FAQS
What charters do you offer + for how many?
All rates listed are per charter and can accommodate up to 6 guests. This maximum capacity limitation for paying passengers is non-negotiable, mandated and enforced by the U.S. Coast Guard.
Target species are dependent on season and what’s biting best at the time of your trip. Charters focus exclusively on offshore fishing while in Oregon Inlet (March – May), with a variety of trip options offered out of Virginia Beach (June – October):
Inshore (4 hours): $650
Offshore (12 hours): $3,000
How much do I tip + will you filet my fish?
Our crew works hard to ensure each charter has a safe, successful and enjoyable experience on the water and an additional 18-20% standard tip – or more! – is customary and strongly encouraged.
While some species are catch and release only, you’re welcome to keep what you reel in within state and federal regulations and retention limits. If you’re interested in having your fish filleted, our captain will confirm an additional cost based on the charter’s catch to be paid directly to the crew along with their tip.
What do you provide + what do I need to bring?
Fishing rods, reels, tackle, bait, ice, licenses, safety equipment and more are provided. Smoke Show Sportfishing provides water and basic amenities, but it’s recommended for guests to bring their own special refreshments, food, non-spray sunscreen and something to calm those queasy stomachs that tend to get sea sick.
Keeping your comfort in mind, Smoke Show offers an enclosed air-conditioned/heated cabin and restroom facilities available for use while on the water. We recommend you store all cold food items in the kitchen fridge, while any beverages can be kept in the large cooler outside for easy access while fishing. Oh, and absolutely NO BANANAS! Or stickers of bananas, fake bananas, really just nothing that could be mistaken for those bad luck bananas on the boat.
Where do I park for my charter?
Docked at Pirates Cove Marina (2000 Sailfish Drive in Manteo, NC) from March – May, we recommend charter guests park in the dirt lot just past the pavilion as indicated on this map or paved lot next to the restaurant – mandatory if parking is restricted due to a wedding or event.
Docked at Rudee Inlet Station Marina (227 Mediterranean Ave in Virginia Beach, VA) from June – September, parking can get crowded and we recommend all morning charters try to park as indicated on this map and afternoon charters either valet at the stand next to the restaurant or find nearby street parking.
How do I book my charter + how do we pay?
A non-refundable 10% deposit is required to confirm your booking and reserve the trip date. This amount will be applied towards the total charter cost, with the remaining balance due in advance or on the day of your charter.
We accept payments via cash, check, credit/debit card, PayPal or Venmo. All final payments made with credit or debit card will be subject to an additional 10% processing fee applied.
Once you’ve booked your charter, you’ll receive a confirmation email and detailed invoice with all the info you’ll need to know. An additional email will be sent the week of the charter that includes final details in preparation for your fishing trip.
What is your cancellation policy?
If you need to cancel for any reason, you must notify us with an official cancellation notice at least 7 days before your scheduled trip to receive your deposit back or to place your deposit on a different date. An official cancellation notice can be made through voice mail, e-mail or text message, however, you must receive a response back from Smoke Show Sportfishing to confirm it has been received. If you do not provide an official cancellation notice in advance as required, your deposit will not be refunded. If you simply do not show up on the day of your scheduled trip, you will be charged the full price of the trip.
If your scheduled trip is canceled at the Captain’s discretion due to weather conditions or other unforeseen circumstances, we will refund your deposit or it can be applied towards a rescheduled trip on a future date (up to one year).
Ready to schedule your charter?
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