If you’re going charter fishing in the Keys there are several important rules to be aware of. First is that you want to book the charter that matches your skill level as a fisherman. If you’ve never been on a flats charter before, the right guide will assess your skills, and then do their best to teach you the tools you need to give you a great day. The basic rule of thumb is that if you’re at all unsure about what your skill level is as a fisherman, then it’s pretty clear that you need instruction. No shame in that, people— everyone’s got to start somewhere.
For the inexperienced to novice fishermen, booking the right guide is fundamental to booking the right charter. Some guides just put themselves out more, and teaching you some new skills is part of the deal. It’s all about finding the right guide for you. And the right guide in the Keys for many anglers is Captain Brian Helms. He has the credentials and experience you want out there on the water with you. Whether you are just beginning, or a seasoned fisherman, Capt. Brian will tailor make the day for you to give you a terrific experience. But you better book soon, because a wealth of success breeds just as much popularity.
Another very crucial step in booking your charter is to plan well in advance, several months to a year if possible. With certain fish being at peak numbers during different times of the year, it isn’t at all uncommon for a charter outfit to be running around crazy with charters twelve months out of the year. So if you get the idea in your head that you want to go charter fishing next month in the Florida Keys, call ASAP!
Once you’ve determined your skill level, settled on a guide, and scheduled your trip, the last important step is to prepare in advance. That means the right kind of clothes—loose fitting and light colored—and equipment. If you’ve booked with Capt. Brian, he will supply all of the gear you need, but in addition to rods and reels, you’ll want to be sure to bring a good set of sunglasses, preferably polarized, and plenty of sunscreen.
Follow these easy steps, and your first time out on a fishing charter should be a roaring success.