5 Tips for Setting Proper Expectations When Fishing Aboard Charters in NC

Having realistic expectations is important for just about anything.

Have you ever heard someone rave about some restaurant to the point your mouth watered? You couldn’t wait try the chili-cheese dog or their famed biscuits and gravy. When you arrive to satisfy the craving, you come away a bit disappointed since you were expecting the most awesome meal ever.

Having wild expectations can lead to much disappointment whether it’s something as simple as a meal at a restaurant or a day out on a fishing charter.

Being disappointed at something simple like a meal isn’t that big a deal – you didn’t spend a lot of money, so no big loss.

However, if you go out on half-day or full-day fishing charters, you will be pretty upset if the day ends in disappointment. After all, you’re spending a lot of money for the privilege of going out on the water on someone else’s boat. If you come away from the experience feeling like you didn’t get what you wanted, chances are you won’t be too eager to go again.

Fishing is one sport where expectations can easily be inflated – you go out expecting to hit a grand slam just to strike out.

You don’t want to be one of these guys:

Continue reading for some tips on realistically setting your expectations aboard NC fishing charters. Doing so will go a long way toward ensuring you have a good time and look back on the experience positively.

1.  Understand that it is impossible to determine how many fish you will catch 

Many anglers ask NC fishing charters how many fish they can expect to catch. Any honest           captain will say that it’s impossible to predict. Besides the casting and skill level of the angler, weather conditions, tides, moon phases and other factors all play into how many fish you will 
catch. If you’re using an experienced guide though, chances are pretty good that you will come  
away with something since they know all of the good spots and what to do in certain conditions.

2.   Understand that the captain will not be able to guarantee you catch fish

Without knowing your skill level, the captain will also not be able to “guarantee” you’ll catch any fish. Some NC fishing charters will offer a refund if you don’t catch anything, but they may count even the smallest Trout or Mullet as a catch. Also, some captains will only refund the charter for no fish if they’re doing the casting and rigging and then handing you the rod.

3.    Although a captain cannot guarantee you’ll catch fish, they can guarantee you will get on a clean, safe boat.

It’s understandable fishing charters do not guarantee you’ll catch anything. While they are good at their craft, there are too many factors outside their control. However, what’s within their control is the condition of their boat. Reputable fishing charters take pride in having a clean boat that has all of the right equipment for guaranteeing your safety. If the boat doesn’t look like it’s well taken care of, you may want to reconsider your plans. Not catching a good amount of fish is one thing – having to ride on a messy boat that’s risky for you and your family is something completely different.

4.    Understand there are things you will need to provide for yourself.

NC fishing charters will provide several essentials for your trip, including rods, reels, bait, life jackets and even your fishing license for the day. However, anglers are still responsible for several items like food, drinks, clothing, a rain jacket and medication for motion sickness. Don’t show up thinking you don’t need to bring anything. If you don’t have anything to eat or drink, you’re not going to have a good time, so come prepared.

5.    Expect a bit of rocking and rolling

While NC fishing charters will not go out in conditions that are too rough and dangerous, a few waves are to be expected. Completely glass-slick days are pretty rare, and besides, many anglers believe the fishing isn’t as good for whatever reason. Prepare yourself by getting a good night’s rest, eating a good breakfast the morning of your trip and possibly even take a Dramamine or some other motion sickness medication before you head out. If a captain has to turn back because of bad motion sickness, you will not receive a refund for the trip, so plan ahead.

Again, having proper expectations is a key component of having an enjoyable fishing with family and friends aboard charters in NC.

Capt. Mike Hoffman of Wilmington.Fish Fishing Charters (NC) works tirelessly to ensure his clients have a good and memorable time fishing the flats and offshore waters of coastal North Carolina. However, he does ask that you have realistic expectations – not all trips are going to result in a trophy Mahi Mahi or big pile of Redfish.

Click here for more information on what you can expect aboard NC fishing charters or to check rates and schedule an excursion.