What to Expect
So, you want to go fishing, but don't know what to expect or what to bring? We got you. Conditions offshore can change rapidly and depending on time of year and the trip planned, you want to be prepared.
What we have, what you might need
The Boat, Fuel, Rods, Tackle, and Bait are all included in you trip. If you have rods and tackle you'd prefer to use, we are happy to accommodate, but ask that you inform the captain before hand so he and the mate are prepared for storage. There is plenty of storage on the boat for your personal items, but a word of caution that things tend to move around due to seas and the more gear onboard the less room you have to move around. Below is a list of things we recommend for consideration. Although not required, we have found these things to be useful.
Sunscreen
This is almost a must. Let's face it, it's NC. It's either 200F or it's snowing. On the water, it'll probably be hot and the sun shows little mercy. There is A/C in the boat salon, but we plan to keep you busy on the back of the boat catching fish so make sure you stay protected
Sunglasses
The captain won't leave the dock without his, I think that says enough about this one.
Extra Clothes
Depending on weather and what we fish for, I always think its a good idea to have an extra set of clothes for full day trips, if nothing else to have a clean and dry set when we get back to the dock. You may not need them, but it doesn't hurt to be prepared.
Jacket/Coat
Depending on the time of year, it can be chilly out there. Waterproof is also a definite plus. The weather offshore is not the same as it is on land. Just keep an eye on normal temps for that time of year and don't hesitate to call captain Zack if you have any question.
Food/
Snacks
One thing you will definitely want is food. Depending on the trip you are booking, you may just want something light to snack on or you may want a full meal. There is a microwave on the boat for your convenience. For full day trips, ham sandwiches, a pizza from the marina grill, or a box of fried chicken go a long way towards a pleasurable day.
Drinks/
Cooler
You will also want a drink cooler and drinks. We do not have a rule against alcohol, but we do ask that no hard liquor be brought on board as we've had bad experiences with this. We also ask that you refrain from bringing glass bottles as busted glass in the back of a boat is not fun for you or the mate.
A Towel
You never know when we might be backing into a swell hooked to a grander blue marlin, you might need to dry yourself off.
A Camera
I doubt this needs much explanation. Memories will be made that can never be exactly reproduced, be prepared to capture the moments with family and friends. Besides, isn't that what it's all about?
Pillow/
Blanket
Not as important for half day trips, but a full day offshore is about a 2hr ride out. Take advantage of the nice couches.
Fish Cooler/Bag
Catching fish, by nature, is not a guarantee. However, you definitely want to be something to get your catch back home.
Shoes
This is a little subjective, but closed toe shoes are recommended when offshore. This doesn't mean you can't wear sandals or flip flops or even go barefoot. Just be mindful of the fact that there may very well be some big gamefish thrown in the back of the boat with some big hooks flying around.
On the Boat
We want this trip to completely satisfy you. We will approach this as a full service, guided experience. However, we know for some of you, this isn't your first rodeo. If you want to be "all hands on deck", just let us know and we will involve you as much as you'd like in the rigging, bait handling, gaffing and setting rods. We want this to be a learning experience and are more than happy to share the knowledge that has been freely shared with us. The boat is owned by the captain and mate and we work hard to keep it in good shape. If there is anything we can do to help accommodate or improve, please let us know. We strive to be easy going. You won't hear yelling and fighting, you wan't hear "sailors" language. We are family people, and we want to share that.