While fishing can be fun for the whole family, if you are planning—or just
dreaming of—a fishing trip, here’s a tip: Hiring a fishing guide or charter boat is one of the best ways to ensure that your family will have a great day on the water. These professionals can help you find and catch the fish.

To help you line up a charter boat or fishing guide, takemefishing.org offers several helpful tips:

Do your research. Start with an online search. Takemefishing.org has a helpful search tool for finding guides and charters by locality.

Set a budget. Depending on where you're going fishing and for how long, prices will vary. Generally, fishing guides take out two to three people and prices can range from $150 to $500 per day. Fishing charters let you rent the boat and crew for the day at prices ranging from $500 to $1200 per day, for up to six people at a time.  “Headboats” take out 20 to 60 people at a time and charge $30 to $75 per person.

Don’t forget about tipping. The mate and crew of a fishing charter depend on tips. A standard tip is 10 to 20 percent of the fee, depending on the quality of the service. Captains usually own the boat and tipping is not expected, but is appreciated for exceptional service.

Ask questions before you book. Once you’ve identified a guide or charter, ask:

• Have they worked with kids?
• Will they fillet the catch? Is there an extra fee?
• In the event of bad weather, is the deposit refundable?
• Is a fishing license required?
• Is there a bathroom on board?
• Is the boat in compliance with Coast Guard and state safety regulations?

Be sure to let them know the kind of fishing you are interested in. For example, do you want to catch a lot of fish or go for size over quantity? The more they know about what you are looking for, the better your experience will be.

Bring the essentials. Most charter boats and guides will provide everything you need to enjoy a day out on the water—equipment, ice, bait and tackle. But there are a few things you’ll want to be sure to bring:

• Camera
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses and hat
• Weather-appropriate clothing
• Lunch or snacks
• A cooler (if you’re planning to take your catch home)
• Positive attitude

Hiring a fishing guide or charter boat can get you to where the fish are biting. Your family and friends can have the best experience possible while increasing the chance that they'll want to go fishing with you again.