I booked this charter as a last-minute surprise for my husband’s 40th birthday and brought along our 7-year-old twin boys. From the booking process to the trip itself, everything was exceptional.

The charter company was incredibly responsive and easy to work with, especially considering how last-minute this booking was. We had a two-hour drive to get there, and they were quick to answer questions and confirm details, which gave me peace of mind before making the trip.

Captain Ryan was absolutely fantastic. What stood out most was how much he seemed to tailor the experience to our family. He was patient with the kids, incredibly knowledgeable, and took the time to teach them about fishing while making sure everyone was having fun.

The fishing was unbelievable—we caught so many fish that I had to keep reminding the boys this is not what a typical fishing trip looks like! Being able to bring a few fish home made the experience even more memorable.

One thing I especially appreciated was that Captain Ryan cleaned and filleted the fish right in front of us and took the time to explain what he was doing. For our boys, that hands-on experience was just as exciting as catching the fish. They got to see the entire process from start to finish, which turned the trip into both an adventure and a learning experience.

I had also brought a few decorations onboard for my husband’s birthday, and Captain Ryan was completely supportive of helping me make the day feel special.

This was so much more than a fishing trip—it was a memorable family experience and the perfect way to celebrate a milestone birthday. We left with fish, great memories, and two boys who are already asking when they can go again. Highly recommend both the charter company and Captain Ryan!

The VistaLady’s deck was spotless when we arrived, and kept clean throughout. It also had a very comfortable cabin to grab a quick snack during the travel. First Mate Scott was brilliant and awesome with my 8 1/2 yr son, showing him the basics. My son was super comfortable by the end, starting to identify, “fish on”, and start reeling by himself. For us adults, it was a great morning of catching up with family news alongside no shortage of river rockfish. Captain Ryan provided interesting insight about the waterways. Alas, our luck was not in the deeper waters - may luck be yours.

Captain Popp, Mate Cameron, and the boat were ready for outing. The boat, the rods and tackle were all in good repair, as was the live bait.

Limit was caught in the first hour, the rest of the tour was spent fishing for - and occasionally catching - perch and catfish.

Cameron did a great job cleaning the catch.

Both Captain Popp and Mate Cameron were helpful and friendly.

The gratuity was well deserved.

My family of 5, including me, had a fantastic, lifelong, memorable, fishing trip experience with Captain Ryan & 1st. Mate Kramer!!

All my family commented what a wonderful, fun time, they had on the fishing cruise, and they wanted to do a re-do, soon!!

This fishing trip was my 6th. deep sea charter boat fishing trip, in many oceanic locations, and timeframe lengths; but, none of my other family members had ever been on a charter boat fishing trip before. This cruise was, “by far”, the best charter boat fishing trip I have ever been on!!!

I was expecting to do a lot of fishing support for my family because of their in-experience. I did not have to lift a finger of support to them, or myself, for anything! Capt. Ryan & 1st. Mate Kramer, took care of everything, even “my fishing rod”!! Because of that I could rest & relax and enjoy the fishing myself!!
That was truly refreshing!!

We simply had a ball with the Vista Lady crew & had an awesome time on the water. My family, myself & any others we talk to will want to charter with the Lady Vista crew again, soon!!!

God Bless
Rev. Paull M.

A beautifully clean boat, a helpful & friendly Captain and mate, and a nice fat catch all made for perfect day fishing on the Chesapeake for my group of six (four adults, two teenagers).  Every single one of our party managed to catch both a rockfish and catfish each!  We might have even caught a few more catfish had we not decided to call it quits with what we had.

Both Captain and mate for the day were there to teach us where to look and how to fish for both rockfish and catfish, as well as clean and filet them all for us on the ride back to the docks- and our catch easily fed a group of 8 that night with plenty for leftovers!

Can’t recommend highly enough!  Will be booking again next opportunity.