What to Wear and Bring on a South Florida Fishing Charter

So, you’ve booked a fishing charter in South Florida—nice choice! Whether you’re heading offshore for mahi-mahi or bottom fishing for snapper, a great day on the water starts with being prepared.

At Hillsboro Inlet Fishing Center, one of the most common questions we get is, “What should I wear or bring on the boat?” Good news—we’ve got you covered. Here’s everything you need to know to stay comfortable, safe, and ready to reel in your next big catch.

Dress for the Weather (and the Water)

South Florida sunshine is no joke, and being out on the water adds even more exposure. Your clothing should protect you from the sun, keep you cool, and be comfortable enough to move around in while fishing.

1. Lightweight, Breathable Clothing
Stick to performance fabrics that wick away sweat and dry quickly. Long-sleeve fishing shirts are a great choice because they protect you from the sun without making you overheat. Quick-dry shorts or pants are ideal too.

2. Closed-Toe, Non-Slip Shoes
Boat decks can get slippery, so you’ll want sturdy footwear with a good grip. Rubber-soled shoes or deck shoes are perfect. Flip-flops might be easy to slip on, but they don’t offer much support or protection.

3. Sun Protection Essentials
Sunglasses (polarized if possible) will cut glare and help you spot fish. A wide-brimmed hat or cap will shield your face, and don’t forget to apply (and reapply) sunscreen throughout the day. Your skin will thank you later.

What to Bring Onboard
Most of what you need to fish will be provided by your charter, including rods, reels, bait, and tackle. But there are a few personal items that will make your day more enjoyable.

1. The Basics:

• Sunscreen (reef-safe is best)
• Lip balm with SPF
• Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
• Snacks or lunch if you’re on a longer trip
• Motion sickness medication—just in case. Even seasoned boaters can get queasy on choppy days.

2. Nice-to-Haves:

• Light rain jacket or windbreaker—mornings can be breezy or damp.
• Camera or smartphone—you’ll want a pic when you land that big one.
• Small cooler—especially if you plan on keeping your catch.

Bonus: Our crew can clean your fish after the trip, so you’ll be all set to cook it up for dinner. Just make sure you’ve got something to transport it home in.

What You Don’t Need to Worry About
When you book with Hillsboro Inlet Fishing Center, we take care of all the fishing essentials. That means:

• No need to bring fishing gear
• No need to buy bait
• No need to get a fishing license—we’ve got that covered for you

Your job? Show up, relax, and get ready to fish.

A Few Extra Tips

• Arrive early so you have time to check in, meet the crew, and get settled before departure.
• Let us know if it’s your first time fishing or if there’s a certain species you’re hoping to catch.
• Most importantly—have fun. Whether the fish are biting nonstop or you’re just soaking up the views, a day on the water is always time well spent.

Book Your Fishing Trip Today
At Hillsboro Inlet Fishing Center, we’re here to make your fishing experience unforgettable. Our experienced captains, well-equipped boats, and friendly crew take the guesswork out of fishing so you can focus on having a great time. First-timer or seasoned pro—we’ve got something for everyone.