Captain Gary Over Delivered :)
My guys have been on several charters and we've found our family's forever Captain!! Crooked Hook did not disappoint. Not only did he exceed expectations prior to the trip, he surpassed the expectations during. We booked our trip last minute due to a last minute decision for a quick trip with my in-laws. Captain Gary responded promptly to my messages thru Fishing Booker and as promised (of his own accord), called the night before the trip to review the itinerary, answer any questions, and give valuable information (i.e. license information, cooler, snacks, motion sickness meds, etc.) We specifically wanted to fish for perch and he gave 110% to get our guys to their limit (even staying several hours over the original trip time to find spots to make that happen). His fishing guests ranged from my experienced angler 45 yo husband, experienced angler 18 yo son, intermediate angler 15 yo son, and never been on a charter 63 yo father-in-law. I was told that Captain Gary gave clear instructions the entire trip, was attentive to the needs of his guests (and didn't hover for those that didn't have needs), all while hitting the water quickly and giving a guided attraction commentary as they passed the islands and landmarks. Prior to taking off, he reviewed all of the safety features on the boat in the event that something unexpected/tragic might happen while they were on the water...all were prepared for how to contact the Coastguard and/or summon other help. The boat was large, well-maintained, and had a toilet. (That made them all happy in itself.) After extending the trip to be sure they caught all that the lake allowed that day, Captain Gary made arrangements with the local fish cleaning facility (Bays Edge Fish Cleaning Service) to pick up the fish at the dock. We picked up our catch the next afternoon (could have picked it up 2 hours later) at their facility, which was the cleanest that we've ever used!! (We've found our go-to for cleaning every trip now, too!) Overall, Captain Gary was kind, knowledgeable, attentive, and clearly loves his retirement job!
Mrs Smiley and family, Wow, that's one heck of a review. When you called and asked my opinion on an opportunity to go and get some perch, I said I wouldn't guarantee a limit but would put 110% effort to get as many perch as possible but no guarantee as it is fishing. Your crew showed up with smiles. And a positive were going to get them attitude, and we sure did get them. We took a nice limit,had a lot of laughs, and had a few pokes at some fish that we weren't targeting (sheepshead). Your crew made my day fun, exciting and successful. I pride my business on doing everything I can to give my guests a great experience as well as success. As a charter captain, I am very fortunate to meet many fantastic guests and have 98% return for future trips. When they leave I stay in touch and many have become long time friends. As you wrote I do contact my guests prior to our trip to inform them of weather,fishing, and success possibilities. I believe in being honest and upfront about it all. I give all guests the option if fishing is slow to non-existent to reschedule. I absolutely appreciate that you called and chose me for your last minute day on Lake Erie and hope to see you all in the near future. Have a great rest of your year. Thank you Captain Gary Zakrajsek
