FAQ’s & Other Services
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to bring my own fishing tackle?
No, all Best Bet boats are equipped with top-of-the line Shimano and Fin Nor gear. Usage is included in the price of your trip.
Do you clean (fillet) the fish?
Yes, after your trip is complete we will clean and bag all of your fish so that it’s ready to cook and enjoy!
Should I tip the mate and captain?
It is customary to tip the mate and captain 15%-20%. Remember that mates work for tips so your tips are greatly appreciated.
Do your boats have a restroom?
Yes, both of our reef and offshore boats have private toilets on-board.
How long do your fishing trips last?
We offer 1/2 Day (4-hours), 3/4 Day (6-hours) and Full Day (8-hour), as well as custom swordfishing and morning/evening tarpon-tide trips. Please review our trip types page for more details.
Should I pack a cooler?
All Best Bet boats have coolers onboard packed with ice, so you do not need to bring a personal cooler. Although if you have a long drive home you might want one to transport your fish fillets.
What is the best time of year to fish?
There’s no bad time to fish in the Florida Keys, however some months are better for targeting certain species.
What do I need to bring?
Bring whatever you wish to eat or drink. For 3/4 and full day trips we recommend that you pack lunch so you can refuel your energy for reeling in lots of big fish. In addition, we recommend you wear sunglasses (preferably polarized) and light breathable clothing. Also, bring sunscreen and a camera.
What types of fish will I catch?
Please check out our trip types section to see all the exciting species of Florida Keys fish that you can catch on your trip.
Do I need a fishing license?
No, you do not need a fishing license while fishing aboard on of the Best Bet boats. (Note, you will need a valid Florida saltwater license if fishing on your own boat, a friend’s boat or fishing from shore or bridge.)
How many people can fish on one boat?
By law you can bring up to six (6) people, including yourself. This includes children. If you have more than six people in your party we can arrange for multiple boats for your group.
What if I get seasick?
There are several types of fishing trips that you can enjoy when conditions are unfavorable including fishing the shallow reefs, Hawks Channel, the Seven-Mile bridge and Florida Bay. Please note that you can do a lot yourself to prevent seasickness. Most importantly, don’t drink excessive amounts of alcohol the night before your trip. Taking one seasick tablet before bed, and half a tablet the morning of your trip, has worked for many of our customers. (please follow all directions and check with your doctor before taking any medications)
More questions?
Contact UsOther Services
This section is to link you to other great companies here in the Florida Keys that are friends of ours.
Places To Eat (Cook Your Catch!)
Key Colony Inn
Key Colony Inn is a great place to bring your catch. After a day of fishing drive down the road from our boats and drop off your catch and tell them when you will be back for dinner. Go home take a shower and relax and come back to a delicious meal! Key colony Inn also does great lunch specials that the locals always come in for, getting large plates of homestyle meals for around 10 bucks!
Operating Hours: Everyday 11AM to 9PM
Sparky’s Landing
We love Sparky’s Landing! The combination of hot weather, cold drinks along with wings and shrimp is fabulous. With a happy hour from 4 – 6pm everyday and live music 4 days a week you are sure to have a great experience!
Web: https://www.sparkyslanding.com/
Operating Hours: Everyday 11am to 10pm
Transportation
Florida Keys Express Shuttle
Let our friends at Florida Keys Shuttle service drive you around the keys in their clean, air conditioned, Wifi Enabled Mercedes Benz Vans. Take the stress of getting around in a new place out of your vacation!
Web: http://www.floridakeysexpressshuttle.com/
Operating Hours: 24/7
Things To Do
Aquarium Encounters Florida Keys
A great place to go especially on a rare rainy day in the Florida Keys! You can see all types of fish from around the keys and even swim with them and feed them! Aquarium Encounters also has a shark feeding tank where you can feed sharks through a small hole in the tank!
Web: https://floridakeysaquariumencounters.com/
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 9am to 5pm
Real Estate
Coldwell Banker – SCHMITT REAL ESTATE CO.
Looking for some property in the Florida Keys? With more than 2 decades as a real estate pro in the Florida Keys Josh Mothner can show you a wide variety of properties in paradise!
Web: http://www.soldinthekeys.com/
Tel: (305) 942-9519