Frequently Asked Questions

What is included?

USCG Licensed Captain with over 25 years of fishing experience in Pasco County and in the Tampa Bay area
Fishing licenses for all anglers
Fishing rods, reels, bait, and tackle
Shade is available upon request
Cleaning and filleting your fish
A cooler with ice for you to use for your drinks and snacks
Complementary Bottled Water
Sunscreen
Private charter – Customizable

What to bring?

Drinks and Snacks (no glass containers)
Sunscreen (non-aerosol)
Hat
Sunglasses
Camera
Appropriate clothing: Dress according to the weather on the day of your trip. Lightweight, light-colored long-sleeve shirts are suggested to help protect from the sun.
NO BANANAS = BAD LUCK

What if I am new to fishing?

No worries—everyone starts somewhere! Whether you’re a beginner or planning to introduce a child to the joys of fishing, there’s no reason to feel intimidated. Our beautiful mangrove shorelines, serene flats, and inviting beaches are perfect for anglers of all skill levels. Captain Chris is passionate about sharing his expertise to ensure you have an unforgettable fishing adventure. He’ll even take care of baiting your hook and casting for you! Embrace the thrill of fishing and make lasting memories with us. We can’t wait to help you embark on this exciting journey! Everyone starts somewhere, and we would love it if you did it with us.

What kind of boat will we be on?

Your fishing adventure will take place on our custom 2024 Shoalwater 23 Cat, which is powered by a Mercury ProXS 200 four-stroke motor. The boat features a large front casting platform and a spacious rear deck, providing ample room for 5 anglers to fish comfortably. With a draft of only 8 inches, the Shoalwater Cat can easily navigate the shallow waters along Florida’s Sports Coast and the choppy bays in the Tampa Bay area.

The vessel has large live wells, state-of-the-art electronics, first aid supplies, and all safety equipment required by law and the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG). It is serviced and maintained regularly to ensure your safety while on the water. Shade is also available. Captain Chris follows all state laws and regulations, prioritizing safety.

Where and when do we meet?

We use three dock locations. The captain will determine which location and time, depending on your specific trip. Trips generally start at 8 am. (Directions below)

Robert J. Strickland Memorial Park (Hudson Beach)

Hernando Beach boat ramp

Anclote River boat ramp

What if the weather is bad?

Florida’s weather can be unpredictable. Fishing trips may be rescheduled due to unfavorable weather conditions at the captain’s discretion. If Captain Chris believes you won’t be able to enjoy your trip because of the weather, he will either cancel or reschedule it. His priority is to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience. As a rule, we avoid going out on days with poor weather conditions. Keep in mind that a forecast showing a percentage of rain does not guarantee that it will rain. If it is determined that bad weather may affect your fishing charter, the captain will contact you to discuss rescheduling..

Is there a bathroom?

There is no bathroom or head on the boat; however, restrooms are available at the dock where we launch.

What will we catch?

One of the highlights of fishing along Florida’s Sports Coast is the wide variety of fish you can catch. Captain Chris specializes in inshore fishing using light tackle, carefully selecting equipment that matches the species of fish you want to target. He will recommend the most productive fishing methods and do everything possible to tailor the experience to catch species that are in season. Below is a list of fish you might catch during your trip.

Red Fish
Jack Crevalle
Speckled Sea Trout
Cobia
Snook
Sheepshead
Spanish Mackerel
Tarpon
Small Shark
Mangrove Snapper
Lady Fish

Do you tip the captain?

Gratuities are never expected, but greatly appreciated. If the captain did a good job, made the trip enjoyable, and had a good time, you might consider rewarding those efforts.

Leave A Tip

What kind of paddle boards do you use?

We use Irocker SUP stand-up paddle boards. My favorite board is the Blackfin Model XL. Check out IRockerSUP and use the discount code EPICTAILS30 to save $30 on a new board. https://irockersup.com/

Deposit & Cancellation Policy

A deposit of $100 is required at the time of booking. Once your deposit is received, any other inquiries for that date or time will be denied. We cannot hold a specific date unless a deposit has been received.

The remaining balance must be paid in full before your arrival. We accept cash, Venmo, and credit cards.

Bookings made within 24 hours of the charter start time are non-refundable and non-transferable, unless the captain cancels the trip due to weather or mechanical issues.

For 8 AM charters, cancellations must be made before 8 AM the day before the charter.

The captain reserves the right to cancel the fishing charter at any time due to weather or mechanical issues. In such cases, you will be rescheduled or refunded if rescheduling is not possible.

Please be mindful that if you cancel at the last minute, you leave the captain without a charter companion. Within the 24-hour window, they may have declined other opportunities to accommodate you. If you do not show up or call, you will forfeit your deposit and/or any payments made for the trip.

Make Deposit