Here's some answers to some questions we often get regarding our fishing charters.  We hope these answers help.  We will, of course, answer any others you may ask by phone or by contacting us at  BentRodsRUs@cox.net 

1. What do I need to bring? 

Some people just hop on with nothing! For a dollar you can purchase a soda, water, snicker. Hand towels are good to bring, or you can rent one for a dollar. 

We supply the rod & reel, on board cold storage for the fish,  fish cleaning & fish license.

Most people bring a cooler with drinks ( no glass, please ) and sandwiches. Having a cooler provides a nice place to put your catch, once it has been cleaned and placed in a plastic bag. And consider sunblock ( wash this off your hands, fish hate sunblock !),sunglasses, hat, camera and warm clothing for cool weather.

2. Will I catch fish 

That depends on how you wiggle your worm! Seriously, most people catch. If you seem to be having trouble, whether you can’t feel the bites, or for what ever reason, ask one of our friendly mates for special help. 

3. Will I get seasick? 

I hope not, but we see it happen.  If you ever get motion sickness, or feel you may, be sure to come prepared. There are many options available.  Dramamine, Bonine, even a patch can be had from the pharmacist at Walmart!  Then there’s always ginger ale and soda crackers, an old favorite.

4. How far out does the boat go?

Trip lengths are from 4 to 8 hours, depending on demand, season, and of course where the fish are. In the summer, the most popular trip is 6 hrs., on which we travel about 18 miles from the dock. The travel time on this is 1 ½ hrs each way. 
 

5. What can we catch? 

Red snapper, vermillion snapper (mingo), trigger, grouper, king mackerel, flounder, porgies… There are over 30 kinds of edible reef fish in the Gulf. The winter of ’99 was a wonderful time to catch amberjack ! They put up a good fight and are super to slap on the grill. Most of our fish now have different seasons.

6. How many people does the boat hold?

 Sweet Jody is Coastguard approved for 62 passengers. We take up to 40 people fishing per trip. The boat is 57 ft., and we fish all the way around. 

7. What if it’s raining? 

Rain doesn’t bother the fish!  In the summer it can cool    things down - at other times rain gear is a good thing.  A lot of the time when it’s raining on shore, it’s not on the Gulf.

8. Can I bring my own gear?

Why sure!  As long as you know what you are doing. Please  consult the crew to make sure you gear is acceptable. No Spyder wire, Dacron or treble hooks. We furnish 80 lb test with a two circle hook rig and fish in depths from '60 to 200', depending on the length of the trip.

9. Do I need reservations? 

 They're recommended. There are some quiet days when  you can just hop on, though if you'd like to hold spots, you'll need to call the office with your name, phone number & credit card number. Please call 850 650 2500, 9am -5pm cst.

10. Can I bring my baby?

 Babies 5 & under are free and must be accompanied by a rider. Babies must weigh 40 pounds or more to come on board. Kids usually have a great time with lots to see on the trip. Please make sure you are with the child at all times! No running amok! Babies don't get a rod, they're just too small!