DESPERADO SPORTFISHING

FAQs

• Do you require a deposit?

  Yes, a 50% deposit of the cost of a full day charter is required to secure your trip. You may do so with a credit card and calling the Pirates Cove Booking Desk at 800.367.4728 or mailing a check to: Pirates Cove Charter Fishing, 2000 Sailfish Drive, Manteo, NC 27954. Please note Desperado and the date on subject line.

• Do I need a fishing license?

  All necessary fishing licenses are provided by our blanket charter boat license.

• What are your charter prices?

  Our full day offshore charter runs $2,800 cash/check and $2,800 plus 3% for credit cards. These prices are for the entire boat with up to six anglers. (Not per angler.) Charter fee includes bait, use of gear and tackle, and fishing license while aboard the boat. An additional fuel surcharge or fees may apply.

• Should we tip the mate?

  Yes, you should always tip the mate 20% on a fishing charter. The mate relies on tips to make a living because they work long hours and weekends and perform physically demanding work. He is the hardest-working person on any charter and is the key to making your fishing trip a success.

• What should we bring with us the date of the charter?

  All bait, gear and ice will be onboard when you arrive. You will need your own food, drinks, sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, camera, soft soled shoes, etc. Please keep the number of coolers down to one. We encourage you to bring your camera to preserve the day’s memories. If you bring along electronic devices such as phones or cameras, please be aware that a boat can be a harsh environment and we encourage you to keep them stored while not in use. We are not responsible for loss or damage to personal items. Please check the weather and dress in layers accordingly.

• Are you available for charter for any fishing tournaments?

  Yes, the Desperado is available for some of the major fishing tournaments. Contact us for availability and pricing.

• What if the weather is bad or we think the charter will be canceled?

  The captain has the sole authority to cancel a trip. You are required to show up for your scheduled charter unless you have heard differently from the captain. The weather offshore is often entirely different than the weather on land. If the captain feels it is necessary to cancel the trip for safety reasons, you will have the choice of your deposit being returned or rescheduling. If you choose to not show up for a reservation you are forfeiting your deposit.

• Can we keep our catch?

  Yes, all fish caught within the fishing regulations become the property of the charter. We do however release billfish and certain regulated species. Most fish that can be legally kept have size and/or number limits. The captain is responsible for watching that customers stay within regulations.

• Do you clean the fish?

  Pirates Cover Marina has a professional fish cleaning (filet and packaging) service for customers that do not wish to take the fish home to clean themselves.

• Is beer allowed on the boat?

  If you choose to bring beer on the boat, we ask that you please be responsible. For the safety of everyone onboard, the captain does reserve the right to terminate a charter and return to the dock if a passenger becomes disorderly. Also, DO NOT bring any sort of beverage in glass containers.

• What will we catch on our charter?

  See our fishing calendar below for a list of species and the months each species is most likely to be caught. If you would like us to specifically target a certain species, or use a specific fishing method, please discuss this with the captain when making your reservation.