Gills & Thrills Charters 

4.9
(16 reviews)
 
State licensed
 Boat Ramp Drive 2455, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168, United States–

Gills & Thrills Charters 

New Smyrna Beach, FL, United States
–
23 ft
6
4.9
(16 reviews)

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Fish the waters of New Smyrna, and Daytona Beach, and do it your way!

I’m Capt. Austin Daniel, and I have been guiding on the waters of Daytona and New Smyrna for over 15 years now. Gillznthrillz is a father-and-son run business. Between myself, and my father (Hoss), we have over 60 years of combined experience fishing these waters, and love nothing more than putting clients on fish.

From kids, to seasoned fisherman you’re welcome aboard. We can accommodate bachelor trips, corporate outings, or an intimate sunset cruise.

Everything you need for a day on the water is included in the price of the charter, such as rods, reels, tackle, live bait, ice water, and licenses

Other drinks, snacks, and even lunch is available upon request!

We fish inshore for Reds, Trout, Flounder, Black Drum, Sheepshead, Spanish Mackerel, and many more species.

Nearshore you can expect to see your normal bottom suspects like Grouper, Black Seabass, Vermillion Snapper, Triggerfish, and assorted Porgies and Grunts. Pelagic species would include Cobia, King Mackerel, Amberjack, Mahi, African Pompano, and Bonito. Bring your coolers and let’s fill it up!

Nearshore trips are completely subject to weather. I want all parties to have as much fun as they can, and nobody’s having fun if they’re sea sick!

Shark trips are a fun way to get an introduction to what our waters have to offer! We can target sharks anywhere from three feet to thirteen feet. Just make sure to limber up and get ready for the pain!

Finally our Bull Red trips are one of my personal favorites! We target massive Red Drum and Snook in Ponce Inlet. These fish can range anywhere from 15-50 pounds, and reach ages of over 50 years. We love getting to see these giants, but take the utmost care in handling them. Catch, tag, photo, and release.
At Gillznthrillz conservation is our first priority. We would like to see this fishery continue to thrive for generations to come. However, we are happy to clean a few fish for dinner!

Fish the waters of New Smyrna, and Daytona Beach, and do it your way!

I’m Capt. Austin Daniel, and I have been guiding on the waters of Daytona and New Smyrna for over 15 years now. Gillznthrillz is a father-and-son run business. Between myself, and my father (Hoss), we have over 60 years of combined experience fishing these waters, and love nothing more than putting clients on fish.

From kids, to seasoned fisherman you’re welcome aboard. We can accommodate bachelor trips, corporate outings, or an intimate sunset cruise.

Everything you need for a day on the water is included in the price of the charter, such as rods, reels, tackle, live bait, ice water, and licenses

Other drinks, snacks, and even lunch is available upon request!

We fish inshore for Reds, Trout, Flounder, Black Drum, Sheepshead, Spanish Mackerel, and many more species.

Nearshore you can expect to see your normal bottom suspects like Grouper, Black Seabass, Vermillion Snapper, Triggerfish, and assorted Porgies and Grunts. Pelagic species would include Cobia, King Mackerel, Amberjack, Mahi, African Pompano, and Bonito. Bring your coolers and let’s fill it up!

Nearshore trips are completely subject to weather. I want all parties to have as much fun as they can, and nobody’s having fun if they’re sea sick!

Shark trips are a fun way to get an introduction to what our waters have to offer! We can target sharks anywhere from three feet to thirteen feet. Just make sure to limber up and get ready for the pain!

Finally our Bull Red trips are one of my personal favorites! We target massive Red Drum and Snook in Ponce Inlet. These fish can range anywhere from 15-50 pounds, and reach ages of over 50 years. We love getting to see these giants, but take the utmost care in handling them. Catch, tag, photo, and release.
At Gillznthrillz conservation is our first priority. We would like to see this fishery continue to thrive for generations to come. However, we are happy to clean a few fish for dinner!

Austin Daniel
Captain
Austin Daniel
13 years of experience
ID & credentials verified

Select date to see availability

Trip availability and prices

Trip date:
Group Size:
September 2026
SuMoTuWeThFrSa
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Group Size
2 adults • 0 children
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Creek Fishing Adventure!
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
2 hour trip multiple starting times (7:00 AM, 9:30 AM, 12:00 PM, 2:30 PM, 5:00 PM)
Snook
Snapper (Mangrove)
Black Drum
Redfish
+5
US $300
Shared tour: 2 people
Family Fishing Adventure
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
2 hour trip multiple starting times (7:00 AM, 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM)
Snook
Snapper (Mangrove)
Black Drum
Redfish
+4
US $300
Entire boat: up to 4 people
Half Day - Trophy Reds and Snook
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
4 hour trip multiple starting times (7:00 AM, 11:30 AM, 4:00 PM)
Snook
Redfish
Shark (Blacktip)
Shark (Bull)
US $450
Entire boat: 2 people
Half Day – Inshore
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
4 hour trip multiple starting times (7:00 AM, 11:30 AM, 4:00 PM)
Snook
Black Drum
Redfish
Flounder
+2
US $450
Entire boat: 2 people
Half Day – Sharks
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
4 hour trip multiple starting times (7:00 AM, 11:30 AM, 4:00 PM)
Shark (Hammerhead)
Shark (Blacktip)
Shark (Tiger)
Shark (Nurse)
+3
US $450
Entire boat: 2 people
3/4 Day - Trophy Reds and Snook
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
6 hour trip multiple starting times (7:00 AM, 1:30 PM)
Snook
Redfish
US $600
Entire boat: 2 people
3/4 Day – Inshore
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
6 hour trip multiple starting times (7:00 AM, 1:30 PM)
Snook
Black Drum
Redfish
Spanish Mackerel
+3
US $600
Entire boat: 2 people
3/4 Day – Sharks
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
6 hour trip multiple starting times (7:00 AM, 1:30 PM)
Shark (Hammerhead)
Shark (Blacktip)
Shark (Tiger)
Shark (Nurse)
+3
US $600
Entire boat: 2 people
3/4 Day – Nearshore
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
6 hour trip multiple starting times (7:00 AM, 2:00 PM)
Amberjack
Cobia
King Mackerel (Kingfish)
Snapper (Red)
+5
US $800
Entire boat: 2 people
Full Day – Inshore
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
8 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
Snook
Black Drum
Redfish
Flounder
+1
US $800
Entire boat: 2 people
Full Day – Shark
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
8 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
Shark (Hammerhead)
Shark (Blacktip)
Shark (Tiger)
Shark (Nurse)
+3
US $800
Entire boat: 2 people
Full Day – Trophy Reds and Snook
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
8 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
Snook
Redfish
US $800
Entire boat: 2 people
Full Day – Nearshore
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
8 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
Amberjack
Cobia
King Mackerel (Kingfish)
Snapper (Red)
+5
US $1,000
Entire boat: 2 people
There are 2 people looking at this charter.

Customer reviews

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Rating

4.9
16 reviews
4.8
Boat & equipment
5.0
Captain & crew
5.0
Fishing Experience

Anglers' gallery (13)

Reviews (16)

  • Eric Zierke
    Eric Zierke
    Member since 2026
    5.0

    Half Day Trip Trophy Redfish and Snook

    Half Day - Trophy Reds and Snook on August 12, 2026

    10/10 would recommend Captain Austin Daniel. He was able to get us on the fish right away. We easily hooked a half dozen redfish and snook. He made the trip fun and exciting the whole time. Even had some time to go father off the beach to catch a Bonita. Will definitely give him a call next time I’m in New Smyrna.

  • Syndel Ward
    Syndel Ward
    Member since 2026
    5.0

    Day of Shark Fishing with Cpt. Austin Daniel

    Full Day – Shark on August 8, 2026

    We had the privilege to have Cpt. Austin Daniel as our charter captain and it was the best experience my family and I had. He was completely knowledgeable and made us feel like we were one of his family members. If the opportunity ever comes up again, will definitely be going through him again. 10/10

  • Laura Bond
    Laura Bond
    us
    Ohio, US
    •
    Member since 2026
    5.0

    2 hour trip with Captain Austin

    Family Fishing Adventure on August 13, 2026

    Can't say enough about how great our fishing experience was. Captain Austin was excellent with the kids and went out of his way to make sure we all caught fish.

  • Laura Bond
    Laura Bond
    us
    Ohio, US
    •
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Best Trip Ever!!!

    Family Fishing Adventure - 11:00 AM on August 13, 2026 • 5 adults • 2 children

    Excellent Captain. Excellent with the kids. Made sure everyone caught fish. Extremely knowledgeable.

  • Jennifer Wren
    Jennifer Wren
    Repeat angler
    us
    Georgia, US
    •
    Member since 2021
    •
    2 trips
    4.7
    Verified

    Wonderful experience!

    Family Fishing Adventure - 1:00 PM on August 19, 2026 • 4 adults • 2 children

    My girls and I were complete novices and had a great time with Captain Austin. We even decided to book more time on his boat.

  • Timothy Rigsby
    Timothy Rigsby
    Repeat angler
    us
    Oklahoma, US
    •
    Member since 2022
    •
    2 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Good time

    Half Day - Trophy Reds and Snook on August 2, 2025 • 4 adults

    Got us on fish the first cast Either fish on or bait stolen within 1 minute For the first few hours

  • Connor Roberson
    Connor Roberson
    Member since 2026
    5.0

    Captain Austin brings the thrills.

    Half Day - Trophy Reds and Snook on August 12, 2026

    While I was disappointed that he had no gills, Captain Austin did indeed bring the thrills. He even managed to convince my 14 year old (who gave up fishing with dad some time ago) that catching snook on top water really isn’t that bad. Cpt Austin was kind, patient, and reassuring with my daughter the entire trip, and even helped her bring in the biggest snook she’s hooked. If you’re looking for a family friendly charter and an over all great day on the water, look no further. In a world where I find its increasingly difficult to get what you pay for, this experience sits firmly in the “buy with confidence” category. Take a chance, and even if he doesn’t really have gills, I think it’s worth it. - a salty fisherman

  • Caleb Grogan
    Caleb Grogan
    Member since 2026
    5.0

    Best fishing trip

    Half Day - Trophy Reds and Snook on August 9, 2026

    My family and I booked a half day trip and quickly realized that we wish we would have booked the full day. Captain Austin was great and very knowledgeable about the area and what fish we would be catching. He took his time showing us around the fishing gear and made it very enjoyable for us and our kids. They already want to book another trip! Gills and Thrills is the best charter experience we have had and would definitely recommend Captain Austin to anyone. We will definitely be back!

  • Anna Grumbine
    Anna Grumbine
    us
    California, US
    •
    Member since 2022
    5.0

    Full day of red fishing with Capt. Austin was a BLAST

    Half Day - Trophy Reds and Snook - 4:00 PM on August 14, 2026

    Captain Austin is definitely one of the best captains I ever had the pleasure of fishing with. Not only was he competent, knew the water well, got us right on top of the fish, but he was also an absolute BLAST to hang out with. To anyone looking to book a charter in the area, I would 10/10 recommend Capt. Austin and Gills & Thrills. You will absolutely thank me for the recommendation!

  • olivia albert
    olivia albert
    Repeat angler
    us
    Oklahoma, US
    •
    Member since 2026
    •
    2 trips
    5.0
    Verified
    New

    such an amazing trip!

    Family Fishing Adventure on September 19, 2026 • 2 adults

    AWESOME captin and a great time! I even caught a shark!! will come back again!!!

Rating

4.9
16 reviews
4.8
Boat & equipment
5.0
Captain & crew
5.0
Fishing Experience

Anglers' gallery (13)

All reviews (16)

Showing 1 – 5 of 16 reviews
Connor Roberson
Connor Roberson
Member since 2026
5.0
Captain Austin brings the thrills.
Half Day - Trophy Reds and Snook on August 12, 2026

While I was disappointed that he had no gills, Captain Austin did indeed bring the thrills. He even managed to convince my 14 year old (who gave up fishing with dad some time ago) that catching snook on top water really isn’t that bad. Cpt Austin was kind, patient, and reassuring with my daughter the entire trip, and even helped her bring in the biggest snook she’s hooked. If you’re looking for a family friendly charter and an over all great day on the water, look no further. In a world where I find its increasingly difficult to get what you pay for, this experience sits firmly in the “buy with confidence” category. Take a chance, and even if he doesn’t really have gills, I think it’s worth it. - a salty fisherman

Reported catch:
Redfish
Snook
Austin Daniel
Response from Captain

Connor! I really appreciate you taking the time to wrinte such a nice review. It was great having you on the boat, but the real treat was seeing Emma come around to fishing! I hope yall make many more memories catching fish back in South Carolina, and I hope to see yall back in New Smyrna soon!

Caleb Grogan
Caleb Grogan
Member since 2026
5.0
Best fishing trip
Half Day - Trophy Reds and Snook on August 9, 2026

My family and I booked a half day trip and quickly realized that we wish we would have booked the full day. Captain Austin was great and very knowledgeable about the area and what fish we would be catching. He took his time showing us around the fishing gear and made it very enjoyable for us and our kids. They already want to book another trip! Gills and Thrills is the best charter experience we have had and would definitely recommend Captain Austin to anyone. We will definitely be back!

Reported catch:
Redfish
Austin Daniel
Response from Captain

Caleb! Thank you so mich for the kind review brother! What you lack in hair you make up for in your angling ability!Yall come back anytime!

Anna Grumbine
Anna Grumbine
us
California, US
•
Member since 2022
5.0
Full day of red fishing with Capt. Austin was a BLAST
Half Day - Trophy Reds and Snook - 4:00 PM on August 14, 2026

Captain Austin is definitely one of the best captains I ever had the pleasure of fishing with. Not only was he competent, knew the water well, got us right on top of the fish, but he was also an absolute BLAST to hang out with. To anyone looking to book a charter in the area, I would 10/10 recommend Capt. Austin and Gills & Thrills. You will absolutely thank me for the recommendation!

Reported catch:
Redfish
Sheepshead
Spanish Mackerel
Red Snapper
Austin Daniel
Response from Captain

thanks Anna! yall come back anytime!

FishingBooker Member
FishingBooker Member
Member since 2026
5.0
Half Day Trip Trophy Redfish and Snook
Half Day - Trophy Reds and Snook on August 12, 2026

10/10 would recommend Captain Austin Daniel. He was able to get us on the fish right away. We easily hooked a half dozen redfish and snook. He made the trip fun and exciting the whole time. Even had some time to go father off the beach to catch a Bonita. Will definitely give him a call next time I’m in New Smyrna.

Reported catch:
Redfish
Snook
Austin Daniel
Response from Captain

Appreciate it Eric! Cant wait to have you and Hoss back out soon!

Syndel Ward
Syndel Ward
Member since 2026
5.0
Day of Shark Fishing with Cpt. Austin Daniel
Full Day – Shark on August 8, 2026

We had the privilege to have Cpt. Austin Daniel as our charter captain and it was the best experience my family and I had. He was completely knowledgeable and made us feel like we were one of his family members. If the opportunity ever comes up again, will definitely be going through him again. 10/10

Austin Daniel
Response from Captain

Looking forward to seeing yall again Syndel!

FAQs about Gills & Thrills Charters

Gills & Thrills Charters offers the following trips to customers:
  • US $150 per person - Creek Fishing Adventure! (2 hours)
  • US $150 per person - Creek Fishing Adventure! - 12:00 PM (2 hours)
  • US $150 per person - Creek Fishing Adventure! - 2:30 PM (2 hours)
  • US $150 per person - Creek Fishing Adventure! - 5:00 PM (2 hours)
  • US $150 per person - Creek Fishing Adventure! - 9:30 AM (2 hours)
  • US $300 per group, additional US $50 per person after 4 guests - Family Fishing Adventure (2 hours)
  • US $300 per group, additional US $50 per person after 4 guests - Family Fishing Adventure - 1:00 PM (2 hours)
  • US $300 per group, additional US $50 per person after 4 guests - Family Fishing Adventure - 11:00 AM (2 hours)
  • US $300 per group, additional US $50 per person after 4 guests - Family Fishing Adventure - 3:00 PM (2 hours)
  • US $300 per group, additional US $50 per person after 4 guests - Family Fishing Adventure - 5:00 PM (2 hours)
  • US $300 per group, additional US $50 per person after 4 guests - Family Fishing Adventure - 9:00 AM (2 hours)
  • US $450 per group, additional US $50 per person after 2 guests - Half Day - Trophy Reds and Snook (4 hours)
  • US $450 per group, additional US $50 per person after 2 guests - Half Day - Trophy Reds and Snook - 11:30 AM (4 hours)
  • US $450 per group, additional US $50 per person after 2 guests - Half Day - Trophy Reds and Snook - 4:00 PM (4 hours)
  • US $450 per group, additional US $50 per person after 2 guests - Half Day – Inshore (4 hours)
  • US $450 per group, additional US $50 per person after 2 guests - Half Day – Inshore - 11:30 AM (4 hours)
  • US $450 per group, additional US $50 per person after 2 guests - Half Day – Inshore - 4:00 PM (4 hours)
  • US $450 per group, additional US $50 per person after 2 guests - Half Day – Sharks (4 hours)
  • US $450 per group, additional US $50 per person after 2 guests - Half Day – Sharks - 11:30 AM (4 hours)
  • US $450 per group, additional US $50 per person after 2 guests - Half Day – Sharks - 4:00 PM (4 hours)
  • US $600 per group, additional US $50 per person after 2 guests - 3/4 Day - Trophy Reds and Snook (6 hours)
  • US $600 per group, additional US $50 per person after 2 guests - 3/4 Day - Trophy Reds and Snook - 1:30 PM (6 hours)
  • US $600 per group, additional US $50 per person after 2 guests - 3/4 Day – Inshore (6 hours)
  • US $600 per group, additional US $50 per person after 2 guests - 3/4 Day – Inshore - 1:30 PM (6 hours)
  • US $600 per group, additional US $50 per person after 2 guests - 3/4 Day – Sharks (6 hours)
  • US $600 per group, additional US $50 per person after 2 guests - 3/4 Day – Sharks - 1:30 PM (6 hours)
  • US $800 per group, additional US $100 per person after 2 guests - 3/4 Day – Nearshore (6 hours)
  • US $800 per group, additional US $100 per person after 2 guests - 3/4 Day – Nearshore - 2:00 PM (6 hours)
  • US $800 per group, additional US $50 per person after 2 guests - Full Day – Inshore (8 hours)
  • US $800 per group, additional US $50 per person after 2 guests - Full Day – Shark (8 hours)
  • US $800 per group, additional US $50 per person after 2 guests - Full Day – Trophy Reds and Snook (8 hours)
  • US $1,000 per group, additional US $100 per person after 2 guests - Full Day – Nearshore (8 hours)
When you book a trip with Gills & Thrills Charters, you can expect the following amenities onboard:
  • GPS
  • Fishfinder
  • Live bait well
  • Wireless trolling motor
Trips booked with Gills & Thrills Charters include:
  • Rods, reels & tackle
  • Live bait (Shrimp, Mullet, Croaker, Pinfish, and All assorted artificial techniques )
  • Lures
  • Catch cleaning & filleting (Yes fish cleaning is included )
  • Drinks (Water)
  • Fishing license (Fishing license are included)
  • Fly fishing equipment
Gills & Thrills Charters offers the following types of fishing:
  • Inshore fishing
  • Nearshore fishing (Weather permitting)
  • Reef fishing (Weather permitting)
  • Wreck fishing (Weather permitting)
  • Flats fishing
  • Backcountry fishing
Gills & Thrills Charters offers the following fishing techniques:
  • Light tackle
  • Heavy tackle
  • Bottom fishing
  • Trolling
  • Spinning
  • Jigging
  • Popping
  • Fly fishing
  • Flounder gigging
Top targeted fish species with Gills & Thrills Charters include:
  • Amberjack
  • Black Drum
  • Cobia
  • Flounder
  • King Mackerel (Kingfish)
  • Redfish
  • Seabass (Black)
  • Sheepshead
  • Snapper (Red)
  • Snook
  • Spanish Mackerel
  • Speckled Trout

Your captain

Austin Daniel
Austin Daniel

New Smyrna Beach, Florida, United States

1 Fishing Report
ID & license verified
16 Customer reviews
Typical response within 1 hour
Member since January 2017

Captain Austin loves, respects and lives for the ocean. He has a true passion for fishing, and will always do everything he can to put his clients on the best bite!

Our Team
Austin D.

Austin D.

Captain

Hoss D.

Hoss D.

Captain

Austin Daniel
Austin Daniel
Fully verified
1
reports
16
reviews
2017
member since
~2h
response
Captain Austin loves, respects and lives for the ocean. He has a true passion for fishing, and will always do everything he can to put his clients on the best bite!
The crew
Austin D.
Austin D.
Captain
Hoss D.
Hoss D.
Captain

The fish you can target

Amberjack
Amberjack
Black Drum
Black Drum
Cobia
Cobia
Flounder
Flounder
King Mackerel (Kingfish)
King Mackerel (Kingfish)
Redfish
Redfish
Black Seabass
Black Seabass
Sheepshead
Sheepshead
Red Snapper
Red Snapper
Snook
Snook
Spanish Mackerel
Spanish Mackerel
Speckled Trout
Speckled Trout
Amberjack
Amberjack
Black Drum
Black Drum
Cobia
Cobia
Flounder
Flounder
King Mackerel (Kingfish)
King Mackerel (Kingfish)

Real catches by this captain

  • Wonderful experience!
    Jennifer W.
    Jennifer W.
  • Best Trip Ever!!!
    Laura B.
    Laura B.
  • Good time
    Timothy R.
    Timothy R.

What is the boat like?

Boat image
Boat category
Center console boats
Capacity
6 persons
Boat length
23 ft
Year built
2018
Boat manufacturer
Blue Wave
Boat type
Center console
Engine model
Suzuki
Powered by
1 x 250HP
Max cruising speed
52 knots

What kind of fishing will you do?

Inshore Fishing
Nearshore Fishing
Reef Fishing
Wreck Fishing
Flats Fishing
Backcountry Fishing

Which fishing techniques you can try

Light Tackle
Heavy Tackle
Bottom Fishing
Trolling
Spinning
Jigging
Popping
Fly Fishing
Flounder Gigging

Which amenities are available onboard

GPS
Fishfinder
Live bait well
Wireless trolling motor
What's included in the trip price
Rods, reels & tackle
Live bait
Shrimp, Mullet, Croaker, Pinfish, and All assorted artificial techniques
Lures
Catch cleaning & filleting
Yes fish cleaning is included
Drinks
Water
Fishing license
Fishing license are included
Fly fishing equipment

How cancellations work

Free cancellation up to 3 days prior to trip

You can cancel or modify your booking up to 3 days before the trip date, free of charge. If you cancel or modify your booking later, or fail to show up, you'll forfeit 100% of what you've paid.

More details

What the listing policies are

Pickup not included

Transfer to/from departure site is not included in trip rates.

Child friendly
Life Jackets provided, Ages from 0-100 Welcome!
You keep catch
Catch and release allowed

How you can pay

Book with 30% deposit, pay rest to captain

When the captain confirms your trip, FishingBooker charges your credit card a 30% deposit to guarantee your reservation.

The remaining balance is to be paid directly to the charter operator on or prior to your trip date in one of the following payment methods:

 Cash

 Visa

 Mastercard

When paying the remaining balance with a credit card, an additional 5% charge will apply.

What’s biting in New Smyrna Beach right now

AmberjackAmberjack
Black DrumBlack Drum
CobiaCobia
FlounderFlounder
King Mackerel (Kingfish)King Mackerel (Kingfish)
RedfishRedfish
SheepsheadSheepshead
Snapper (Red)Snapper (Red)
SnookSnook
Speckled TroutSpeckled Trout

Compare similar fishing charters

Current
Gills & Thrills Charters
Gills & Thrills Charters
State licensed
4.9
(16)
23 ft
Group size 1 - 6
1 - 6
Fish 1
Fish 2
+10
4 hour trip • 6 persons
US $450