For reservations and information please call the dock at
(850)650-2500            
(850)654-0088
home fax (850)678-8037
email bentrodsrus@cox.net

Click here for Calendar

Do I need reservations? 

They're recommended. There are some days when you can just hop on, though if you'd like to hold spots, you'll need to call the office with your name, phone number & credit card number. Please call 850 650 2500, 9am -5pm CST.

Will we see dolphins?

Usually! They love to ride the bow wave and sometimes will take the fish off your hook for you, though they tend to keep them!

Can I bring my own gear?

Yes.  Please consult the crew to make sure your gear is adequate as long as it complies with regulations. No Spyder wire, Dacron. The only acceptable hook is a circle hook. We furnish 80 lb test mono with a two-hook rig and fish in depths from 60’- 200', depending on the length of the trip.

What do I need to bring? 

Some people just hop on with nothing! For a dollar you can purchase a soda, water, snicker or packet of crackers. Hand towels are good to bring, or you can rent one for a dollar. 
We supply the rod & reel, on board cold storage for the fish, fish cleaning & fish license. Most people bring a cooler with drinks (no glass, please) and sandwiches. Having a cooler provides a nice place to put your catch, once it has been cleaned and placed in a plastic bag. And consider sun block (wash this off your hands, fish hate the taste of sun block!), sunglasses, hat, camera and warm clothing for cool weather.

Will I catch fish? 

That depends on how you wiggle your worm! Seriously, most people catch and bring home fish. Some fish will have to be released because of size or season. The mates give a fishing lesson, just before fishing starts. If you pay attention, your chances are very good. If you seem to be having trouble, whether you can’t feel the bites, or for what ever reason, ask one of our friendly mates for help. 

Can I bring my child?

 Children 5 & under are free. Children must weigh 40 pounds or more to come on board. Kids usually have a great time with lots to see on the trip. Please make sure you are with the child at all times! No running amok! Children 5 and under don't get a rod; they're just too small!

Will I get seasick? 

I hope not, but we see it happen!  If you ever get motion sickness, or feel you may, be sure to come prepared. There are many options available.  Dramamine, Bonine (at least one hour prior to departure) Then there’s always ginger ale and soda crackers, an old favorite. Ginger is a natural cure for motion sickness.

How far out does the boat go?

Trip lengths are from 4-10 hours, depending on demand, season, and of course where the fish are. In the summer, the most popular trip is 6 hrs, on which we travel about 12-15 miles from the dock. The travel time on this is 1 ½ hours each way. You can count on half riding and half fishing on most trips.

What about life jackets?
 

All of our life jackets are Coastguard approved and are only used in case of emergency. Our smallest jacket will fit a 40lb child.

Do you assign seats?
 

1st come, first seated. The deckhands arrive 1½ hour before each trip. You can tie off a spot up until 1 hour prior to departure. After that, everyone gets in line.
 

What can we catch?

A variety of reef fish including several types of snapper, grouper, jacks, porgies, to name a few. Please call to ask about what you can keep, as closures are constantly changing.

How many people does the boat hold?

 Sweet Jody is Coastguard approved for 49 passengers. We take up to 40 people fishing per trip. The boat is 57 ft., and we fish all the way around the boat, giving over 3 'rail' feet per person. 

Are you wheelchair friendly?
 

Not so much, though we do our best to accommodate them.              

What about tipping?

Our mates will assist you throughout the trip. Tipping is customary, usually 15-20% and fish cleaning is included. All the other party boats charge extra for fish cleaning.