Smiley’s Guide Service

What is included?

• Fishing gear (rods, reels & tackle)

What’s not included?

• Fishing license 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
• Tips

Boat

Location

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

Show on map

Frequently Asked Questions

• 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.

• Trip Details
• 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, an ice box, and fishing licenses for all anglers.

• What do I need to bring on a fishing trip with Smiley’s Guide Service?

  Although nothing in particular is required, we recommend that you bring snacks, drinks, sunglasses, and sunscreen to ensure your trip is even more enjoyable.

  • 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.
• Boat & Captain
• Who is the captain of Smiley’s Guide Service?
  • Captain William Smiley
  • Over 7 years of expert fishing charter experience
• 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.

• 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.

• Licensing & Regulations
• 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.

• Payment & Cancellation
• How to book and pay?

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

  • 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.

  • The remaining balance is paid directly to the captain on or before the day of your trip.

• How to cancel and refund?

  Prepayment non-refundable

  • 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.
• 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.