How to Book a Fishing Charter
Everything you need to know about booking a fishing charter in New Jersey - from party boats to offshore adventures. First-timer or experienced angler, we've got you covered.
Booking a fishing charter doesn't have to be complicated. Whether you're planning your first ever fishing trip or looking for an offshore tuna adventure, this guide covers everything you need to know about charter fishing in New Jersey.
Ready to Book?
Search hundreds of fishing charters across the Jersey Shore. Compare prices, read reviews, and book online with free cancellation on most trips.
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Types of Fishing Charters
Party Boat (Head Boat)
$50-90 per person
20-80+ anglers
Fixed departure times
Best for: Beginners, budget-conscious, solo anglers, families
Includes:
- ✓ All tackle
- ✓ Bait
- ✓ Fish cleaning
- ✓ Fishing license
Pros:
- + Affordable
- + No group needed
- + Great for beginners
- + Meet other anglers
Consider:
- • Crowded
- • Fixed schedule
- • Less personal attention
- • Limited species targeting
Inshore Charter
$500-800 (half-day)
1-6 anglers (private)
Flexible
Best for: Families, targeting specific species, calm water fishing
Includes:
- ✓ All tackle
- ✓ Bait
- ✓ Fish cleaning
- ✓ Personal instruction
Pros:
- + Private experience
- + Target specific fish
- + Calm bay/inlet waters
- + Great for kids
Consider:
- • Higher cost
- • Need your own group
- • Limited to inshore species
Offshore Charter
$1,200-2,000 (full-day)
1-6 anglers (private)
Flexible
Best for: Serious anglers, trophy fish, adventure seekers
Includes:
- ✓ All tackle
- ✓ Bait
- ✓ Fish cleaning
- ✓ Ice for catch
Pros:
- + Access to big fish
- + Private boat
- + Expert guidance
- + Exciting experience
Consider:
- • Higher cost
- • Rough water possible
- • Longer days
- • Seasickness risk
Canyon/Overnight Trip
$2,500-3,500+
1-6 anglers (private)
Flexible (24+ hours)
Best for: Tuna, marlin, serious offshore fishing
Includes:
- ✓ All tackle
- ✓ Bait
- ✓ Meals (some boats)
- ✓ Fish processing
Pros:
- + Ultimate offshore experience
- + Big game fish
- + Extended fishing time
Consider:
- • Expensive
- • Long trip
- • Requires stamina
- • Weather dependent
💰 Charter Fishing Budget Breakdown
The charter price is just the start. Here's what a fishing trip really costs when you factor in everything - tips, food, and gear.
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Party Boat Ticket | $50-90 | Per person, 4-8 hour trips |
| Private Half-Day Charter | $500-800 | Whole boat, up to 6 people |
| Private Full-Day Charter | $1,000-1,500 | Whole boat, 8+ hours inshore |
| Offshore Full-Day Charter | $1,200-2,000 | Tuna, mahi, deep sea fishing |
| Canyon/Overnight Trip | $2,500-3,500+ | 24+ hours, big game fish |
| Tip (15-20%) | $10-500 | $10-20/person party boat, 15-20% for charters |
| Cooler for Catch | $0-40 | Bring your own or buy at dock |
| Food & Drinks | $15-40 | Pack your own - boats rarely sell food |
| Seasickness Meds | $8-15 | Dramamine or Bonine - take night before! |
| Sunscreen & Gear | $0-30 | Hat, sunglasses, layers you likely own |
| Parking at Marina | $0-10 | Usually free at most NJ marinas |
| Party Boat Total (1 person) | $85-175 | All-in for a solo party boat trip |
| Private Charter Total (4 people) | $150-250/person | Half-day split 4 ways with tip |
| Offshore Total (4 people) | $350-550/person | Full-day offshore split with tip |
Pro tip: Split a private charter with friends - it often works out cheaper per person than party boats for groups of 4+, with a much better experience.
How to Book: Step by Step
Choose Your Trip Type
Decide between a party boat (budget-friendly, per-person) or private charter (exclusive, customized). Consider what species you want to target and your group's experience level.
Pick Your Port
Belmar and Point Pleasant are great for most trips. Cape May is best for offshore/canyon fishing. Consider driving distance and what species are available from each port.
Book Online or Call
Use FishingBooker to compare charters, read reviews, and book online with secure payment. Or call the captain directly - contact info is on their listings. Book 2-4 weeks ahead for peak season weekends.
Prepare for Your Trip
Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, layers, and snacks. Take seasickness medication the night before if prone. Bring cash for tips. Arrive 30 minutes before departure.
Find Your Perfect Charter
Browse charters by port, read real reviews, and book with confidence. Most trips offer free cancellation.
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What to Expect on Your First Charter
Before You Board
- • Arrive 30 minutes early
- • Check in with the captain or mate
- • Stow your gear where directed
- • Listen to the safety briefing
- • Ask questions - crews are helpful!
During the Trip
- • The crew will set up your rod
- • They'll show you how to fish
- • Stay alert for strikes/fish on
- • Follow the mate's instructions
- • Enjoy the experience!
After the Trip
- • Crew will clean your fish (usually free)
- • Bring a cooler for your catch
- • Tip the crew in cash (15-20%)
- • Take photos with your catch!
- • Leave a review to help others
Pro Tips
- • Take Dramamine the NIGHT BEFORE
- • Stay hydrated - bring water
- • Apply sunscreen before boarding
- • Watch your step on the boat
- • Have fun - don't stress about catching
Common Booking Mistakes to Avoid
First-time charter bookers often make these costly errors. Learn from others' mistakes.
Booking the cheapest charter without reading reviews
Low-rated captains often have older boats, poor equipment, and bad attitudes. You get what you pay for.
✓ Sort by rating first, then price. A 4.9-star captain at $700 beats a 3.5-star at $500 every time.
Waiting until peak season weekend to book
Top captains are booked 3-4 weeks out for summer Saturdays. You'll get leftovers or nothing.
✓ Book 4+ weeks ahead for June-Sept weekends. Weekdays often have same-week availability.
Choosing a charter without specifying target species
You end up on an inshore fluke trip when you wanted offshore tuna, or vice versa.
✓ Tell the captain EXACTLY what you want to catch. Check that the boat is equipped for that species.
Not asking about the cancellation/weather policy
Some captains keep your deposit even if they cancel for weather. You're out $200+.
✓ Book through FishingBooker (free cancellation policy) or confirm the captain's policy in writing.
Forgetting to ask "What's NOT included?"
Surprise fees for fish cleaning, ice, fuel surcharges, or tackle rigging add $50-100.
✓ Ask upfront: "What's included and what's extra?" Most good charters include everything.
Tipping Your Charter Crew
Tipping is customary and appreciated. The crew works hard to put you on fish and ensure a great experience. Here's what's expected:
Private Charters
- • Standard: 15-20% of trip cost
- • $500 trip: $75-100 tip
- • $1,000 trip: $150-200 tip
- • $2,500 trip: $375-500 tip
- • Cash divided among captain and mate(s)
Party Boats
- • Standard: $10-20 per person
- • Tip the mate who helped you directly
- • More for exceptional service
- • Less expected, but always appreciated
Note: Tip more for a great catch, excellent service, or if the crew went above and beyond. Tip less only for truly poor service.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I book a fishing charter?
For weekends and holidays during peak season (June-September), book 2-4 weeks ahead. Weekday trips can often be booked a few days out. For the fall striper run and offshore tuna trips, book as early as possible - prime dates fill up fast.
What is the difference between a party boat and a charter?
Party boats (head boats) charge per person ($50-90) and you fish alongside other anglers on a fixed schedule. Private charters cost $500-3,500 for the whole boat, giving your group exclusive access with a customized trip targeting specific species.
How much should I tip the charter crew?
15-20% of the trip cost is customary, divided among the crew. For a $1,000 charter, tip $150-200. On party boats, $10-20 per person to the mate is standard. Cash is preferred. Tip more for exceptional service or a great catch.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Captains prioritize safety and will cancel if conditions are dangerous. Most charters offer a full refund or reschedule for weather cancellations. Book with a flexible date if possible. Light rain usually doesn't cancel trips - rough seas do.
Do I need to bring my own fishing equipment?
No! Charter boats and party boats provide all tackle, bait, and fishing licenses. Just bring yourself, appropriate clothing, food/drinks, and seasickness medication if needed. Some serious anglers bring their own rods, but it's not necessary.
Can beginners go on fishing charters?
Absolutely! Party boats are especially welcoming to beginners - the crew will set up your gear and teach you techniques. Many private charters also cater to beginners. Just let the captain know your experience level when booking.
Book Your Fishing Charter
Ready to get on the water? Search charters from Belmar, Point Pleasant, Cape May, and more. Free cancellation on most trips.
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