Charter boat captains and guides are professionals.

They know the local waters, keep up with

new fishing techniques, and know what fish are

available and where to catch them. Many professional

skippers and top local anglers have gotten

their starts by working as mates on charter boats

during the summer months.

A good way to learn the basic angling techniques

for catching certain species of fish is to

charter a boat or hire a guide to take you fishing.

For example, if you want to learn how to catch

marlin, tuna, and dolphin, charter a boat for an

offshore fishing trip out of Rudee Inlet in Virginia

Beach or Cape Charles on the Eastern Shore.

Pay attention to how the mate rigs the baits, prepares

the terminal tackle and how the baits are

fished. Most mates and charter boat skippers do

not mind answering your questions or showing

you what they have learned over the years.

The best way to approach the day is to be

observant.

Many top saltwater anglers charter boats on a

regular basis. Sometimes they want to pursue a

type of fishing their boats and equipment are not

prepared to handle or they just want to enjoy a

day of fishing, without the hassles of preparing

baits and tackle, navigating a boat, and cleaning

up after the trip is over. Most charter boats welcome

experienced anglers and are willing

to allow them a greater role in the fishing experience.

Of course, this should be discussed with

the captain prior to leaving the dock.

More than 200 charter boats and head-boats

operate in Virginia waters, and they

pursue every type of fish that visits local

waters.