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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What should I bring for my fishing trip?
We provide water and ice. Anything else you’d like to eat or drink you should bring. Though there is usually ample room in our onboard coolers, you may bring a small cooler for your provisions if you’d prefer. Clothing is seasonal, but it’s sunny here and most often quite warm. Layering is recommended, especially utilizing anti-UV protective clothing. We suggest sunblock, polarized sunglasses and hat. Shoes should be made for wet surfaces. Plan on memorable moments, so bring your favorite camera. No handheld GPS devices are allowed on board, thank you.

Can I keep my catch?
If we keep legal sized, edible fish they are yours to keep. We will clean as many of the fish as time allows upon our return to the dock. No additional charge is added, but the service is part of what you can consider in your gratuity. The crew does not expect, but does appreciate any extra fish to take home for their family and friends; you are not to feel any pressure in these regards. Some guests love to eat fish, and are anxious to get their haul home, while others are satisfied with less, and like sharing the day’s bounty. We’re happy to be a part of your adventure.
There are plenty of local restaurants that will prepare your fresh catch for a charge. You might keep the glow going right on into dinner.

Are there tipping guidelines?
Charter fishing is a service business, and the crew intends to please. A tip is greatly appreciated. Based on the effort put forth, a tip is generally in the amount of 15 – 20 % of the trip cost. You may either add the amount to the trip, or pay as a separate amount directly to the captain, who will see to the division among the crew.

Can I bring my own equipment?
You are welcome to bring your own, but we do proudly provide quality gear and tackle. Also, we provide all necessary licensing.

Is bait provided?
We provide bait. Dead and frozen bait of various kinds are brought, usually tallying anywhere from $50 to $75 dollars. In addition we will typically spend time catching/netting live bait for the trip as we make our way out for the day. However, arrangements can be made to order live bait before hand. There is added costs that will depend on the type of bait to be pre-ordered. In this case you would want to call or email your request well in advance of your trip so that arrangements are made. The cost could run anywhere from $50 to $200, depending on the type and amount of the bait, and its availability.

What are your safety measures and your qualifications?
I am a US Coastguard licensed captain. The Tarpon Tamer is inspected and certified to meet or exceed all required safety measures, on-board apparatus and functionality. I am a fourth generation native to this area, and have been fishing these waters for more than 50 years. My crew consists of able bodied and experienced fisherman, whom I train for service aboard the Tarpon Tamer.

What experience is necessary?
Mostly attitude – a good one. We love to have all levels, and ages of anglers. We fish with experts, and those who’ve never held a rod. We teach, we compete, we still learn. We have fun, and we’re dedicated to helping you have the time of your life.

How many anglers can go?
We’re licensed for up to 6.

Can I bring alcoholic beverages?
Yes, but everyone must drink responsibly and be 21 or older (remember – you’re going to be in Florida). However, we reserve the right to cut-short the trip and return to the dock should anyone get out of hand. Safety for all will be followed. In such an event the charter fee will be due in full.

What is your cancellation policy?
If you cancel more than 7 days prior to the trip, you will receive a full refund. If it is within that period you will forfeit your deposit. Trips canceled by the captain (weather, mechanical, sickness) result in a full refund.

What is your policy regarding weather and vessel conditions?
In the end it is the captain’s call, and is always made in the best interests of the safety of the party and crew. Generally the waterways around Naples provide ample shelter from most winds, but if things prove to be too rough, a decision to cancel can be made. In such cases we offer to reschedule as best we can accommodate, or offer full refund. Know that we only want the very best experience for our customers, and for that we maintain a healthy and alert respect for nature and changing conditions.

What forms of payment do you accept?
Charters are made on-line with credit cards, where add a 4% service fee. We accept checks or cash. We provide trip confirmations that also include your receipt.

How do I book my trip?
Hit the Book Now button wherever you find it in our website. From there you just follow prompts, select your date(s), the number of anglers, and your trip choice, then submit and confirm. That’s it! If you need special arrangements or need to talk, please call (239) 340-3474, or email me at [email protected].

What is the address for Tarpon Tamer?
Our mailing address is 1441 19th Street SW, Naples, FL 34117. But you will board the Tarpon Tamer at whatever location you set in your Booking: If in Naples, we will meet you at the Naples City Dock, located in Crayton Cove in Old Naples, 880 12th Avenue South Naples, Florida 34102; If in Gasparilla, we will meet you at the Gasparilla Marina, 500 Gasparilla Road, Englewood, Florida 33946. Call us at (239) 340-3473 if you need help of further directions.

Thank you for reading up on us. We hope you decide to book a trip with us, but if you don’t we wish you and yours tight lines. Remember that we love family and corporate outings. We’ve organized countless outings using multiple boats and guides, so come on down and let’s have some fun.

Wishing all the best,

CAPT. PHIL HALEY
CELL-239-340-3473