How do I reserve a charter with Black Wake Sportfishing?
All trips must be reserved at least 1 week in advance.

You can visit our booking calendar to reserve your date and time. Once we confirm your booking date and time is available, we will send you the required paperwork which includes our Booking Terms & Conditions, Cancellation Policy, Customer Agreement, and Liability Waiver as well as a payment link to secure your deposit. As the person reserving the charter date and time, you are considered the Booking Customer and each person in your party/group is your responsibility and each person is required to complete the Liability Waiver. and are confirmed once a deposit is received. A booking is not secured until you receive written confirmation via email and/or text.

Which is the better charter?
This can only be answered by you and what you are looking to accomplish and how much time you want to be on the water. A full day charter does provide you the most bang for your buck since half day charters are $700 and full day charters are $1,200.

What is the required deposit?

A non-refundable deposit of $250 or 25% of the total charter fee (whichever is greater) is required to secure your charter date and time.

Is the deposit refundable?
Deposits are non-refundable because your date and time is reserved exclusively for your group. Exceptions apply only if the Captain cancels under the Weather & Safety policy included in Section 5 of the Cancellation Policy.

When is the balance due?

The remaining balance is due:

• Seven (7) business days prior to departure, OR

• On the day of charter prior to boarding

as stated in your Customer Agreement. Failure to pay the balance when due may result in cancellation without refund of deposit.

What forms of payments do you accept?
We accept:

• Check (payable to Black Wake Sportfishing LLC)

• Credit Cards

• Zelle / ACH

• CashApp

• Apple Pay

Is gratuity included?
No, gratuity is not included in the charter price. It’s customary 15%-20% tip for the Captain and crew which is truly appreciated!

How early should we arrive?
Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time.

Late arrivals may result in:

• Reduced trip time

• Full charter fee still owed

• Possible trip cancellation without refund

How many passengers are allowed?
Per US Coast Guard (USCG) regulations and vessel safety, we are limited to 6 paying customers plus Captain & First Mate (if applicable). We are limiting our vessel to 4 anglers to keep safe space for one another. Final passenger count must be provided in writing at least three (3) business days prior to your charter.

Can we bring children?
Yes. Children 16 and under must:

• be accompanied by a parent/guardian

• have a waiver signed by a guardian

• follow all safety rules

What’s included?
Charters may include:

• Vessel & Captain

• Crew (if applicable)

• Standard safety equipment

• Required licensing (if applicable)

• Standard gear and tackle (if applicable)

Specialty gear, bait, fuel surcharges, or extended-range trips may incur additional costs.

What should I bring with me?
Besides a good attitude, bring what you deem necessary such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunblock (non-aerosol). The weather can change throughout the day so it is wise to dress in layers and comfortable shoes like boat boots or sneakers. Avoid flip flops or open toed shoes because we are fishing with hooks and they do not discriminate or care if you have cute/new shoes or just got a pedicure.

We are dealing with water so it is also smart to keep your personal items, including electrics and phones, in a dry safe bag.
Check out our Amazon List for suggested items. These are not required for your charter but things we have found along the way that help us.

Under USCG regulations and vessel safety, we are required to have a Type I life jacket for each person onboard. We are also limited by weight. This includes all persons, gear, fuel, etc.

Is lunch provided with the full day charter?
Meals are not included in any of our charters; however, given the length of the charter, we can visit Block Island or any coastal city with a dock for lunch. You can certainly pack a lunch but please no glassware items. We are at the mercy of the ocean and if your glassware items break, there’s a safety hazard as well as damage risk to the vessel.

What if I get seasick?

We understand better than anyone that seasick feeling is not fun, but just like in theater, the show will go on. We can recommend a few items that may help such as Dramamine or Motion Sickness relief patches. Check out our Amazon List for suggested items. These are not required for your charter but things we have found along the way that help us.

If you wish to end your charter short, you will not be refunded any prorated or unused portion of your charter time duration. Once you board the vessel, the charter is considered redeemed and completed.

If we have to end the charter early because someone gets sick or other type of emergency, will I get a prorated refund of the unused portion of my charter?
If you wish to end your charter short, you will not be refunded any prorated or unused portion of your charter time duration. Once boarded on the vessel, the charter is considered redeemed and completed.

Are you responsible for lost items?

Black Wake Sportfishing is not responsible for your personal items. Passengers are responsible for:

• Electronics (phones, cameras, etc.)

• Clothing

• Personal belongings

• Medication and sun protection

Aerosol sunscreen/tanning products are not permitted onboard.

Do trips run in the rain?

Yes — trips run rain or shine unless the Captain cancels due to safety concerns.

Who decides if weather cancel the trip?

Weather decisions are made solely by the Captain, not forecasts or customer preference.

What happens if the Captain cancels?

If the Captain cancels for safety, you will be offered:

• A rescheduled date, or

• A refund per company policy

Who is in charge during the trip?

The Captain has full authority over:

• Vessel operation

• Passenger behavior

• Safety decisions

• Trip continuation or termination

Failure to follow instructions may result in trip termination without refund.

What behavior is NOT allowed?

The following may result in immediate termination without refund:

• Unsafe behavior

• Harassment or aggression

• Refusal to follow instructions

• Excessive intoxication

• Smoking or vaping

• Drug use

• Illegal activity

Is alcohol allowed?

Alcohol policy varies by charter type:

• Beer and wine may be permitted in moderation (no hard liquor).

• No illegal drugs are permitted under any circumstances.

Do you guarantee we’ll catch fish?

No. Fishing charters are about the experience and effort. We cannot guarantee:

• Catch quantity

• Specific species

• Wildlife sightings

What if we damage or lose equipment?

Guests are responsible for damage caused by negligence, misuse, or ignoring instructions. Repair or replacement costs may be charged, including lost rods or reels overboard.

Will photos/videos from our trip be used online?
Unless you opt out in writing before your trip, you grant permission for photos/videos taken during your charter to be used for:

• Social media

• Marketing

• Promotional materials

Do we need to sign a waiver?
Yes. All passengers must sign a Liability Waiver prior to departure.

The primary booking customer is responsible for:

• All guests in their party

• Ensuring waivers are signed

• Ensuring guests follow all rules