Questions about booking
Everything you need to know before booking a fishing, shelling, dolphin or sunset trip on Marco Island.
Updated September 2026
How does booking work?
Pick a trip, then choose a date, start time and how many people are coming. You'll only see times the boat is actually free. Pay online, and the captain confirms your trip, usually within a few hours. You'll get an email as soon as it's confirmed.
When is my card charged?
When you book, your card is held for the full amount but not charged. It's charged only when the captain confirms. If they can't take you, the hold is released and you pay nothing.
How quickly will the captain confirm?
Captains answer within 4 hours. If you book late in the evening, they answer by 9 AM the next morning. You'll always hear back at least an hour before your trip.
How far ahead do I need to book?
Trips can be booked up to 12 hours before they start.
What if the captain can't take my trip?
You're not charged, and we'll show you similar trips that are open at the same time so you can request one of those instead.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refund if you cancel 72+ hours before your trip, 50% from 72 to 24 hours, no refund within 24 hours. If your captain cancels for weather, you get a full refund or can reschedule.
What happens if the weather is bad?
If conditions aren't safe, your captain will let you know and offer to move your trip to another day. If a new day doesn't work for you, you get a full refund, including any service fee.
How are prices set?
Each captain sets their own prices. Every trip shows the price up front, including how many guests it covers and the cost of any extra guests. Some captains add a small service fee to cover card processing. If so, it's shown before you pay.
What should I bring?
Sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, water and snacks, and wear shoes that won't mark the deck. Your captain may add to that list; you'll get their details in your confirmation and reminder emails.
Where do trips leave from?
Each trip page shows where it departs. The exact meeting spot is in your confirmation email.
Can I get photos from my trip?
Yes. After your trip, your captain can share their photos on your booking page, and you'll get a link to share yours too.
Can I keep the fish I catch?
On most fishing trips, yes, within Florida's seasons and size limits. It varies by boat, so check the trip details or ask your captain.
When is the best time to fish Marco Island?
Any time of year. Marco Island has good fishing year-round; what changes with the seasons is which fish are biting. Our month-by-month fishing calendar shows when each fish is at its best.
Are kids welcome?
Yes, there's no minimum age. Younger children may be required to wear a life jacket on board. Let your captain know their ages in your booking note.
Can I bring food and drinks?
It depends on the captain. Check the trip details, or ask in your booking note.
Is there a bathroom on the boat?
It depends on the boat. Check the trip details, or ask in your booking note.
Are trips private?
Most trips are private charters for just your group. Check the trip description to be sure.
Should I tip the captain?
Tips aren't required, but 18–20% is common for a great day on the water.
How do I get in touch?
Call (239) 276-8688 or email bookings@marcoislandfishing.com. Once your trip is confirmed, your booking page has everything you need for the day.