What should I bring?
We always suggest bringing sunglasses, hat, long and short sleeve shirt, rain gear, and any medications that you might need while fishing. Watch the weather and remember it is always cooler on the water, a light jacket is always recommended. Of course sunscreen and a few light snacks.
Tipping/Gratuity?
Tip is defined as a gift of money, over and above payment due for services. Tipping is not mandatory, customers should tip when they feel the guide has worked hard for them. Remember tipping is based on service not just catching fish. So if your guide has worked hard for you let them know you appreciate it by giving them a tip. Industry standard runs 15% – 20% for tipping.
Where do you fish?
All around Lake Okeechobee, depending on wind direction and location of fish, your guide will do everything possible to put you on fish. Special trips can be arranged to fish surrounding bodies of water and also saltwater trips are available.
How many days should I fish?
The more days you fish the better chances you have a catching that once in a lifetime fish. We suggest fishing as many days as you can whether that be one day or a week, we can accommodate you.
Can I use my own tackle?
We recommended bring your own rod and reel combos for artificial trips. This way you have a rod that you are accustomed to using. However, we will always have plenty for those that don’t.
Can you handle group & company trips?
Yes, whether you need 3 boats or 10+ boats we have the resources necessary to book a large group outing. Need to set up a small tournament for a group with the guides let us take care of you. We can set up a weigh in with lunch and awards to follow.
What are your deposit and cancellation policies?
We DO NOT require a deposit for reservation, however, we do require a credit card # in order to confirm your reservation. Any cancellation 48 + hours in advance will incur $0 charge. Inside of 48 hours you will be charged $100. Any trips that no show or no call, will be charged the full amount of the trip price. Cancellations due to weather will be reschedule if possible, if not you will not occur any charge.
What will we fish for?
The most common guided trips on Lake Okeechobee include Largemouth bass, however, we also have several trips that include all sorts of panfish (crappie, bluegill and shellcracker) and catfish. If it swims in the lake we can set you up with the right guide to give you the best opportunity to catch fish.
Do I need a license?
You are required to have a freshwater fishing license for fishing on Lake Okeechobee, these can be purchased on site where the guide party meets at Fast Break Bait and Tackle or at www.myfwc.com. Customers who wish to purchase license on site will need to have a driver’s license and social security number for US residents. Non US residents will need passport to purchase a fishing license.
Where do we meet our guide?
You will meet your guide at Fast Break Bait and Tackle located at 1505 State Road 78 West, Okeechobee, FL 34974. You can purchase everything from artificial baits to snack and drinks as the store is both a convenience store and a bait and tackle shop. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled meeting time as this helps keep everyone on time.
Start time?
With most fishing trips the start time will be meeting 30 minutes prior to sunrise. However, if you would rather we also offer afternoon trips that would start after lunchtime. After booking your trip we will be in contact with you in order to setup your meeting times.