FAQs

WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED.

Have questions? You’re in the right place.
Here are answers to the most common questions about your trip with Coast Rat Fishing Charters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Our deckhands work for tips. While gratuities are always optional, a 20%+ tip is customary and appreciated for excellent service.

All trips depart from Caribe Marina in Orange Beach, Alabama.You’ll receive exact directions and arrival instructions after booking.

It depends on the boat you choose:

This keeps the experience comfortable and safe for everyone on board.

We offer full-boat pricing, not per person.

That means:

  • The price is the same whether you bring 2 people or 6 (within the limit)
  • You’re booking the entire boat for your group
  • No strangers — just your crew

Our offshore trips aboard Firm Commitment are designed for serious fishing time and typically run:

  • 8-hour trips
  • 10-hour trips
  • 12-hour trips

These longer trips give you more time to run offshore, target bigger fish, and maximise your day on the water.

Inshore and nearshore trips aboard Sea Chelles are more flexible and can be customised based on your group.

We recommend arriving 20–30 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow time for parking and getting settled.

We understand plans change.

Cancellation details will be provided at booking, but generally:

  • Advance notice is required for refunds
  • Weather-related cancellations are always handled fairly

Nope — we’ve got that covered. All required fishing licenses are included in your charter.

Yes. We follow all Alabama and federal fishing regulations, including current size limits, bag limits, and seasonal closures. Our captain and crew will ensure your catch complies with all applicable regulations.

In most cases, yes! Any legal fish that meet current regulations may be kept. Our crew can even clean and bag your catch so it’s ready for the table.

Free parking is available in the Caribe Marina parking lot.

You’ll meet your captain at the fuel dock directly in front of Caribe Marina. If you arrive early, feel free to stop by the Dock Store upstairs to use the restrooms or pick up any last-minute essentials like drinks, snacks, sunglasses, or other supplies. If you’re unsure where to go, the Dock Store staff will be happy to point you to the fuel dock.

Your charter includes everything you need to fish:

We handle everything — you just show up ready to fish.

Offshore (Firm Commitment):

  • Deeper water
  • Bigger fish
  • Longer runs
  • Smoother ride 
  • 46′ Invincible (catamaran)

Inshore/Nearshore (Sea Chelles):

  • Closer to land
  • Great for families and beginners
  • More flexible trip options
  • Includes night fishing opportunities
  • 27′ Boston Whaler Dauntless

Yes — our offshore vessel, Firm Commitment, is equipped with Starlink internet, so you can stay connected even when you’re miles offshore. 

Yes! We’ll clean and bag your catch after the trip so it’s ready to take home.

Yes! Coast Rat Fishing Charters offers tournament fishing opportunities for anglers looking to compete in local and regional tournaments along the Gulf Coast. Tournament availability, vessel selection, and pricing vary based on the event. Contact us to discuss your goals and ask about our Tournament Fishing Package.

Yes! We love having families on board.
Our Sea Chelles (inshore boat) is especially great for kids and first-time anglers.


If you’re new to fishing, we typically recommend one of our inshore trips aboard Sea Chelles.

 Inshore fishing offers calmer waters, shorter travel times, and plenty of opportunities to catch fish, making it a great option for first-time anglers, families, and kids.

If you’re not sure which trip is right for your group, give us a call and we’ll be happy to help you choose. 

Your safety comes first.

If weather conditions aren’t safe, the captain will:

  • Reschedule your trip, or
  • Issue a refund if rescheduling isn’t possible

Absolutely. Both of our vessels are equipped with all required U.S. Coast Guard safety equipment, including life jackets for adults and children. Your captain will provide a brief safety overview before the trip so everyone can relax and enjoy their day on the water.

Our Boats, Your Adventure.

Firm Commitment

46' Invincible Catamaran

OFFSHORE

UP TO 6 PASSENGERS

Sea Chelles

27' Boston Whaler Dauntless

INSHORE /NEARSHORE

UP TO 4 PASSENGERS

Still Have Questions?

We’re here to help!

Call, text or email us anytime — we’re happy to help you plan the perfect trip.

CALL US

(251) 504-0040

text us

(251) 504-0040

email us

info@coastratfishing.com

Private Charters

Only your group on the boat

One Trip Per Day

100% focused on you

Top of the Line Gear

The best equipment for the best experience

Local Experts

We know these waters like no one else

Safety First

Your safety is our priority