What the Boat Environment Demands
Offshore trips (see inshore vs deep sea fishing) mix strong sun, wind, salt spray, and a deck that can be wet and slippery. Mornings on the water are often colder than the shore, while afternoons can be hot with little shade. The goal is clothing that dries quickly, protects your skin, and can be layered up or down. For a broader look at dressing for different conditions, see What to Wear to Go Fishing in Any Weather.
Tops
A long-sleeve, lightweight synthetic shirt (polyester or nylon) is a common choice. Many are sold with a UPF rating, which indicates how much ultraviolet radiation the fabric blocks. Vented panels help in heat, and a hood or neck gaiter protects the neck. Avoid heavy cotton, which stays wet and can feel cold once the wind picks up.
Pants and Shorts
Quick-drying performance pants or shorts are a good fit. Long pants protect against sun and give some protection from scrapes and from fish slime, and many people prefer lightweight convertible pants. Avoid denim, which is slow to dry and heavy when wet. If you wear shorts, apply sunscreen to your legs as well, since there is often little shade on a boat.
Footwear
Answering a common question about shoes: wear closed-toe, non-slip shoes. Deck shoes or sneakers with soft, grippy soles work well. Many charter operators ask guests to wear non-marking soles so they do not mark the deck, and some do not allow black-soled shoes, so check with your captain. Flip-flops are generally discouraged because they can slip and leave your toes exposed to hooks, tools, and heavy gear. Rubber boots are often used in colder conditions, but they are hard to swim in if you fall overboard, so many captains and anglers prefer shoes.
Layers and Rain Gear
Even in warm regions, early morning boat rides can feel cold. Pack:
- A fleece or hoodie as a mid layer
- A packable waterproof and windproof jacket
- Rain pants for rough or wet days
Layers are easier to adjust than one thick jacket. Spray from the bow can soak you even on a dry day, so an outer shell is useful.
Hats, Sunglasses, and Sun Protection
- A wide-brim or neck-flap hat that fits snugly, or a cap with a retention clip, since wind can take hats overboard.
- Polarized sunglasses with a strap, which cut glare and protect eyes.
- Sunscreen applied before boarding and reapplied through the day. Check the label for reapplication timing and water resistance.
- Lip balm with sun protection and light gloves if your hands burn easily.
Winter and Cold-Water Trips
In cooler months, add insulated mid layers, a warm hat, gloves you can use for handling gear, and wool or synthetic socks. A thermal base layer under your clothing helps. Make sure your outer layer still lets you move freely when reeling.
What to Leave at Home
- Jewelry and loose items that can snag or fall overboard
- Heavy cotton clothing and jeans
- Anything you would hate to get fish slime or sunscreen on
- Hard-sided coolers, if the charter forbids them; ask first
Other Things to Bring
Clothing is only part of preparation, and the species you target, such as mahi mahi, shapes the day. Most charters supply rods, reels, and basic tackle, but check what yours provides. Many guests also bring:
- Any motion sickness remedy you have used before, taken as directed on the label, since conditions can change
- Snacks and water, if allowed
- A soft-sided cooler for bringing fish home
- Cash for tips
- A small dry bag for phone and keys
If you want to take your catch home, a good fillet knife is a useful bit of kit; our Fishing Fillet Knife Reviews explains what to look for. Many charters will clean fish for you for a tip.
Tipping the Crew
Tipping practices vary by region and boat, so ask the operator when you book. A frequently cited guideline for charter trips is around 15 to 20 percent of the trip cost for the captain and mate, split among the crew, with more for exceptional service. For a four-hour trip, tips are often given in cash at the dock. Some charters list their tipping suggestions on their website, so that is the best source.
Packing Checklist
- Long-sleeve sun shirt
- Quick-dry pants or shorts
- Non-slip, closed-toe shoes
- Fleece or hoodie and a waterproof outer layer
- Hat with a strap and polarized sunglasses
- Sunscreen and lip balm
- Snacks, water, tip money, and a dry bag
- Change of clothes for the ride home