5 Questions to Ask Before Booking a Fishing Charter

maddie979
4 hours ago
4 min read

Knowing the right questions to ask before booking a fishing charter can mean the difference between an easygoing day on the water and a frustrating few hours you can’t wait to end.

After all, the best trips aren’t just about catching fish (granted, it’s an important part!). They’re about comfort, crew, and clear communication. So, before you commit to a charter, take a few minutes to ask the kind of questions that tell you what kind of experience you’re really signing up for.

Here are five to start with.

1. How Many People Can the Boat Comfortably Fit, and What Is the Setup Like?

For many people, a good charter typically feels roomy, relaxed, and well-organized. That’s why you should go beyond the maximum capacity listed on the paper and ask how many guests the boat can comfortably fit.

The answer will tell you a lot about the experience you’ll have once the lines hit the water.

If you’re traveling with kids, friends, or extended family, layout matters. Look for details like:

Onboard amenities: seating, storage, bathroom, and covered areas
Fishing space: room to cast without crossing lines
Private vs. shared trips: smaller groups often mean a more relaxed pace

Once you’ve got those answers, you’ll know more than just the boat’s size — you’ll understand how your day will feel. A little extra elbow room and the right setup can turn a few hours of fishing into an easy, social experience instead of a juggling act with tangled lines and tired kids.

2. What Kind of Fishing Experience Do I Actually Need?

Plenty of people hesitate to book because they’ve never held a rod before, but don’t overthink it. For beginners, one of the best first-time fishing charter tips is to ask how hands-on the crew will be. It’s entirely possible to find captains and crew who teach, guide, and do most of the heavy lifting.

They’ll help bait hooks, show you how to reel in, and share local tips that make you look like you’ve done this for years. Experience helps, but curiosity and patience go further.

Your only job is to bring the enthusiasm — they’ll handle the rest.

3. What’s Included and What Usually Costs Extra?

Money talk may feel a little awkward, but it’s smart. Don’t be afraid to ask directly about what’s covered in the charter price. Most provide the rods and the bait, but extras like food, fish cleaning, or fishing licenses can catch you off guard.

Some solid questions to ask a charter captain include:

Are fishing licenses included?
Is there an extra fee for cleaning or packaging fish?
Do I need to bring my own snacks or drinks?

An honest captain will happily walk you through the costs. The best ones are transparent up front, so you can just focus on the fun part — fishing.

4. What Happens if the Weather Is Bad or the Fish Aren’t Biting?

Even the most experienced captain can’t control the forecast or the fish. That’s why it’s always a good idea to ask early how the company handles cancellations or reschedules. A reputable outfit puts safety first and won’t send you out in rough water just to keep a booking.

And if the fish have other plans? That’s where skill and local knowledge kick in. The captain might change spots, switch bait, or adjust timing.

That said, keep in mind that the best charters don’t promise fish (they control the boat, not the wildlife). What they can do, though, is promise effort, adaptability, and a good attitude when conditions aren’t perfect.

5. Can I Keep What I Catch, and Who Cleans It?

It’s a satisfying feeling to reel in your own dinner. There’s just one problem: it’s not always an option. Regulations, species limits, and local rules vary, so make sure you know what’s allowed.

Also, ask if the crew offers cleaning or filleting services. After a few hours on the water, you’ll be glad someone else handles the scales and knives. You can find boats that offer this for a small fee, and they may even package your catch for easy transport home.

If not, bring a cooler with ice — that’s one of those overlooked details that separates rookies from pros in fishing charter etiquette.

Ready to Plan a Great Day on the Bay?

Asking these few questions ahead of time — plus packing the basics like sunscreen, snacks, and patience, of course — means you’ll actually enjoy the day instead of troubleshooting it. Knowing what to bring on a fishing charter and what to expect keeps everyone relaxed and focused on the fun.

And if you’re looking to spend a day fishing on Georgian Bay, we can help! Collingwood Charters offers private fishing experiences aboard the Huronic, starting at $950 for 3 – 4 hours. Every trip includes a continental breakfast with unlimited tea and coffee, plus a licensed lounge, large-screen TV, bathroom, and upper-deck seating for comfort and views.