Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Do we need a fishing permit?

A. All of Sharky's OBX charter fishing boats have what is called a blanket license. This license covers every one that is fishing on board our vessels. However if you are going to fish on the beach or some other places you will need a license for that.

Q. What do we need to bring to the boat with us on our OBX charter fishing trip?

A. Food, beverages, lotion sunscreen only (please no spray sunscreen due to impact on marine environment), sunglasses (polarized lenses if possible), cameras and plenty of film. You may want to bring along a small cooler to take your beverages on the boat. Please keep your larger coolers in your vehicle to take your catch home. Your captain will provide all the necessary bait and tackle.

Q. I already have six anglers in my group, may I bring an observer along as an extra person?

A. No, US Coast Guard regulations limit the maximum number of passengers to no more than 6 people whether they are fishing or not. However for groups larger than 6 people we can offer to split a larger group on more than one boat. Please call us for additional options.

Q. Will you guarantee that we'll catch fish?

A. Our Captains and Mates are trained professionals. Sport fishing is not their hobby, it is their chosen profession. While we constantly produce fine catches in fishing there are never any guarantees. However, the waters off the Carolina coast are famous for their bountiful catches and we will do our very best for every charter.

Q. Can we keep the fish we catch?

A. Yes, you will be able to keep all edible fish that comply with the legal size and creel limits.

Q.Are fish cleaning services available?

A. Yes, experienced fish cleaners are available to clean and bag your catch upon your return to the dock. They will clean your fish for a reasonable fee. Please note - All fish caught during a make-up trip are to go to the fish cleaner. The cleaning (filleting) bill, as well as the catch is equally divided among the party.

Q.What should I do with my catch if it is early in our stay and we want to take the fish home with us?

A. Fresh Catch Seafood (252-473-7484) at 57 Harbor Rd. in Wanchese should be your final stop in this situation. Once your fish has been filleted at the marina, Fresh Catch will portion, vacuum seal, freeze and store your catch. You will be able to stop by and pick it up just before you plan to head home.

Q. What is a customary tip for the Mate?

A. Mates are the hardest working person on a fishing charter and they depend on your tips to augment their income. In NC it is customary to tip your mate 20%. Please always inform the Captain of your opinion of the services provided.

Q. Can we buy beer the morning of our trip?

A. North Carolina law prohibits the sale of alcohol before 7:00 AM daily and Noon on Sundays. There is a Ship's Store at the marina that stocks just about anything you will need for a day on the water.

Q. What is the cancellation policy?

A. A deposit is due within 10 days of making a reservation. Trips may be cancelled due to inclement weather or unforeseen circumstances at the discretion of the Captain. Every effort will be made to inform parties traveling to fish with us of possible bad weather. Your entire party is expected to be at the dock ready to fish, unless otherwise notified. Already scheduled trips must be cancelled prior to two weeks of fish date in order to receive deposit refund. Cancellations due to weather will be rescheduled or a full refund will be issued. Please remember we may need to contact you so please provide us with a local number or a cell phone. If there are any special needs that you may require before or during the trip please contact us, we will do what we can to accommodate you.

Q. What marinas and inlets do your boats fish out of?

A. In order to help assure that we can assist you with your charter needs no matter what the circumstance, Sharky's has a working relationship with boats from all major Outer Banks marinas. We serve visitors in all the northern Outer Banks cities including Wanchese, Manteo, Nags Head, Kill Devil Hills, Kitty Hawk, Southern Shores, Duck and Corolla which fish in the areas around Oregon Inlet.

Q. Will we get seasick?

A. If you are prone to seasickness or motion sickness there are many over-the-counter pills available. However most of them do come with some undesireable side effects. If you are concerned with taking or even giving these medicines to your family please consider getting an electronic Reliefband. I have been using these bands for years. These electronic devices even work well on 3D amusement park rides and reading a book while riding in a car. Note; Like medications, these electronic bands do not work for everyone. Especially folks that are bothered by the small electric pulses this device creates and people who are not willing to turn it to its higher settings to increase the electrical pulsing.