FAQs

Q.

What is your deposit/weather policy?

A.

Pick the day (or days) you would like to schedule and either call 904-790-1551, email, or book online. A deposit of $100 is required to confirm and hold your reservation date or dates at the time of booking. The balance is due by cash or debit card the day of the trip. The deposit is 100% refundable with a minimum of 72 hours cancellation notice or a forecast of unsafe weather. Your deposit may also be used to reschedule for another open date. Capt. Steve may not make the call to cancel for unsafe weather until the morning of your charter. The weather in Florida is highly unpredictable and can change up to the minute.

Q.

What is included on a charter trip?

A.

A charter with Madness Charters includes U.S. Coast Guard equipped boat, full time U.S. licensed Coast Guard captain, all required fishing licenses, rods and reels, live bait, artificial baits, tackle, fish box filled with ice and an iced down cooler for your beverages (aluminum cans and plastic bottles-no glass containers), photography and video.

Q.

What should we bring?

A.

You should bring whatever you wish to eat, beverages to drink, clothing suitable for weather conditions, boat shoes or white-soled tennis shoes, and non-marking rubber black sole shoes are o.k. hat, sunscreen, camera or video camera, and good polarized sunglasses are recommended for spotting fish. No BANANAS please!!! Ask Capt. Steve why bananas are bad mojo!

Q.

How much experience is needed?

A.

None. We regularly take children and novice to expert anglers and even seasoned professionals. Often we fish for certain species of fish and use old-school to advanced fishing methods. We have fun, give you 110% effort and will provide instruction and help you while fishing. I do appreciate the chance to be your guide on your day of fishing and will help you as needed.

Q.

Can I bring adult beverages and/or smoke?

A.

Yes, smoking is fine (no illegal substances). Beer and wine is best. Liquor is acceptable but all in moderation. Drink responsibly. Aluminum cans and plastic bottles only, no glass containers.

Q.

Should we tip the crew?

A.

Yes, if you had a good time, the captain & mate work hard for you and are courteous and helpful. Gratuities on charter fishing trips are customary, appreciated and appropriate. Average gratuities range from 10% to 20% as the norm, especially considering cleaning and bagging your fish catch, extra time and effort spent, etc.

Q.

How can I have a mount made of my catch?

A.

Should you catch yourself a trophy fish, Capt. Steve can refer you to a great local taxidermist. It is not necessary to kill a fish in order to obtain a complete replica trophy mount - we will only need measurements and photos.

Q.

Are we allowed to keep the fish we catch?

A.

You will be able to keep your catch as long as the fish is within the FWC size and bag limit regulations.