Frequently Asked Questions

A party boat, also known as a headboat, is a large fishing boat that sells individual tickets instead of chartering the whole boat to one group. The name comes from paying "per head". These boats usually carry 20 to 100 or more anglers and provide everything you need for a day of fishing.

On a party boat you buy a ticket and share the boat with other anglers, which makes it far more affordable. A private charter rents the entire boat to your group for a custom trip. Party boats are a great fit if you want a fun, social day on the water without the cost of a private trip.

Most party boat trips cost $40 to $150 per person, depending on trip length, location, and season. Half-day trips are usually the most affordable, while full-day, overnight, and deep-sea trips cost more. Multi-day trips can run several hundred dollars or more per person. Each boat's page shows its starting price.

Use Browse Boats to search by boat name, town, or fish, and filter by state. You can also open Destinations to see every boat in a state or city.

Some boats take walk-ups, but we recommend calling ahead, especially on summer weekends and holidays when popular boats fill up. Every boat's page lists its phone number.

No. Party boats are perfect for beginners. The crew will help you bait your hook, show you how to drop your line, and help when you get a bite. They are used to helping first-timers have a great day.

Most party boat trips include a rod and reel, bait, tackle, and a fishing license for the trip, plus help from the crew. Many boats also clean your catch. Food and drinks are usually for sale on board, or you can bring your own. Each boat's page lists what is included.

It depends on where and when you fish. Common catches include snapper, grouper, sea bass, flounder, and many more. Every boat's page lists the species it targets, and each species page shows the boats that fish for it.

Trip lengths vary by boat and location. Common options are half-day trips (4 to 5 hours), full-day trips (8 to 10 hours), and overnight trips. Some boats also run shorter 2 to 3 hour trips that work well for families with young children.

Yes. In most cases you can keep your catch, subject to local rules on species, size limits, and bag limits. The crew will explain the current regulations, and many boats will clean your fish so you can take home fillets ready to cook.

Most party boats allow your own rod and tackle, but you don't need to bring anything. The boat provides it all. If you do bring your own gear, check with the boat first about any restrictions on the rigs you can use.

Tipping is customary on party boats. The usual amount is 15 to 20 percent of your ticket price, though any amount is appreciated. The crew works hard to find fish, help anglers, and clean your catch. Tips are usually collected at the end of the trip.

Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, layers (it is often cooler on the water), non-slip closed-toe shoes, seasickness medication if you are prone to motion sickness, a small cooler with drinks and snacks, and a camera for your catch.

Safety comes first. If conditions are unsafe, the boat will cancel, and you will usually get a full refund or the option to rebook. Trips normally still run in light rain. Ask the boat about its own cancellation policy when you book.

Party boats are generally safe for children, and many families bring kids along. Age rules vary by boat: some have a minimum age and others welcome all ages. Life jackets are on board and the crew is trained in safety procedures. Check with the boat about its age policy.

Accessibility varies by boat. Some newer or larger boats have accessible features, while smaller boats may not. Call the boat before you book to talk through your needs. They can tell you about boarding, the layout on board, and any help they can offer.

Party Boats USA is a directory for finding and comparing party boats. We don't run any boats ourselves. When you are ready to go, you book directly with the boat's captain and crew, so you always deal with the people running your trip.

Listing is free. Go to List Your Boat to claim your existing listing or add a new one. Once your listing is yours, you can keep your photos, trips, and prices up to date and take bookings online through Hookset.