What’s Included in Your Charter: A Complete Gear Breakdown

When you book a fishing charter in the Everglades, especially with seasoned guides like Capt. Mitch and his team, you’re not just signing up for a boat ride. You’re getting a fully equipped experience—designed to take the stress off you and let you focus on what really matters: catching fish, enjoying the water, and soaking in the unique beauty of the Everglades.

If you’ve ever wondered what’s actually included in a guided fishing trip—and what you need to bring yourself—this guide will break it all down. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a first-timer, here’s exactly what you can expect on board.

Rods, Reels & Tackle: We’ve Got You Covered

Each trip includes a full set of high-quality rods and reels suited for the type of fishing we’ll be doing. Capt. Mitch outfits his charters with gear selected for reliability, sensitivity, and performance in backcountry and inshore environments.

We’re not talking about entry-level equipment here. You’ll be using the same type of rods and reels our captains rely on for their own fishing gear that can handle hard-hitting snook, the aerial acrobatics of tarpon, and the subtle take of a redfish in shallow water.

What’s Included:

If you’re curious or particular about gear, just ask. Our captains are always happy to walk you through the setups and even offer tips on improving your own technique.

Bait & Lures: Matched to the Bite

Choosing the right bait can be the difference between a slow day and non-stop action. That’s why bait and lure selection is never left to chance.

We provide all the live bait and artificial lures needed for your trip, selected based on the season, tides, moon phase, and recent activity in the area.

You’ll Have Access To:

Because the Everglades is such a diverse fishery, having a range of baits on hand is critical, and we make sure you’re never under-equipped.

The Boat: Your Basecamp for the Day

The ride matters. Every trip takes place aboard a custom 23ft Seahawk, a boat designed to handle shallow backcountry waters while keeping you comfortable and dry.

Key Features:

The boat isn’t just transportation—it’s your mobile fishing platform, and it’s built to give you the best chance of success, no matter where the fish are hiding.

Tackle & Terminal Gear: Every Detail Handled

Hooks, weights, swivels, bobbers, leader material—it’s all included and tailored to the environment. You don’t have to worry about assembling the right setup. We do all the rigging, tying, and switching so you can focus on fishing.

We carry a full range of tackle onboard, including:

All terminal tackle is top-quality and replaced regularly. You won’t be using rusty hooks or frayed lines on our boat.

Safety Gear: Prepared for the Unexpected

Capt. Mitch and crew take safety seriously. While you’re out enjoying nature, we’re quietly making sure all the essentials are covered.

Onboard Safety Gear Includes:

All equipment is Coast Guard compliant and regularly inspected. You’re in safe hands from start to finish.

Optional Extras: Enhance the Experience

While most of what you need is included, there are a few things you can bring to enhance the trip, especially if you want to capture memories or stay extra comfortable.

Recommended Add-ons to Bring:

Fishing licenses? Nope. Not needed. We’ve got that covered too. All anglers aboard are covered under the boat’s license.

Who Is This Gear For?

All of this is designed for a wide range of anglers. Whether you’re:

—This gear setup meets you where you are. We tailor the trip and the tackle to your experience level and goals. If you want to learn, we’ll teach. If you just want to cast and catch, we’ll keep the rods loaded and the boat pointed in the right direction.

Final Thoughts

A great fishing trip isn’t about having the flashiest gear—it’s about having the right gear, set up by people who know how to use it. That’s exactly what you get with a guided charter from Capt. Mitch’s Everglades Fishing Tours.

Every rod, reel, bait, and boat feature is chosen with care and backed by decades of local experience. When everything’s set up and ready to go, your only job is to show up, step aboard, and fish.

Whether you’re chasing tarpon, exploring the quiet creeks of the Ten Thousand Islands, or enjoying a laid-back day with family, you’ll be fully equipped from the moment you set foot on deck.