an avid sportsman. He used to travel to Belize and Peru annually to fish. He's been on many fishing excursions of all types, and enjoys being out in nature. All that being said, when he comes down here to visit, he books a trip on the Sweet Jody, a party boat. He has a great time, comes home with dinner (and dinner and dinner) and a huge smile. :D

[ls2006vacay]

Hi!

The party boat concept is totally new to me. Thanks for the advice! I looked up a couple of them, and it looks like it could be fun and much more affordable. We might do it. :)

thanks!!!!!!!!!!

Laura

[BeachSteelers]

Surf fishing is free and at the right time can be better than a charter. I think you might be able to get out for 1/2 day for well under $500. Also post here and you might find someone to split the charter to bring the price down.

[SlowMovin]

I may be wrong, but I think $500 probably is the half-day rate. Most full-day charters are a good bit more.

[Smiling JOe]

Rates from Gordie Hinds' website (http://www.angryfishcharters.com/) are typical for this area :

Inshore/Nearshore: 1-4 anglers: (23' class center console boats) $110/hour - 4 hour minimum
Offshore: 1-6 anglers: (32' class center console boats w/head) $135/hour - 4 hour minimum. trips
(20% gratuity is the generally accepted norm)