What to Expect
Quick answer
Show up with food, drinks, and sunscreen — Flats Hound handles the rest. Rods, bait, tackle, and licenses are included, the captain meets you at the dock nearest you, and your catch gets filleted dockside. Kids and first-timers welcome.
How a trip runs
1. Book your window. Pick a half day, 3/4 day, or full day and a morning or afternoon start. See rates.
2. Meet at your dock. Capt. Meddie brings the boat to the launch closest to you and gets your crew aboard.
3. Hunt some fish. Run the flats, mangrove edges, and passes. The captain reads the tide and moves until you're on fish.
4. Keep the good ones. In-season fish get filleted at the dock with cooking advice included. Photos encouraged — tag @flatshound.
What's included in a Flats Hound charter?
Everything you need to fish: rods, reels, bait, tackle, and fishing licenses for everyone on board. Your captain also cleans and fillets your catch at the end of the trip. Just bring food, drinks, sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a hat.
Where do we meet the boat?
Unlike most charters, Flats Hound brings the boat to you. Captain Meddie meets you at the public dock or ramp nearest to where you're staying — Bonita Springs, Estero Bay, Naples, Marco Island, or Fort Myers Beach. You'll confirm the exact dock when you book.
How many people can come?
Flats trips fish best with up to 4 guests. Have a bigger group? Call us — we can coordinate multiple boats or recommend the right offshore setup.
Do I need a fishing license?
No. Everyone fishing under a licensed charter captain is covered by the boat's licenses. That's included in your rate.
What if the weather turns bad?
Your captain watches the weather closer than anyone. If a trip has to be called for safety, you reschedule for the next open date or get your deposit back.
Is this good for kids and first-timers?
Absolutely — the Half Day trip is our most popular family option. Calm backwater, steady action, and a captain who genuinely enjoys teaching. Reviewers consistently mention how patient Meddie is with young anglers.
Can we keep what we catch?
Yes, anything in season and in the slot limits goes home with you. Your captain fillets it dockside and will tell you exactly how to cook it. Everything else is released healthy.
When is tarpon season?
The tarpon run peaks April through August, when warm water pushes the Silver King through the passes between Fort Myers and Boca Grande. Tarpon trips are specially priced and book out early — call ahead.
What should I wear?
Light, quick-dry clothing, non-marking shoes (or barefoot on the flats boat), a hat, and polarized sunglasses. Mornings can be cool on the run, so bring a light layer.
Do you take card or cash?
Both work. A deposit holds your date; the balance is due day-of. Details are confirmed when you book.