How much to charter a fishing boat? Extra fees related to fishing charter booking

How much to charter a fishing boat? Are you thinking about taking a fishing trip but aren’t sure of the costs associated with chartering a boat? Many people can be intimidated by the idea of getting out on open water, but there are several things to consider when it comes to cost.

In this blog post, Scott Ewart will explore all of your options so you can get an accurate estimate of how much it might cost to charter a fishing boat. Besides, we also let you know about extra fees related to fishing charter booking. At the end of this post, you can make the most informed decision possible and have an enjoyable experience.

How much to charter a fishing boat?

This depends on the type of boat you are looking to charter and how long you plan on using it. So, how much does a charter fishing boat cost? The cost of a fishing boat charter typically ranges from $527 for a full day to $415 for a half day.

Prices may also vary depending on how far off shore the fishing trip is and how many people will be coming along. Besides, any additional amenities, the location of the charter, and the amount of fuel are needed.

For example, in deep-sea fishing, the charter fee can be $1,000–3,500 a day. For a bay fishing trip, the charter fee may range from $500 to $800 for half-day or full-day trips. Besides, the prices of various styles of fishing boat is also different. Here is the more detailed cost for the charter fishing boat.

Charter fishing boat prices in salt water

Charter fishing for the inshore area

Inshore fishing charters cost $657 on average, although a half-day costs $350 and a full day costs $800.

Target customers: Beginner and experienced anglers love inshore charters. Inshore fishing occurs in bays, estuaries, and coastal waters under 25 feet.

Target kinds of fish: inshore charters target tarpon, redfish, and trout.

Charter fishing for the offshore area

Offshore trolling

In regions with easy access to deeper water, a charter to go troll offshore can cost as little as $600. Nevertheless, on-land fishing locations can become quite costly; outsized vessels, robust gear, and longer stay times typically start at a price of $1,000 and rise from there. Multi-day offshore expeditions cost even more.

Offshore deep dropping

The cost for deep-dropping offshore is also highly dependent on how far off the coast the excursion will take you. For example, if your destination requires a long voyage out of sight of land, then it can easily cost $2,294 or more. Nonetheless, shorter trips to nearby spots require less effort and cost somewhere around $990.

Due to the fact that the fishing grounds might be as close as 5 miles offshore or as far as 100 miles offshore, the cost of deep sea fishing is quite variable. During the off shore deep-dropping expeditions, there are normally four to six people available aboard the boat. The use of electrical reels is often required for deep drooping, which takes place in seas at a depth of more than 800 feet.

Target fish: silkiest, queen snapper, tilefish, and yellow eye.

Offshore bottom fishing

For longer trips, the minimum journey duration has been extended to six hours. With heavy gear and larger boats in tow, these voyages usually take between 6 and 12 hours and come at a cost of around $800 to $1,500. The demands for a larger boat and longer journey durations increase expense.

Target fish: Bottom fishing offshore for snapper, grouper, and amberjack.

Nearshore bottom fishing

You may have to pay more if you fish in deeper water or aim for larger game fish. Obviously, trips that require longer travel distances will cost more because fuel is expensive. Initial prices start a little higher at around $600, with trip times shorter than offshore fishing but longer than inshore fishing.

When budgeting for a fishing trip, keep in mind that the cost of shore excursions can range from $1,000 or more, depending on the type of fish you want to target.

Flat fishing charter

This form of fishing emphasizes catching a large variety of fish. It is usually done off the beach or in shallow waters with the use of trolling motors to move around the area. Generally, it can cost anywhere from $375 to $600 per day. Sight fishing is one of the most common types of flat fishing charters.

Target fish: bonefish, redfish, tarpon, and flounder.

Deep sea fishing charter

 

 

This form of fishing is for those who want to go further away from land in search of slightly bigger fish. Generally, it will cost between $650 and $1,000 per day, depending on how far you are willing to venture and how long the journey will take.

Factors affecting to a deep sea fishing charter

Deep-sea fishing is influenced by three factors: the boat’s quality, the captain, and the deckhand.

The boat’s quality

A charter boat that cleans itself is more likely to maintain its mechanical parts. Air conditioning is worth $20 per hour at deep-sea fishing prices. An unattractive charter yacht is more likely to have engine room problems.

A charter boat that costs more per hour is more likely to spend time and money on maintenance and upkeep. Charter boats that clean the inside and outside also do regular maintenance on their engines and other parts. They improve deep-sea fishing charters.

The boat’s captain

The boat’s captain will have a big effect on how your deep-sea fishing trip goes and how much it costs. A captain with a well-known and respected name may charge more per hour than their peers.

The boat’s deckhand

The deckhand has a significant impact on your deep-sea fishing adventure. He is there to teach you the fundamental abilities and methods of saltwater fishing. As the deckhand is paid by tips, you should observe a high level of customer service in his work. You should consider whether he tries to keep passengers happy and interested during the journey or not.

Shark fishing charter boats

Shark fishing charters average $507. A 4-6-hour charter costs $395–$600. The usual shark charter catches 3–4 sharks. Night shark fishing excursions are more popular and successful than day outings.

Target customers: Shark fishing is a high-energy fishing trip that is haunting, exhilarating. Therefore, this is a wonderful choice for fishing enthusiasts and even the average fisherman.

Shark fishing charter boats generally accommodate 2-4 fishermen, depending on boat size.

If you’re looking to go fishing, remember that it’s best to bring your own gear, as oftentimes not enough is supplied. A typical party boat can fit up to 150 people and usually has bait on board, but you should still bring extra supplies just in case. After all, the more prepared you are for a successful day of angling, the better!

Multi-day fishing charter

It usually costs $399 per person, but prices can range from $315 to $475 per person.

Target customers: Anglers with years of experience on the water often book multi-day charters. On board each multi-day charter, a maximum of 50 fishermen can be comfortably accommodated.

Time: Generally, the journey spans an estimated 39 to 48 hours altogether.

Important note: There will be no turning back until the entire cruise is complete. Even if you or a member of your party gets seasick, the trip will still continue because this is not a private charter service. Although you can rent fishing gear directly from the rental boat, it is recommended that you bring your own gear.

You should bring a sleeping bag, a pillow, a change of clothes, and, of course, food and drink, as this is an overnight rental.

Charter fishing boat prices in freshwater

Charter fishing for bass

These boats typically cost between $243 and $499 per day in fresh water. This price includes all the necessary fishing gear, such as rods and reels, lures, bait, tackle boxes, and ice chests. The bass fishing can be done in practically every state. Therefore, it is consistently ranked as one of the most popular guided fishing trips in the United States.

Fishermen use many different types of fishing gear and catch a wide variety of species. Usually, fishermen use certain types of fishing gear to target specific species.

Source: https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/

Fishing charter boat in river and stream

Fishing charters for river and stream fishing can cost between $314 and $499 per day.

Anglers from all over the world go to places with fresh water so they can use fly fishing, which is most often done in streams and rivers. When there are more people fishing on a trip, the price per person often goes down.

Target fish: Rivers and streams are filled with numerous types of fish, yet trout and salmon remain the most sought-after specimens.

Fishing charter boat for striper fishing

A charter flight lasting 8 hours will typically cost between $427 and $655, with an average price tag of around $532.

In addition to bass fishing, many guides also let people fish for stripers in fresh water.

Target customers: This is suitable for family. Certainly, it will bring an unforgettable freshwater fishing excursion with a striped bass charter cruise. It’s the perfect way to make lasting memories that everyone will treasure!

Extra fees related to fishing charter booking

These fees should also be taken into consideration.

Drinks and Food: Most charter companies will include drinks and snacks in the price of the trip, but some do not. If this is the case, make sure to inquire about how much it might cost to bring your own food and beverages aboard. Pack sufficient snacks and drinks for the boat journey. To be sure you never run out, bring along 20% more food and beverages than anticipated.

Tips: The standard range for the amount of a tip given on the overall cost of a charter is between 10 and 20 percent. Therefore, you should make sure to come prepared with an extra budget.

Fuel Surcharge: Most charter companies charge a fuel surcharge, often based on how far you are going and how much fuel the boat will need.

Cooler: If you want to keep your fish fresh, you can bring along an ice-filled cooler. Many charter companies provide coolers for their passengers, but it’s best to double check before you depart.

Tackle: The cost of tackle is usually included in the price of the charter. But if you want to use your own gear, as plenty of customers do, make sure to inquire with the charter company if they are okay with that.

National park pass: If you are fishing in national parks, a mandatory park pass must be purchased to enter. The price of a park pass might vary anywhere from $20 to $35.

If you want to own a boat instead of chartering them, you can read steps to how to buy a fishing boat. Before going fishing, you can consult before how to prevent seasickness on a fishing boat. By this way, you will have a fishing experience on the water!

FAQs How much to charter a fishing boat?

Are fishing charters worthwhile?

You will have access to equipment on the boat. It takes much less effort than owning a fishing boat. You can learn about the area, how to navigate the waters, and the best techniques to fish there safely and efficiently.

Are the fish kept on a charter boat?

Yes, most charter boats allow you to keep the fish if you are within the legal limits for size and species. However, it is important to check with the captain before your trip to ensure that this is allowed. Also, some charters have a “catch and release” policy for certain types of fish, which means you have to put them back in the water without hurting them.

Is alcohol permitted on fishing charters?

Beer and alcohol are prohibited on charter boats. Bring only water cans and plastic bottles. In particular, you will become dehydrated during the summer and early fall if you do not drink enough water.

Will I get refunded if we don’t catch any fish?

You won’t get your money back if you don’t catch any fish, unless the captain or the company’s marketing materials say otherwise.

Conclusion

How much to charter a fishing boat? After reading through this blog post, we hope that you have a better idea of “how much is it to charter a fishing boat” for yourself. To ensure that you get the best charter possible for your budget, always do your research ahead of time, and don’t be afraid to shop around for the best deal. With preparation and patience, you can have an amazing charter experience from start to finish. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact justaddwaterbda.com! Our team is willing to answer you as soon as possible!