Smiley’s Guide Service

What to expect?

• 
  Captain with over 6 years of experience
• 
  All-inclusive trips
• 
  Trips for both beginners and experts
• 
  Child-friendly trips
• 
  22ft boat

Captain William Smiley

Boat Features & Amenities

• Length 22 feet This boat of average size will provide enough space for everyone
• Capacity 4 people (excluding captain)
• Rods, reels, tackle All necessary fishing gear is provided and included in the trip price
• Live bait well
• Fish finder
• Wireless trolling motor
• Ice box
• Shade No shade on the boat, use sunscreen to stay protected
• Toilet Heads up: No toilet on board!

Where do the trips start?

175 Lamar Beach Rd, Rockport, TX, United States Good location 17-minute drive from Rockport city center

Show on map

Pro Tip: To maximize your time on the water, we recommend arriving around 15 minutes before the trip begins.

What is included?

• Rods, reels, tackle All necessary fishing gear is provided and included in the trip price
• Live bait well
• Fishing licence This charter doesn't provide fishing licenses. Each person in your party needs to buy a license online at the TPWD website, or in person at their office, a tackle shop, or a grocery store statewide
• Ice box

What to bring?

• Sunglasses & sunscreen We recommend bringing sunglasses, sunscreen, and appropriate clothing for the weather (your captain will advise you the day before). And, of course, don't forget your phone to capture memorable moments with photos :)
• Snacks (if you want) The cooler has ample space for your favorite snacks, sodas, or alcoholic beverages should you choose to bring them. For trips of 6 hours or more, we recommend packing a lunch. A sandwich or any easy-to-eat option would be ideal for enjoying while fishing.

How to book & pay?

• Step 1: Choose the trip you like and request the captain's availability online. You will receive a confirmation within a couple of hours.

• Step 2: Secure your booking with a prepayment made directly to the captain. Typically, this is 10-30% of the total trip price. Captain accepts Visa, Mastercard or Cash. Please note, a transaction fee of 4% applies to credit card payments. Cash transactions are exempt from this fee.

• Step 3: Pay the remaining balance directly to the captain on or before the day of your trip.

Cancellation & Refund policy

• If you cancel your booking, your prepayment will not be refunded. In certain cases, the captain can offer a different fishing date, but we can't guarantee that.
• If the captain decides it is not safe to proceed with the trip (for instance, due to weather conditions or because the boat needs maintenance), the captain can cancel the trip at any time before it starts. In such cases, your prepayment will be fully refunded.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What does the trip price include when booking with Smiley’s Guide Service?

  Everything you need for a successful fishing trip is provided, including rods, reels, tackle, live bait, an ice box, and fishing licenses for all anglers. Your catch cleaning and filleting are also included in the trip price.

• Do I need to have prior fishing experience to go fishing with Smiley’s Guide Service?

  No, prior fishing experience is not required to enjoy a trip with Smiley’s Guide Service. Whether you're casting a line for the first time or you're an experienced angler, you're sure to have a memorable experience. Captain William Smiley is well-equipped to introduce beginners to the basics of fishing, covering common techniques and essential tips. For those with more experience, he will offer advanced tips and tricks, as well as insights into the distinctive fishing opportunities the region has to offer.

• Does Smiley’s Guide Service offer family-friendly trips?

  Absolutely! Smiley’s Guide Service prides itself on offering trips that are suitable for all ages, making it a fantastic experience for families. Children are especially welcome. The captain not only educates kids about different fish species and fishing techniques but also ensures they get hands-on experience. There's nothing like the thrill of catching fish, and we love providing that joy to young anglers.

• Do I need to leave a tip?

  While tipping is not mandatory, it is greatly appreciated as a gesture of satisfaction with the service provided. We suggest a gratuity of 10-20% of the charter cost, reflective of your experience.

• Is there a toilet facility on the Smiley’s Guide Service boat?

  No, the Smiley’s Guide Service boat does not have a toilet onboard.

• Where do trips with Smiley’s Guide Service begin?

  All trips with Smiley’s Guide Service commence at 175 Lamar Beach Rd, Rockport, TX, United States. This location is particularly convenient for those staying in Rockport, with an approximate drive time of 17 minutes from the city center.

• Do I need a license to go fishing with Smiley’s Guide Service?

  This charter doesn't provide fishing licenses. Each person in your party needs to buy a license online at the TPWD website, or in person at their office, a tackle shop, or a grocery store statewide.

• What is the passenger capacity of the Smiley’s Guide Service boat?

  The Smiley’s Guide Service boat can accommodate up to 4 people, in addition to the captain.