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 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 withthe 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.