How Much Does it Cost to Go Deep-Sea Fishing?

Deep-sea fishing is the ultimate adventure for people who love fishing. Whether you’ve been on a deep-sea fishing trip before or not, there are many things to consider when hiring a deep-sea fishing charter, one of which is the price.

So, how much does it cost to go deep-sea fishing? The cost of a deep-sea fishing charter varies depending on destination, boat availability, time of the year, and the length of the trip. Hiring a deep-sea fishing charter, on average, costs from $500 to $2600. The exact cost will depend on whether you booked a private fishing boat or a public one.

If you plan to go on a deep-sea fishing trip, research different charter services to get the best value for your money. The more time you spend researching the destination and the type of fishing you want, the higher your chances of experiencing an unforgettable sea fishing trip. 

Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about deep-sea fishing prices at popular fishing destinations and whether offshore fishing is worth the money.

What Is Deep-sea Fishing?

Deep-sea fishing also called offshore or big game fishing is a type of recreational fishing done below 100 feet in ocean waters. Deep-sea fishing is done in boats, far away from the shore.

Larger boats that are at least 30 feet long are usually used for deep-sea fishing. Being on a larger boat in open waters ensures a safe and comfortable fishing experience for anglers. Deep-sea charters are filled with rods, reels, and lures designed to catch and bring big fish aboard. 

Is Deep Sea Fishing Worth the Money?

Deep-sea fishing is unlike any other type of fishing you might experience. The breathtaking sights, blue skies, crystal clear water, interesting wildlife, and unique catches make deep sea fishing well worth the money.

Although hired fishing charters are expensive, deep-sea fishing is a fantastic adventure for people looking to try something different and experience an exciting adventure while on vacation. At the right destination with an experienced fishing guide, a deep-sea fishing trip is well worth your money. 

Average Deep Sea Fishing Cost in the US

Average Deep Sea Fishing Cost in the US

On average, private deep-sea fishing charters cost from $500 to $2600. Most private charters allow up to six persons on a boat at the same time. To be on the safe side, check with the charter service how many persons they allow on the boat when booking the trip.

How much private deep fishing charters cost depends on the destination, the trip’s length, and the species of fish you want to catch. 

Public fishing charters are usually cheaper than private charters because they allow as many people on the boat as will fit in comfortably. 

Public deep-sea fishing boats cost anywhere from $90 to $200 per person. The prices of public fishing charters vary depending on how many people will be on the ship, the type of fish you want to catch, and how long the trip will last.

How Much Does It Cost to Deep Sea Fish in Florida?

How much it costs to keep fish in Florida depends on the type of boat fishing charter you choose. 

Party boat fishing is the most affordable option in Florida, followed by semi-private fishing charters. Private fishing charters are the most popular option for deep-sea fishing in Florida and are also the most expensive. 

Booking a party boat fishing charter in Florida typically costs $65 to $105 per person. On average, a semi-private fishing charter costs $125 to $275 per person, and private deep fishing charters in Florida usually cost $150 to $225 per hour. 

How Much Does It Cost to Go Deep-sea Fishing in Alaska?

The price of fishing in Alaska depends on several factors, including the length of the trip, the species you’re trying to catch, the destination, and the time of the year. On average, a deep-sea fishing charter in Alaska costs from $230 to $500 per person. 

Booking a full-day private charter costs around $1800 for six persons in the off-season or around $1950 for six persons in peak season.

How Much Does It Cost to Go Deep-sea Fishing in Panama?

Hiring a deep-sea fishing charter in Panama, for a half-day fishing trip, costs around $80 to $150 per person. The exact cost of a fishing trip will depend on the destination, time of the year, and the size of your group. 

In most cases, the price of a deep-sea fishing trip in Panama also covers drinks, snacks, cleaning and filleting the fish, an ice box, a fishing license, live bait, rods, reels, and tackle. 

Other Notable Deep Sea Fishing Costs

Besides paying for a deep-sea fishing trip, anglers are expected to leave a 15% to 20% gratuity for the crew for good service. Although some anglers aren’t sure whether or not they should tip the crew and their fishing guide, a gratuity is always appreciated. It shows the captain and the crew you’ve had a wonderful time.

If you’re going on a group deep-sea fishing trip, you can split the costs and save some money. The bigger the group, the less money you’ll shell out for tips. Of course, you can always leave a bigger tip if your group had a superb fishing experience. 

Conclusion

Going on a deep-sea fishing trip might seem expensive, but it’s worth every penny. Before you book a deep-sea fishing trip, research the charter company, including the quality of their charter boats and the crew’s experience. 

Most fishermen spend their lives fishing in the same local lakes or rivers and don’t get the chance to experience everything deep-sea fishing has to offer. If your vacation time is coming up, research what different charter companies have to offer, assemble a group of friends and book yourself a deep-sea fishing adventure.