For locals and tourists, fishing charters are a great way to get the family out on the water for a day of fun. Anglers of all experience levels are welcome aboard charter fishing boats in the coastal waters of Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina. Although charter captains have set pricing, it is best to leave a tip in addition to the set rate. However, the question always remains, what to tip an inshore fishing charter captain.

What Kind Of Fish Can Be Caught On An Inshore Fishing Charter

North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia’s coastal waters are rich in populations of redfish, sea trout, flounder, sheepshead, and bonnethead shark. Charter captains are well-versed in the waters and know how to find these kinds of fish even on the most challenging days when bites may be limited. Check out the North Carolina fish guide.

How Do You Find An Inshore Charter Captain

Finding an inshore charter captain can be done in a multitude of ways. The first way and the best way is to ask around. Marinas and friends are a great place to start. Ask them what type of experience they had and if they would recommend the captain.

The second method is to utilize the internet. Search fishing charters near me and look over the list that pulls up. Remember to read reviews before deciding on who to go with. To be location specific type South Carolina inshore fishing charter, North Carolina inshore fishing charter, or Georgia inshore fishing Charter.

Lastly, watch fishing shows on television or Youtube. The most experienced captains will often be asked as a guest on a televised fishing show to educate the public on local fishing opportunities.

How Expensive Is An Inshore Fishing Charter

Most inshore fishing boats are smaller than offshore vessels. Therefore, they can be limited on the number of total passengers. Most four-hour trips range between three hundred and four hundred dollars. Yes, this sounds expensive but keep in mind the cost of the boat, equipment, bait, and captain’s expertise.

The benefit of fishing with friends is that the cost can be divided amongst each other. One hundred dollars per person is a reasonable price for four hours of fishing.

Should a Captain Be Tipped On Top Of The Rate

Yes, a fishing charter captain should receive a tip on top of the set rate. They put in far more effort than most would ever consider.

Why Should A Inshore Fishing Charter Captain Receive A Tip

There are many reasons why an inshore fishing captain should receive a tip in addition to the charter fee.

No Mate

A coastal fishing charter vessel is not large enough to carry both a captain and a mate like offshore fishing boats. As a result, the captain must operate the boat and assist the guests.

When you’re out on the charter, watch the many hats the captain must wear. They will teach you to fish, drive the boat, retie the line as many times as needed, bait the hook, guide you where to cast, remove the hook from a fish, clean the fish at the dock. Remember, don’t be afraid to ask the captain for any inshore fishing tips.

Before And After The Charter

Don’t assume the captain steps onto the boat and everything is ready or walks off as soon as the vessel is secured to the dock. You as the customer, must remember this when it comes to how much to tip a fishing guide.

Before The Inshore Fishing Charter

Before the charter begins, the one-person crew is filling coolers with ice, loading the live bait in the well, preparing the fishing gear, and developing a plan for catching as many fish as possible.

After The Inshore Fishing Charter

After the North Carolina inshore charter, South Carolina inshore fishing charter, or Georgia inshore fishing charter ends, the boat doesn’t clean itself. Fish blood, crumbs, spilled drinks, and footprints all need to be removed for the next day’s trip. The fishing equipment must be sprayed to remove saltwater and greasing if required. Don’t forget, they also need to visit the fuel dock. Take this all into account when you’re thinking about how much do you tip a fishing guide.

How Much Should The Captain Be Tipped

Here is the best way to determine how much tip charter boat. The general rule of thumb is that the inshore fishing charter captain should be tipped 20% of the fishing adventure cost. Therefore, $80 should be added to a $400 outing. Keep in mind $80 is standard for a tip for 4 hour fishing charter however some captains offer 6 and 8-hour options, therefore, the tip increases. If, for some odd reason, the captain did a lousy job or just simply didn’t care, then lower the percentage of tip for boat captain.

Remember To Tip Your Fishing Captain

Although a fishing charter can empty out the wallet, it can leave lasting memories. Charter captains will put in their best effort because their reputation depends on it. Word of mouth from a good reputation is crucial for fisherman to pay their bills and support their families. Remember to add on a tip because of all of the behind-the-scenes work they put in before, during, and after your day of fishing. Now you know how much should you tip a fishing guide. Lastly, this applies to South Carolina inshore fishing, Georgia inshore fishing, and North Carolina inshore fishing.