The night before a fishing charter, almost everyone asks the same thing: what do I need to bring? This site celebrates local fishing charters doing great work, and one of our first spotlights goes to Kelley Girl Charters in Panama City Beach, whose what to bring page is a great place to start.
The short answer: the boat brings the fishing gear, and you bring everything else you'd want for a long day in the sun. Here's a simple checklist.
What the charter usually provides
On most Panama City Beach charters, including Kelley Girl's private trips, the boat provides:
- Rods, reels and tackle
- A fishing license that covers everyone fishing on board
- A deckhand to help bait hooks, untangle lines and land fish
Some things vary from boat to boat, like live bait, ice and fish cleaning. At Kelley Girl, live bait costs extra, and fish cleaning is handled for a fee by the seafood market at Captain Anderson's Marina. Always ask your captain what's included when you book.
What to pack
- Sun protection. Sunscreen, a hat and polarized sunglasses. The sun reflects off the water, and there's little shade on deck.
- The right shoes. Soft-soled, closed-toe shoes that won't slip on a wet deck. Leave the black-soled shoes at home.
- Layers. Early mornings on the Gulf can be cool, even in summer. A light jacket or long-sleeve shirt helps.
- Food and drinks. Most charters don't provide meals. Pack snacks, lunch for longer trips and plenty of water. Kelley Girl allows coolers with beer and wine, but not liquor.
- A cooler with ice. For carrying your cleaned fish back to where you're staying.
- Seasickness medicine. Take it the night before and again in the morning, as the label directs.
- Cash for the tip. It's customary to tip the deckhand.
Tips for an easy morning
Arrive early. Captain Anderson's Marina is a busy place on summer mornings, and finding parking and your slip can take a few minutes. Kelley Girl docks at 5550 North Lagoon Drive in Panama City Beach.
Eat a light breakfast, get a good night's sleep and stay out of the cabin if you start to feel queasy. Fresh air and a view of the horizon help more than anything.
Choosing your trip length
If you're bringing kids or worried about seasickness, a 4-hour trip is a great way to start. For bigger fish farther offshore, look at the 6-hour or 8-hour trips. Our first charter guide covers more about picking the right trip, and Kelley Girl's trip information page lays out all of their options.