Wide Open Charters and Guide Service

What to Expect

• Big boat (27ft) with shade and a toilet
• Child-friendly
  trips
• Trips for both beginners and experts

• Fishing license for all anglers
• All necessary fishing gear and bait
• Weather
  protection
• Ice box for fish and drinks
• Catch cleaning and filleting

• Nick K. "it was an unforgettable experience"

• Captain Christopher Castle
• Over 19 years of expert fishing charter experience
• Nick K. "They are true professionals, and I was overjoyed to meet them."
  Read all customer reviews

Customer Reviews

• NK

  Nick K.

  5/5
  We went nearshore of St. Augustine with my friends to learn more about trolling for kingfish, and it was an unforgettable experience. Captain Chris and Cathy were absolutely phenomenal, making every moment perfect. They are true professionals, and I was overjoyed to meet them. Captain Chris exceeded all my expectations, and I learned so much from him. These two are an invaluable asset to our St. Augustine Charter Community, and I can’t recommend them highly enough. Their warmth, expertise, and dedication made the trip truly special, and I look forward to meet with them in the ocean for more adventures. Read full review
  August 18, 2024
• AF

  Alan F.

  5/5
  Captain Chris and Kathy put us on King Mackerel almost as soon as we dropped the lines in. We limited out and the largest was 48" and weighed 50+ pounds. Will be repeating this trip very soon.
  June 9, 2023

Fish You'll Reel In

• 
  Cobia
  December is prime for Cobia—peak fun and catch rates
• 
  King Mackerel
• 
  Barracuda
• 
  Sailfish
• 
  Amberjack
• 
  Vermilion Snapper

Boat Features & Amenities

• Length 27 feet This boat is bigger than the average boat in St. Augustine, FL—enjoy extra space and comfort!
• 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 For fish & drinks
• Shade Prevents sunburn on boat trips; don’t forget sunscreen and sunglasses
• Toilet For longer journeys, enjoy increased comfort with an onboard toilet!
• Outriggers

Where do the trips start?

St. Augustine Shipyard, 117 Dockside Drive, St. Augustine, FL, United States Good location 9-minute drive from St. Augustine 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
• Bait
• Fishing licence For all anglers
• Fish cleaning & filleting At the end of the trip, the captain will clean and fillet the fish you caught
• Ice box For fish & drinks

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 (Before Your Trip): Secure your booking online with a 10% prepayment to guarantee your reservation. We accept all major credit cards, as well as Apple Pay and Google Pay, ensuring a seamless and secure payment process:

  • and others

• Step 2 (At the Trip): Pay the remaining balance directly to the captain on or before the day of your trip. Accepted payment methods include PayPal, Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Cash or Discover. Please note, a transaction fee of 2% applies to credit card payments. Cash transactions are not subject to this fee.

• Step 3 (After the Trip): While tipping the captain is not obligatory, it is greatly appreciated as a gesture of satisfaction with your experience. We suggest a gratuity of 10-20% for exceptional service.

Cancellation & Refund policy

• You can cancel or modify your booking free of charge up to 3 days before the trip date. Your prepayment will be fully refunded.
• If you cancel or modify your booking after this period, or if you fail to show up, your prepayment will not be refunded.
• 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.
• You can request a trip cancellation by simply replying to your reservation confirmation email.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What does the trip price include when booking with Wide Open Charters and 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 Wide Open Charters and Guide Service?

  No, prior fishing experience is not required to enjoy a trip with Wide Open Charters and 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 Christopher Castle 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 Wide Open Charters and Guide Service offer family-friendly trips?

  Absolutely! Wide Open Charters and 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 Wide Open Charters and Guide Service boat?

  Yes, the Wide Open Charters and Guide Service boat has a toilet onboard. Enjoy increased comfort for longer journeys!

• Where do trips with Wide Open Charters and Guide Service begin?

  All trips with Wide Open Charters and Guide Service commence at St. Augustine Shipyard, 117 Dockside Drive, St. Augustine, FL, United States. This location is particularly convenient for those staying in St. Augustine, with an approximate drive time of 9 minutes from the city center.

• Do I need a license to go fishing with Wide Open Charters and Guide Service?

  No, you do not need a personal fishing license. A fishing license for all anglers is included in the price of each trip.

• What is the passenger capacity of the Wide Open Charters and Guide Service boat?

  The Wide Open Charters and Guide Service boat can accommodate up to 4 people, in addition to the captain.

• What can I do with my catch?

  After your trip, the captain will clean and fillet your catch for free, allowing you to either take it home or enjoy it at a nearby restaurant with waterfront dining.