Let me start off by saying we had fun. My partner and I had never used a charter before and were both excited.
Directions to the marina were easy and once I located the sign, which took a moment, we figured out parking. Our captain arrived about 7:50. But overall, he got things moving we were on the water by about 8:10. We went to pick up our baitfish and then waited there for about 10 min so another company could come pick some up from us because they didnโt have any. After that we were underway and it took another 30 min or so to get to our first location.
Our captain got us set up and we began to fish. The captain was nice, but I wouldnโt go as far as to say friendly or warm. We were never once asked about our experience or interests ore even what brought us to the keys. He explained how the rod/reel set up worked and overall, unless we asked him a question or initiated small talk conversation was limited. (side note, the other party on board were very challenging, and possibly under the influence of something, which may have contributed to lack of small talk).
The bite was ok and after a while we moved to another location. Same thing, slow bite. We started to head back and stopped to fish for some yellow jack, while waiting for a bit of weather to pass. No bites, and we got drenched! The rain although cold, was probably the best part of the day. It provided some laughs while I tried to avoid the stinging water by sitting in the bow of the boat.
Overall, I opted for 3 stars because this was the minimum service I would expect. It was average. We had a good time, but we didnโt really get much interaction with the captain. As a person who has worked as a whitewater guide for 7+ years, I know the interaction between and with the clients can make or break a day. While the bite canโt be controlled, being personable and interested in your clients can. I also understand that managing two different parties can be difficult.
Let me start off by saying we had fun. My partner and I had never used a charter before and were both excited.
Directions...