How booking works
One text. That's the whole system.
Fred is on the water most days, so he books by text, not by a calendar app. Here is exactly what happens from your first message to the last fish, including the money part.
Text or call (407) 948-5035
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Text Capt. Fred
Send your date, half or full day, and how many anglers to (407) 948-5035. WhatsApp or email work too. He usually answers within the hour, often from the boat.
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Confirm the plan
Fred tells you what is biting, suggests the best trip for your group and confirms the ramp and the start time.
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Hold it with a $150 deposit
Sent by Venmo. Cancel at least 48 hours ahead and it moves to a new date.
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Show up and fish
Meet at the ramp with sunscreen, drinks and a hat. Licenses, rods and tackle are on the boat; bait is not included. Balance in cash, check or Venmo at the end of the day.
The message
What to put in your text
Three things and Fred can answer right away:
- Your date, or a couple of options if you are flexible
- Half day or full day, or ask him which fits your group
- How many people, including kids and anyone who just wants to ride along
Useful extras: where you are staying (Daytona, New Smyrna, Orlando), whether anyone is a first-timer, and if there is a fish you really want to catch. Tarpon in July? Say so. Fred will tell you straight if the season lines up.
Example
Hi Capt. Fred, we're 3 adults staying in Daytona March 14 to 18. Looking for a half-day trip, two of us have never fished. Which morning works?
Not a texter, or booking from a computer? Send the same details through the booking form and Fred gets them by email. He still replies by text, so leave a mobile number.
Questions
Before you book
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancel at least 48 hours before the trip and your deposit carries over to a new date. Cancellations inside 48 hours or no-shows forfeit $100. If Capt. Fred cancels for weather, you reschedule or get your deposit back.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Capt. Fred watches the forecast and calls it the evening before or early morning. Rain alone rarely cancels a trip; wind and lightning do. Inshore water is protected, so many "bad weather" days still fish well in the lagoon.
What time do trips start?
Usually at first light, when the bite is best and the water is calm: around 6:30 to 7:30 am depending on the season. Later starts are possible, just ask.
How do I pay?
$150 deposit by Venmo to hold the date. The balance is due on the day of the trip: cash, check or Venmo. Gratuity of 15 to 20% is customary if you had a great day.
What should I bring?
Sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, a hat, non-marking shoes, drinks and snacks, a light rain jacket, and a cooler in the car for your fish. Leave the bananas at home. Every captain in Florida will tell you why.
Ready to fish? Text Capt. Fred.
Send your date, half or full day and how many anglers to (407) 948-5035. You will hear back fast, usually from the boat.
Text or call (407) 948-5035