Overnight Fishing Trips
Why do people book overnight fishing trips? Usually, it is because they want to take advantage of bag limits on certain species of fish. You see, when the clock strikes midnight, a new day begins, and with that new day a new limit for how many fish you can catch. For example, if you are only allowed to catch one marlin per day and can only have two for the year, you can book an overnight fishing trip, and take one marlin on day one and another on day two. Boom. You are done marlin fishing for the year.
An overnight fishing charter trip can last from 24-72 hours. These trips feature deep-sea fishing, trolling, and bottom fishing. They are ideal for the angler who wants to target fish that have single-day limits. If you fish overnight, you are allowed to catch the second limit of fish for the second day. That rule helps anglers experience trophy fish, and also target specific species of fish.
When Will You Be Going Overnight Deep Sea Fishing?
When you begin to plan your overnight deep sea fishing adventure, consider the types of fish you want to target. Plan your trip for when their presence is at its height. We call this “run times” and the run times allow you to be on the water when the fish you want to target is present. In addition, you want to consider:
- The time – You choose the length of the trip – 24 hours, 48 hours, or 72 hours.
- Weather – Consider the weather conditions – weather influences fish behaviors and when you fish before a storm, you may experience outstanding fishing. If you fish on a regular day, your captain will be able to help influence the types of fish you target.
- Specie Specific – Specific Fishing Targets – If you want to target a specific species of fish, your captain will be able to help you determine when the best time of year is to do just that.
- Seasonal Advantages – Think about seasonal changes – some fish are not available in winter either through conservation efforts from the federal or state wildlife agency, and some may migrate to warmer waters. Seasonality changes what you need to plan for. Chatting with a Charter Boat Captain is a good way to start that process. These are the people who live fishing day in and day out, and they will be able to help you choose the best times to fish, when to fish, and what you can bring. A good place to start is in the What’s Biting Section of The Finest Kind Charters.
These considerations help you dial in the best times to book an overnight deep sea fishing adventure. They allow you to pick the optimal time to target specific types of fish, especially those fish that have limits on how many you can catch. The advantage of overnight fishing is not so much fishing in the dark, which can be fun, but it allows you more time on the water to target and battle the big trophy fish you want.
Now, let’s look at what makes an overnight fishing charter successful, comfortable, and worth the time, money, and effort.
What To Pack for an Overnight Fishing Charter Trip?
Plan what you need to bring – the longer the trip, the more items you might need, such as:
- Clothing and rain gear – The weather can change suddenly so be prepared by dressing in layers and bring a few extra items that will help you deal with wind, sun, and rain. Pack so that you have clean clothes for each day of fishing. Because this is an overnight trip, a pair of slip-on skidproof shoes is essential, especially at night.
- Medications and sea-sickness meds – A good rule of thumb is to bring enough medications for a few extra days. Some people bring twice as much and store them in separate spots, in case something happens to one supply.
- Drinks, food, snacks, and freshwater – There is no place to get fresh water on an overnight fishing trip. A mix of food and snacks is a good way to keep hunger at bay. Freshwater is essential, and you can add in soft drinks. Most charters do not allow alcohol, so check with your captain before you shop for your trip. Be sure to ask the captain how much space you need. You may need to bring an ice chest with you for food.
- Bedding – You may also need a sleeping bag. Keeping yourself rested is a good way to be mentally alert to battle big fish. Be sure to ask about sleeping areas. In addition to a sleeping bag or blanket, you may need a sleeping mat or inflatable mattress, etc. Earplugs are a good idea and if you cannot sleep with the light on, an eye mask to help block out any light.
- Consider some hydrating lotion. The ocean air is salty, and it will begin to make you itch. Lotion can help.
- Sunscreen – Sunscreen is essential. The glare from the water will redirect the sun’s rays at you causing you to burn faster. SPF 50 or better is a good bet. If you have UPF clothing, bring it. UPF is the equivalent of SPF but made for fabrics.
- Polarized Sunglasses – Nothing beats the glare of the sun like polarized sunglasses, especially on the water.
Preparing For An Overnight Fishing Charter
You want to get a good night’s sleep the night before and most deep-sea charters leave early in the morning to allow for travel time to the deep sea fishing grounds. Expect to fish a lot during the voyage and more so when you hit the fishing grounds.
Bunks are available for sleeping and gear should be stowed in the cabin. The goal is always to keep the deck clear for safe passage and for all the incredible fishing you will do. If you are a light sleeper, bring earplugs to cut out the snoring, sounds, and ocean. If you are sensitive to light while you fish, bring an eye mask that will block out the light and allow you to rest. Sleeping is important as it recharges your body and sharpens your mind – you will need both when you battle big fish.
Be sure to take your seasickness medication as directed by your doctor (may be at least an hour before breakfast and again when you board the charter.
Depending on the weather and fishing conditions, night fishing can occur. Fish are generally very active at dusk and sometimes throughout the night if there is a good moon.
What to Expect on Boat Day
Be sure to arrive at the boat at least 30-minutes before departure. It is important to ask permission to come aboard both out of respect for the captain and safety reasons. The captain and crew should know you’ve boarded. They will give you safety instructions and tell you where to store your gear, bedding, and ice chest. Be sure you have a fishing license and all the appropriate stamps for specialized fish.
Once you have boarded and stored your gear, and all the other members of the charter are onboard and ready, the captain will go over the rules, and safety protocol and introduce you to the deck crew (mates). From there the fishing adventure begins.
The captain will get you where you need to go and manage the boat while you are out on the water. Your mates will become your best resource for fishing, rigging, and information. Make them your friend. Ask them all of your questions. Let them know your fishing experience and allow them to make you the best fisherman you can be.
Learn more about what’s in season, and available dates for overnight deep sea fishing by reaching out to the crew of The Finest Kind.