Head Boats Offer A Walk-On Fishing Party

Also referred to as drift boats, since the large craft often drift with the wind and current over the schools of fish, such group charters are much less expensive than booking aboard traditional “six pack” charter boats, which average $450 per day per person for up to six anglers. Head boats, also known as “walk on” charters because often you can walk on to join the party without a reservation, offer 6- to 8-hour trips for as little as $50-$75 per person. Some offer two trips per day and even night fishing when conditions are right, and can accommodate two dozen anglers or more depending on the size of the vessel.

“It’s as much about the comradery as the catching,” he explains. “We take over the entire boat for the day and can bring what we want to eat and drink aboard and it’s a hoot!”

If you are lucky, you might be joined on a drift boat trip by a veteran of method who isn’t shy about sharing his tips. Regulars often can be identified as the earliest to show up and board, often heading for a favorite spot on a transom corner, or up near the bow, depending on his experience on that particular boat, the fish being pursued and the party boat tactic he prefers.

Those are the guys it pays to watch – and learn from, perhaps even striking up a conversation. You’ll learn soon enough if the veteran of party boat fishing is willing to share some tips. Ditto the mate or mates aboard. Those fellows are walking up and down the deck to help you enjoy your trip, which means being successful at catching fish. Take their advice to heart. Good mates, as with good charter captains and fishing guides, are personable, and can get their anglers to enjoy the times between bites by sharing fishing tales and tips.

Speaking of the latter, 15 percent of the cost of the trip is the average rate for tipping your mate. More is welcome of course, and due if they have worked hard to get you over fish or keep you laughing between bites.