Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plan my trip?                                        

Texas offshore weather & wave conditions are generally some of roughest in the Gulf of Mexico due to the western location of our coastline.  The most consistent periods of light winds and small seas occur from June through October.  Although this is the "calmest" period, flat calm days can happen anytime of the year and fall, winter, & spring fishing can be excellent due to cooler temperatures and light fishing pressure.  Feel free to plan a date for your trip at anytime throughout the year but be prepared to have 1 or 2 backup dates in case your primary trip date is canceled due to weather.

Matagorda offshore fishing "Standby" list:  From November through May, we usually have to plan around short weather "windows" when we can go offshore fishing.  We constantly monitor these weather windows and will contact individuals on our "standby" list to put together a shared charter trip.  Customers on our standby list need to be able to join a trip within short notice (2-3 days in advance) based on the availability of these windows.  Although the weather can be inconstant at times, Texas offshore fishing can be very good for many species year round.  See the below "Matagorda offshore fishing calendar" to plan a trip based on species.  

WHAT WEATHER CONDITIONS ARE REQUIRED?

Weather cancellations will be rescheduled for the next available date or the deposit will be refunded - The Captain reserves the right to make the final go/no-go decision based on weather conditions. Trips scheduled during sea conditions over 3 feet (I.E. 2-4, 3-4, 3-5 foot seas) or periods of high thunderstorm probability will be re-scheduled in most cases. Because of recent Matagorda Jetty entrance shoaling, we must now plan our departure and return around reduced swells and incoming tides to reduce bottom contact with the vessel’s running gear. The captain will discuss all of the above with you a few days prior to your trip.

What should I bring?

Bring sunscreen, appropriate clothing for the weather, towel, your food & drinks, camera, seasickness medications, a cooler, large zip lock bags for your fish, and cash tips for the crew and captain.  Please try to pack all belongings into 1 small/medium bag. MOST GROUPS BRING WAY TOO MUCH ONBOARD. Remember, this is a fishing trip, not a camping trip. We will try to fit all of your food and drinks in the onboard drink boxes and refrigerator/f freezer but one standard size cooler is permitted for excess food and drinks.

What should I wear?

Appropriate clothing & non-marking, light (no black soles) soled shoes. Flip flops are nice because they are easy to take off before entering the vessel.

What do you provide?

We will provide all bait, tackle, and ice for your catch. We provide food if you purchase the optional meal package.

Do I need a fishing license?

Yes, you will need a Texas fishing license with saltwater stamp.  Fishing licenses are available in Matagorda.

How do you handle weather cancellations?

Weather cancellations will be rescheduled for the next available date or the deposit will be refunded - The Captain reserves the right to make the final go/no-go decision based on weather conditions.  Trips scheduled during sea conditions over 3 feet (I.E. 2-4, 3-4, 3-5 foot seas) or periods of high thunderstorm probability will be re-scheduled in most cases. 

Do you guarantee we will catch fish?

There is no way we can guarantee we will always catch the species of fish we are targeting.  However, we can usually find a species of fish that we can catch on any given day.  Our captains are highly experienced and will go to great lengths to put you on fish!  We do enjoy a very high success rate!

What if I get seasick while onboard?

Usually in fairness to other paying customers aboard, once we leave dock there will be no returning until the end of the scheduled trip time unless the entire party is in agreement.  Full charter rates will be charged regardless.

How do I use the restroom while offshore?

Our boat has an enclosed marine head in the forward cabin portion.

What type of safety gear do you carry on the boat?

Our boat carries a full range of safety gear including offshore life vests, satellite phone, radar, 2 EPIRBs (emergency satellite locator beacon), VHF radios, and life raft. 

How do you handle payments?

A deposit of 20% is required up front to schedule & book trip.  Remainder of payment is due before departure.

Do I need to tip?

Your captain & crew work hard to make your trip enjoyable and successful.  Fish cleaning is not included but is done as a courtesy. All tips are appreciated!

Do you take credit cards?

Yes, we also accept credit cards, paypal, cash, & personal checks. We charge an additional 3.5% for paypal or credit card transactions.