Frequently Asked Questions

Captain Jeremy believes in always being prepared, so he's put together this list of questions that he's heard over the years.   That way the Reel Native crew can ensure that you have the best possible charter.

Q:     What makes Reel Native better than any other boat?

A:     There are dozens of factors that you need to consider when selecting a fishing charter.  Size of the boat, cost, experience, service etc...   We think Reel Native Charters stands out because of the personal attention that you're going to receive.  Captain Jeremy is the owner of the boat; he's not a hired Captain booking charters for the owner.  He's not a corporation with multiple boats all trying to turn a profit.    Reel Native is a family run business, and fishing is the goal.

Q:     How many people can I bring on the charter?

A:     Reel Native is configured and legally allowed to carry six passengers HOWEVER, we STRONGLY suggest that you keep your charter to four passengers.  We're a smaller boat and believe in personalized service.

Q:     What do I need to bring with me for the charter?

A:     Captain Jeremy and Reel Native charters provides the boat, the crew and all of the necessary fishing gear for your charter.   We keep an ample supply of ice and water onboard as well as assorted soft drinks.  You're going to want to pack things like sunscreen, sun glasses, a hat and of course your digital camera.  If you've got a favorite fishing rod, bring that along as well.

Q:     Is there food onboard?

A:     Reel Native does not provide food with our fishing charters.  We can arrange to have food onboard for charters at a fee of $25.00 per person which would include sandwiches, chips, fresh fruit and snacks OR we can provide you with some information on incredible local deli's prior to your charter.   There is a refrigerator and stove onboard available for your use as well.

Q:     Can we drink onboard?

A:     Drinking beer and fishing almost run hand in hand.   Most fisherman aren't too far from a cold beer.    Drinking onboard Reel Native is allowed and you're more than welcome to bring a cooler of beer or beer for our onboard cooler.   Remember, you're out in the hot sun, so drinking plenty of water is very important.   Captain Jeremy will also put an end to onboard drinking if at any time your safety becomes compromised.

Q:     I'm a smoker, can I smoke during the charter?

A:     Yes, cigarette and cigar smoking is allowed in any of the boat's open spaces.   This is limited to the bow, tower and aft cockpit.   Absolutely no smoking will be allowed inside the boat.   Also, any possession of non-tobacco products will result in an instant termination of the charter.  Both Captain Jeremy and the United States Coast Guard have a ZERO TOLERANCE law while onboard.

Q:     I've never been deep sea fishing before.   I'm nervous.

A:     Don't be nervous; be ready for a memory of a lifetime.  Over the years Captain Jeremy has fished with beginners reeling in their first game fish as well as with seasoned anglers.   You're not going to be cutting bait, looking for the tell tale signs of nearby fish or rigging gear.  That's the job of the Captain Jeremy and his first mate.  What you're going to do is fish.   And don't be afraid to ask questions, Captain Jeremy is a wealth of fishing knowledge (far beyond the fish stories he tells) and will make sure you're ready to go.   And when he tells you about the biggest fish of his life, you know the one that got away.. Just smile..   You'll be telling the same story tomorrow...

Q:     How do I reserve the charter and pay you?

A:     Deposits to hold a particular date can be made here via our ship's store.   Payments are accepted online using Visa, MasterCard or American Express.   The balance of the charter must be paid prior to departure from the dock on the day of the charter.    Charter prices are listed on our PRICES page.   If Captain Jeremy is providing onboard meals, those costs will be added to your total at the time of departure.  Deposits are non-refundable, the deposit balance will be applied to a future reservation in the event of cancellation or inclement weather.  Captain Jeremy can not accept credit cards at the time of departure, so all balances must be paid in cash, check or money order at time of departure or in advance online via credit card.   If you wish to pay online prior to departure, Captain Jeremy will send you a PayPal invoice.

Q:     Am I expected to tip the Captain or Mate?

A:     On larger boat's it is rather common for the charter guests to tip the mate and sometimes the Captain.  On average it's about 15% of the total charter costs, more if the boat is full of fish when you return to the dock.  Captain Jeremy sometimes has a mate onboard but most of the time is a one man show.  If there is a mate onboard, remember that they are most likely there an hour before you are and several hours after you leave making sure that your charter ran perfectly.   If it's just Captain Jeremy, have a beer with him when the boats tied up and tell him how much you enjoyed your day.  Telling all your buddies back at the office would be nice, too.

Q:     What if the weather is bad?

A:     Welcome To South Florida!   We've got days where it's picture perfect weather and days where we'd rather be anywhere than on the ocean.  First and foremost however is your safety and Captain Jeremy won't even consider leaving the dock if the weather is that bad.   We'll gladly reschedule your charter to another time.

Q:     What if we don't catch any fish?

A:     Well, that happens. Not often, but it does.  Captain Jeremy uses his years of experience to try to put you on the fish but sometimes you just cann't fight the fishing gods.   

Q:     Do I need a fishing license?

A:     No, you're on a licensed fishing boat and are under that fishing license.

Q:     Can I keep and mount my catch?

A:     Having a fish mounted so that you can display it in your home or office is easily accomplished.  There are many local taxidermy shops that perform that service and Captain Jeremy can assist you.   On average, mounting a fish can cost several hundred dollars and takes some time.    Captain Jeremy strongly believes in tagging and releasing trophy fish so how about a great picture for your wall instead?