Quick Details
Individual
Public fishing charter
$ 92.50
Private Charter
Up to 25 people
$ 1,800
Private Charter (Weekends)
Up to 25 people
$2,000
Party Boat Fishing Charters: Catch Big, Laugh Loud, and Cruise in Comfort Aboard the Thunder
Climb aboard the 42-foot Thunder for a full day of fishing, fun, and Gulf Coast adventure. Custom-built for Hernando Beach’s shallow waters and powered by twin diesel engines, Thunder takes you up to 40 miles offshore in comfort and style.
With all gear, bait, tackle, and licenses included, all you need to bring is your excitement. Whether you’re reeling in your first catch or chasing the big one, our friendly crew makes it a day to remember.
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On Thunder we supply you with a 4/0 conventional rod and reel with 50lb test monofilament line, a 3oz egg weight and a 7/0 circle hook on a 12-18” leader. This may vary some depending on conditions and targeted species of fish. If you haven’t used a conventional reel before please ask the mate for instructions to avoid problems while fishing.
When we arrive at a fishing spot, please do not drop your line until the Captain has shut down the engines. He needs to anchor the boat and position it over the fish. When the engines start up again it is time to reel in so we can move to another spot.
We typically provide two different baits: cut threadfin herring and squid. If you use the head portion of the herring, hook it thru the eye sockets or thru the top of the head. Using the tail portion, you should remove the tail then hook thru the back and under the spine. For squid, hook it once thru the thickest part.
When you drop your bait, let it go all the way to the bottom, and take up some of the slack. You want your bait on the bottom to catch the most fish. Fish will tug at your bait and you will feel a tapping in the line. Resist the urge to “set the hook”. Circle hooks set themselves. When you have a fish, just start reeling. If you need help, call for the mate to assist you. If you hook the bottom, and can’t get it loose, call for the mate. The mate will also put new weights and hooks on if you get broke off.
At the end of the day, your fish will be filleted and put in a ziplock bag for you to take home and enjoy. If you need some ice, just ask: we will be happy to give you enough to get your catch home safely.
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Please arrive 30 minutes before the charter time.
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Please bring any food or drinks you want, except NO hard liquor. Plenty of water, sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats. Wear non marking, nonskid, water-resistant shoes. Hand rags are highly recommended (and can be tied to the rail or the rod you picked out to hold your spot during boarding and the ride out.
NO drugs or firearms allowed by federal regulations.
There is a convenience store two doors down from the bait shop if you wish to get coffee, ice, or snacks before boarding. We provide squid and threadfin herring for bait. If you wish, you can purchase live shrimp, and pinfish at the bait shop. Bring a bucket and bubbler to keep your bait alive. The bait shop rents 5gal buckets with lid and bubbler for the day if you don’t have one.
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Individual Cancellations:
We understand that plans can change, and we strive to be as flexible as possible. If you cancel 3 or more days in advance, there is no charge and you will receive a full refund. Cancellations made within 3 days of the trip will incur a 50% charge.Private Charter Cancellations:
We understand that plans can change, and we strive to be as flexible as possible. If you cancel 14 days or more in advance, there is no charge. Cancellations made 8 to 13 days before the scheduled service will incur a 50% charge. If you cancel 7 days or less in advance, the full fee will be charged.Thank you for your understanding and support. Please call us at 352-597-3900 to discuss cancellations.