Fishing trips, from inlet or bay outings to deep sea charters, are thrilling, big-water adventures. Great for sport anglers, general fishing enthusiasts and those who simply like the feeling of being out on the blue, fishing charters are found virtually everywhere. From the azure-blue waters of the Caribbean, where marlin and tuna are plentiful to the Pacific Northwest where salmon fishing is a birthright, the sky - or, rather, the sea - is the limit. While no amount of reading can really teach you how to fish, learning how and what to expect from a fishing charter is another story.
Whether you embark from a tropical marina or from Queen Charlotte lodge in British Columbia, chartering a fishing vessel is a great way to experience the majesty of the ocean as well as the thrill of the hunt - for the catch of the day, that is. A fishing charter is essentially a boat you hire to take you out on the water. Unlike an average fishing trip, though, there's nothing to carry on board except for the appropriate clothing, a light lunch and a little luck.
Single-day and multi-day charters are available. Multi-day excursions are generally a part of a larger package that also includes lodging, meals and other amenities. Queen Charlotte lodge, for example, offers such vacation getaway deals. Some might ask: why not just rent my own boat and go out on my own? For one, fishing charters provide you with everything needed to cast a line, including fishing poles, tackle and bait. Secondly, you have the benefit of an experienced captain and crew at your disposal, who typically clean and fillet your catch for you. Lastly, the necessary licenses are usually included in the price (make sure you ask, though, to be sure). More importantly, hiring a charter lets you enjoy the experience without having your hands tied up in actually operating the vessel.
Depending on where in the world you are, the fish selection will vary. In the tropical waters of the Caribbean, for instance, you might try to reel in a marlin, shark or tuna. Up in the Pacific Northwest, halibut fishing charters are big-time fun, and if it's the right time of year, the Coho salmon are plentiful. The species of fish you catch and the regulations governing their capture will determine what you can keep. They have to be of a certain length, and you can only keep a certain number of them. Some charters ask that you bring along your own cooler for storing the ones you keep.
Before heading out, make sure you have the appropriate clothing. Even in the summer, it'll be cooler on the sea, so dress for warmth. This is especially true in the spring and autumn. Sunglasses, a hat and sunblock are musts, as is a large bottle of water and a light lunch, and don't forget the camera to capture the moment when you reel in the big one. While you may not be required to wear a life vest when out at sea (one, by law, has to be provided for every person on the boat), it's always a smart idea, especially if you're hauling in a hundred-plus pound creature who's trying to get away as much as you're trying to pull him in!
No matter what your experience level, fishing charters are fun for all - singles, couples and families alike. Kids should be old enough to enjoy the experience and be able to stay all day on a boat, but they're always welcome. Don't forget to tip the captain directly at the end of the jaunt, as this is customary. In addition to a 15-20% tip for a job well done, they'll never refuse a gift of freshly caught sea critter, either.
