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 AS SEEN IN THE NOV/DEC 2007 ISSUE
From what you need to
know before you go to selecting the perfect trip, a comprehensive resource for
resident and visiting anglers.
Head-boats, also known as “party-boats” or “drift-boats,”
are a type of large recreational fishing vessel that charges a fixed fee per
person – or per head - for regularly scheduled trips. Head-boats offer anglers
an economical means of enjoying saltwater fishing. Head-boats can be found
along the entire coast of Florida, and usually carry anywhere from 10-100
passengers on drift or bottom fishing excursions. Fishing trips on head-boats
vary, and between the standard four hour reef trip and multiple-day extreme
Middle Grounds jaunts, there is certainly a perfect trip waiting for you.
Be
aware that during tourist season, regularly scheduled day trips may be full of
inexperienced anglers which is why many ‘regulars’ book trips during the off
season, during periods of less than ideal weather, or during limited party
excursions. Almost every angler has experienced fishing on a head-boat at one
time or another, and while many would argue that they are a waste of time and
money and nothing more than a tourist trap, nothing could be further from the
truth. For anglers who have basic fishing skills, head-boats provide a good
chance of catching quality fish. All-in-all, head-boat fishing can be a great
experience and if you are well-prepared and know a few key tips to help
maximize your catch, you may just experience the trip of a lifetime!
Table of Contents:
-Before you go
-What to bring
-Tackle
-Etiquette
-What trip to book
-Don't forget about the crew
-Statewide list of head-boats
Before you go…
All party-boats operate differently, some work on a first
come first serve basis, while others require a reservation as they only have a
specific number of spots along the rail. This is especially true during special
trips that may last as long as 72 hours. If you plan on purchasing your ticket
in advance, ask the captain whether or not you can reserve a premium spot at
the rail. If you can not reserve a spot, then I suggest you arrive at the boat as
early as possible prior to departure so you can ensure a prime position along
the stern. It always benefits to fish from the stern of the boat, because when
the captain positions over a reef or other promising structure, he will without
question position the bow into the current. Anglers who fish from the bow and
sides will constantly have to deal with their lines running astern, towards the
inevitable “tangle city.”
Be sure to ask the captain if his mates will actively fish
while on the trip. Most professional operations do not allow this practice, however
on some, this is a normal occurrence. When mates are allowed to fish, it tends
to distract them from servicing paying customers. Before you pay, ask what the
policy is, it will surely affect your experience.
Inquire if you are permitted to bring your own live bait.
Some boats actually provide lockable bait-wells ideally suited for keeping
pinfish, squirrelfish and other prime treats healthy and happy. Finally, ask
about the galley – if they provide food and beverages - and if you are
permitted to bring your own cooler or if the crew will be ‘marking’ and icing
your catch.
What to bring…
All party-boats rent fishing equipment, but I highly suggest
bringing your own gear if at all possible. I would never rely on someone else’s
equipment to get the job done when powerful fish are on the line – no pun
intended. I always bring my own rods, reels, terminal tackle, and bait. Even if
I am going on a half day trip, I bring enough gear to suffice for any situation
that may occur. Fishing licenses are normally included in the fare, but double check
with the captain just to be sure.
To help protect from the suns harmful rays, I suggest
bringing a long-billed hat, polarized sunglasses and sunscreen with a high sun
protection factor. Extra clothes and rain gear are always good to have in case
of a stray squall. Non-slip, rubber soled shoes or lightweight fishing boots are
also helpful on wet, slippery decks. All of this is especially important during
extended overnight excursions.
Because you are going fishing with strangers and not your
neighbors, the captain will not turn the boat around if you start feeling seasick.
If you are prone to motion sickness, I suggest taking Dramamine or an
equivalent motion sickness remedy. Lastly, two other items that are important
and often forgotten are bungee cords and a hand towel. Bungee cords can help
prevent gear from slapping the rail or sliding around deck while the towel can
be used to wipe off slimy hands. Whatever you do, don't forget your camera, and
remember cash in small denominations to tip the crew. If you are in doubt about
anything, it is better to bring it and not need it then need it and not have
it.
Tackle…
For a half or full day bottom fishing trip – four or eight
hours – snapper and grouper are the most commonly targeted game fish. Because
these great tasting bottom fish can be line shy, I suggest using light line and
fluorocarbon leader. Be sure to check with the captain about the gear you plan
on bringing, as some party boat crews are not fond of anglers fishing
ultra-light monofilament or braided line. Typically, the old beater rods that
head-boats supply are filled with heavy line in the 30-50lb. range. The reason
for this is so anglers can bring in fish quick and avoid tangles. I would
prefer to use a 20lb. spinning outfit for catching bait and manageable
yellowtail snapper, while a larger 30lb. conventional outfit will tackle large mangrove
snapper, grouper and incidental king mackerel.
Anglers fishing on extended Gulf Coast head-boat trips
should bring a variety of outfits for different situations. As I just
mentioned, first, a 20lb. spinner can be used to catch bait and juvenile snapper.
A 30lb. conventional outfit can be used to target larger reef and wreck
dwellers and mid-water pelagics, while a stout 50lb. outfit will haul wahoo,
amberjack and large grouper. For swordfish, shark and tuna, a 60-80lb. stand-up
outfit will suffice.
As far as terminal tackle is concerned, a variety of leader
material in the 20-100lb. class, an assortment of hooks and plenty of
egg-sinkers in the 1-8 oz. size will suffice for all of your natural bait
needs. A variety of bucktail jigs will complete a well-rounded arsenal.
Etiquette…
I already mentioned the benefits of arriving early, but be
courteous to the crew and arrive no later than 20 minutes before the scheduled
departure. On your head-boat excursion, you will be fishing in close proximity
to other anglers and ultimately, close to other fishing lines. It is not
uncommon to get in tangles and when it happens, do not get upset or frustrated.
If someone near you hooks a large fish, it would be courteous to wind up your
line until their fish has been landed. You would expect the same courtesy. When
fighting fish, use the railing for support while moving around the boat, and
watch your step and rod tip around other anglers.
While most head-boats allow alcohol consumption while on
board, remember that you are on a fishing trip and not on a booze cruise. I
guarantee your neighboring anglers will not be to happy fishing next an
inebriated booze-hound. A few Budweisers is okay…chugging Bacardi straight from
the bottle is not.
What trip to book…
In our great state of Florida, there are numerous party-boat
fishing trips worth experiencing. Although it may sound obvious, before you
make a reservation, be sure you know what type of trip you will be heading out on.
Generally, there are three trips offered, half day, full day, and overnighters.
Some boats offer specialty trips like nigh snapper fishing, shark fishing, 12,
24, & 44 hour reef/wreck fishing, swordfish trips, and long-range multiple
day trips that target highly migratory species. The most basic half day trips
usually last four hours, and are usually loaded with novice anglers. The price
of a half day trip is generally between $20 and $40, and includes bait, fishing
license and equipment rental. Because time limits the area in which captains
can explore, I suggest taking a full day trip if at all possible. Full day head-boat
trips usually last eight hours and start at about $50 per person. These trips
usually have more competent anglers with popular boats carrying many
“regulars.” On these trips, if you are somewhat of an experienced angler and
the fish cooperate, it is definitely possible to put together solid catches.
New to South Florida is the Catch My Drift, an 85' party-boat that offers Friday night
swordfishing trips departing from Port Everglades that last from 6:00 p.m. –
2:00 a.m. The trip is limited to 15 passengers and the price is $100 per person.
For $15 more, they offer heavy duty tackle rental. With a cruising speed just over
20 knots, the short run to the fishing grounds seems like nothing more than a
hop, skip and jump. Although the crew provides squid and blue runner, don't
hesitate to bring your own offerings. Rigged mackerel are irresistible to hungry
swordfish. To ensure that everyone leaves with some tasty table fare, all of
the broadbills caught are evenly divided between the paying passengers. This insures
an awesome trip is had by all. Because of high demand and limited space, I
suggest you book your swordfish adventure well in advance.
The Viking Fleet out of Tarpon Springs, offers long range
canyon trips that target wahoo, tuna swordfish, grouper and snapper. These
extended trips are not for everyone. The hardcore anglers on these trips are
serious, focused and extremely dedicated. The boat typically leaves at night
and arrives at the famous Middle Grounds by dawn. Daytime hours are focused on
trolling for tuna, wahoo, sailfish and dolphin, while evening hours are spent
drifting for swordfish and tuna. Anglers on this trip also target deep water
grouper like snowy, scamp, mystic, black and Kitty Mitchell. If you are
interested in a trip like this, it is advised that you make a reservation
early, as most sell out months in advance.
Due to the success of the extended Middle Ground trip, the Viking
Fleet also offers a full moon deep water snapper and grouper tour. This trip
involves deep water fishing for grouper during the day and during evening
hours, the boat anchors over prime structure to target the elusive mutton
snapper. This trip is limited to 10 passengers, and electrically-powered deep-drop
outfits are available for rent for only $50.
Located approximately 20 miles from Key West are the
Marquesas Keys. This tiny group of islands is known for its remarkable
sportfishing, but because of its distance from the mainland, the charter fleet
generally doesn't make the long run and the fishing is virtually untouched.
Several Key West head-boats offer trips to the Marquesas, so check the local
docks for availability.
Even further west of the Marquesas are the fertile grounds known
as the Dry Tortugas. The Florida Fish
Finder offers two and three day overnight trips to the rich wrecks and
reefs around the Dry Tortugas. They have packages that include meals, select
spots around the railing and with a maximum capacity of 36 paying anglers, the
spacious vessel offers private bunks and comfortable surroundings for all
passengers.
The above is just a
brief overview of some of the many exciting trips available to Florida anglers.
If you are new to head boat fishing, I would suggest you start out by
experienced a half or full day trip before setting off on a three or four day
full-blown adventure.
Don't forget about the crew…
On most head-boats, the deckhands work for gratuities.
Although they may get some “slave wages,” most of their income is derived from tips.
Be as generous as you feel, and don't hesitate to tip the mates well. As a
general rule, 20 percent of your trip cost with an additional fee for fish
cleaning services is adequate. If you do not feel that the mates were helpful
and do not deserve a gratuity, then I advise you speak with the captain and let
him know why you are disappointed. Speaking of the captain, remember that they
are not overpaid individuals either. If the fishing was good and the captain
put you on the ‘spot,’ then by all means show him your appreciation. Remember, the
crew can’t take “Thanks” to the banks. Without the help from the crew, your
trip would not be possible.
In conclusion, regardless if you are a boatless angler itching
to fish or if you are just visiting our wonderful Sunshine State and simply
want to experience our bountiful waters, head-boats provide an affordable
alternative that should not be overlooked. With a little preparation and proper
execution, the results you’ll experience may very well persuade you, too, to
become a “regular.”
Statewide
List of Party-Boats:
Pensacola Beach
Chulamar 850.934.8037 www.chulamar.com
Entertainer 850.934.1613
Frances J 850.937.9667
Lively One II 850.932.5071
Native Son's 850.497.0852 www.fishingperdidokey.com
Real Eazy 850.932.6007 www.reeleazy.com
Quester 850.698.5068
Total Package 850.485.5940
Panama City
Capt. Anderson 850.234.3435
Gemini Queen 850.234.3435
Jubilee 850.236.2111 www.jubileefishing.com
Treasure Island 850.230.9222
Destin
Sweet Jody 850.650.2500 www.fishing-destin.com
Destin Princess 888.837.5088 www.destinpartyboatfishing.com
Destiny 888.837.5088 www.destinpartyboatfishing.com
Swoop I & II 850.337.8250 www.swooppartyboat.com
New FL Girl 850.837.6422
America II 850.837.1293
Emerald Magic 850.837.1293
Olin Marler 850.837.7095 www.olinmarlercharterboats.com
St. Petersburg
Miss Pass-A-Grill 727.367.9833
Tarpon Springs
Dolphin Deep Sea
727.937.8257 www.twogeorgesdeepseafishing.com
Viking Fleet 888.FL.TRIPS www.vikingfleet.com
Sarasota
Flying Fish Fleet 941.366.3373 www.flyingfishfleet.com
Port Richey
Miss Virginia 727-862-5516 www.missvirginiadeepseafishing.com
Clearwater
Double Eagle 727.446.1653
Queen Fleet 727.446.7666 www.queenfleet.com
Madeira Beach
Florida Fisherman II 727.393.1947
www.hubbardsmarina.com
Jacksonville
Mayport Princess 904.241.4111 www.mayportprincessfishing.com
King Neptune 904.220.6363 www.kingneptunefishing.com
St. Augustine
Sea Love 904.824.3328 www.sealovefishing.com
Cape Canaveral
Orlando Princess 321.784.6300 www.orlandoprincess.com
Canaveral Star 321.784.6300 www.orlandoprincess.com
Miss Cape 321.783.5274 www.misscape.com
Ocean Obsession II 888.FISH.FLA www.fishobsession.com
Ft. Pierce
Captain Lew 772.231.8192 www.captlew.com
Lady Stuart II 888.523.9788 www.ladystuart.com
Seven B's V 800.371.3474 www.sevenbs.com
Jensen Beach
Safari I 772.334.4411 www.safari-1.com
Lady Stuart I 888.523.9788 www.ladystuart.com
New Smyrna
Critter Fleet 800.338.0850 www.critterfleet.com
Pastime Princess 386.427.5393 www.pastimeprincess.com
Sebastian
Sebastian Lady 772.581.6200 www.captnbutcher.com
Jupiter
Blue Heron Fleet 561.844.3573 www.deepseafishingflorida.com
Boynton Beach
Sea Mist III
561.732.9974 www.boyntonbeach.com/fishing/seamist
Lady K 561.588.7612
Pompano Beach
Fish City Pride 954.781.1211
Helen S 954.941.3209
Ft. Lauderdale
Catch My Drift 954.527.3460 www.fishheadquarters.com
Flamingo 954.462.9194 www.flamingofishing.com
Sea Legs III 954.923.2109
Mary B 954.525.4665
Miami
The Reward Fleet 305.372.9470 www.therewardfleet.com
Kelley Fleet 305.945.3801 www.miamibeachfishing.com
Blue Sea II 305.358.3416 www.bluesea2.com
Key Largo
Gulfstream 305.451.9788
Sailors Choice 305.451.1802 www.sailorschoicefishingboat.com
Marathon
Sea King 305.289.0827
Marathon Lady 305.743.5580 www.fishfloridakeys.com/marathonlady
Islamorada
Miss Islamorada 800.742.7945
Capt. Michael 877.664.8498 www.robbies.com
Key West
Yankee Capts 800.942.5464 www.yankeecapts.com
Greyhound V 305.296.5139
Tortuga IV 305.293.1189 www.tortugacharters.com
Gulfstream III 305.296.8494 www.keywestpartyboat.com
Greyhound V 305.296.5139
Florida Fish Finder
888.362.3474 www.fishingfloridakeys.com
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