Captain Trey Croft
Rising Son Expeditions · Santa Rosa Beach, FL
Every year, I take out dozens of first-time charter clients — families on vacation, couples celebrating anniversaries, groups of friends who've always talked about going fishing but never quite got around to it. The questions they ask before the trip are almost always the same, and the nervousness they feel before boarding almost always turns into pure excitement within the first 20 minutes on the water.
If you've never been on an inshore fishing charter before, this guide is for you. Here's everything you need to know to show up prepared, comfortable, and ready to have the best possible day on Choctawhatchee Bay.
What to Bring
The most important thing to know is that your captain provides everything you need to fish — rods, reels, tackle, bait, and a fishing license for all passengers. You don't need to bring any fishing gear unless you have a specific rod or lure you prefer. What you do need to bring is everything that makes you comfortable on the water for several hours.
| Item | Notes |
|---|---|
| Sunscreen (SPF 50+) | Apply before you board — the sun on the water is intense even on cloudy days |
| Polarized sunglasses | Essential for seeing fish and protecting your eyes from glare and hooks |
| Hat or sun gaiter | A wide-brim hat or buff provides critical sun protection for your face and neck |
| Light, breathable clothing | Long sleeves are actually cooler than bare skin on the water — UPF shirts are ideal |
| Non-slip shoes | Closed-toe shoes with rubber soles; no flip-flops or heels |
| Water and snacks | Stay hydrated — bring more water than you think you'll need |
| Motion sickness medication | Take it the night before if you're prone to seasickness (see below) |
| Camera or phone | You'll want photos — waterproof case recommended |
How the Day Unfolds
Most inshore charters depart early — typically around 7:00 AM — to take advantage of the best fishing conditions. The first hour of daylight is often the most productive, particularly for speckled trout on topwater. Your captain will give you a meeting time and location the day before; plan to arrive 10–15 minutes early.
Once aboard, your captain will give a brief safety orientation covering life jackets, emergency procedures, and the basics of the day's plan. Then you'll head out to the first spot. On an inshore charter on Choctawhatchee Bay, you're typically fishing in calm, protected water — the bay is sheltered from Gulf swells, so the ride is smooth and the fishing is done at anchor or while drifting, not trolling.
Your captain will rig your rods, show you how to cast if needed, and coach you through the entire process. When a fish is hooked, they'll help you fight it and land it. They'll also handle the fish safely for photos and either release it or place it in the live well, depending on your preference and the regulations.
What "Inshore" Means
"Inshore" fishing means fishing in the bay, not the open Gulf. You'll be in protected, relatively shallow water (typically 2–10 feet deep) targeting species like redfish, speckled trout, flounder, and black drum. The water is calm, the boat is stable, and the experience is accessible for all ages and skill levels — including young children and non-swimmers.
What About Seasickness?
Good news: inshore fishing on Choctawhatchee Bay is about as gentle as fishing gets. The bay is protected from Gulf swells, and the water is typically calm — especially in the early morning. Seasickness is rare on inshore charters, particularly compared to offshore trips in the Gulf.
That said, if you know you're prone to motion sickness, take precautions. Dramamine or Bonine taken the night before (not the morning of) is the most effective approach. Ginger chews and Sea-Bands are also helpful. Avoid heavy meals immediately before the trip, stay hydrated, and focus on the horizon if you start to feel queasy. In my experience, most people who worry about seasickness on an inshore bay charter end up feeling completely fine.
Do I Need to Know How to Fish?
Absolutely not. That's what your captain is for. I've taken out complete beginners who've never held a fishing rod, and I've watched them catch their first fish and light up like it was Christmas morning. Your captain will show you everything — how to hold the rod, how to cast, how to set the hook, how to fight the fish. All you need to bring is enthusiasm.
Children as young as 4 or 5 can participate on inshore charters, and many of my most memorable trips have been family trips where a kid catches their first fish. If you're bringing young children, let your captain know in advance so they can plan the trip accordingly.
Tipping Your Captain
Tipping is customary in the charter fishing industry and is an important part of your captain's income. The standard tip is 15–20% of the charter cost for a good trip, and 20–25% for an exceptional one. If your captain went above and beyond — put you on fish, taught the kids, handled a difficult situation gracefully — a generous tip is always appreciated.
Cash is preferred, but most captains can also accept tips via Venmo or other payment apps. If you're unsure, just ask at the end of the trip.
What If the Fish Aren't Biting?
Fishing is fishing — there are no guarantees. Even the best captains on the best days can have slow periods. What a good captain does is put you in the best possible position to catch fish, move when a spot isn't producing, and adapt to conditions. On Choctawhatchee Bay, truly fishless days are rare, but it's important to go in with realistic expectations.
The experience of being on the water — the sunrise, the wildlife, the bay itself — is worth the trip even on a slow day. Most first-timers tell me that even when the fishing is slow, they had a great time. And when the fishing is good, they're already planning their next trip before they've even gotten back to the dock.
Ready for Your First Charter?
Book with Rising Son Expeditions and Captain Trey will take care of everything. All skill levels welcome — no experience necessary.
