Frequently Asked Questions
​
​
Q. WHY SHOULD I USE A PROFESSIONAL CHARTER?
A. Fishing with a professional is your guarantee of a safe, successful outing. Our captains know the area, fish regularly and work with other captains. Being in the right places at the right time is a very important part of fishing.
​
Q. IS THERE A BATHROOM ON THE BOAT?
A. There is a private head with a toilet on both of our boats. However, we ask that you use it sparingly as needed and to please use the bathroom at the marina prior to departure. Please respect our boat and clean up after yourself. NEVER flush any products other than the degradable toilet paper provided as it can and will clog the pump-out system.
​
Q. IS A FISHING LICENSE REQUIRED?
A. All persons age 17 or older are required to have a fishing license. Please purchase your Michigan All-Species Fishing License before you get to the boat. You will need to bring a paper copy of your license with you per Michigan DNR rules for outlying waters. You can purchase your license online by clicking the license page on our website.
Q – DO I NEED TO BRING ALONG ANY FISHING EQUIPMENT?
A – No. All fishing equipment is provided for your fishing trip. Please do not bring your own rod or tackle. We have the best equipment in the industry, and it is custom rigged and ready to go for your trip.
Q – HOW MANY PEOPLE CAN I BRING ALONG?
A – In compliance with the U.S. Coast Guard regulations we are licensed and insured to carry a MAXIMUM of six (6) passengers per charter boat. Even though we a legally allowed to take (6) passengers our boat can only accommodate up to (5), with (2-4) being the ideal group size per charter. If you have a group of 6 or larger, we can split the group up on two boats. Hooked Up Charters provides private charters; we do not combine groups or add singles into groups.
Q – WHAT IF I HAVE NEVER FISHED BEFORE?
A – No experience is no problem with Hooked Up Charters our Captain is great with newcomers to the sport by giving simple explanations and demonstrations, they will have you feeling like an expert in no time!
Q – CAN I BRING ALCOHOL ON THE BOAT?
A – Yes. Adults 21 years and over may bring beer, wine etc. cans and plastic bottles are preferred over glass as it is very easy to break glass with the boat moving. We request that you drink responsibly as excessive intoxication will not be tolerated. *Absolutely no illegal substances of any kind are allowed on the boat.
Q- CAN I BRING MY KIDS?
A – There is no definite age restriction on our boats. We do encourage parents to take their children fishing when they feel they are ready and get enjoyment from the experience.
Q. HOW FAR DO WE GO OFFSHORE TO FISH?
A – It depends on the trip that you book. Local trips range from 3-15 miles off shore. With our most popular trip being Stannard Rock at 45 miles off shore.
Q – WHO CLEANS THE FISH?
A – Our Captain will clean, prepare and bag your catch to your liking at no extra cost.
Q – WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO STORE MY FISH LONG TERM?
A – Keep your catch cold (iced) while traveling back home. Before you freeze your catch we suggest packaging individually using a vacuum sealer. Fillets can be stored for up to a year in proper conditions.
Q – WHAT IS A LIMIT CATCH?
A – The limit is 5 fish per person, per day for in-shore trips. The Stannard Rock regulations changed in November of 2025, the new limit for that trip is 1 fish per person. Once a limit is reached, we can continue to fish but all fish must be immediately released per DNR regulations.
Q – WHAT IF IT RAINS?
A – Rain is not a problem, we will head out as planned as we have a hardtop and cabin for you to get out of the rain. Rain gear is always recommended. Your safety is our number one priority. If the weather causes unsafe fishing conditions your Captain will cancel the trip and reschedule for a later date.
Q – WHAT TIME WILL WE LEAVE THE DOCK?
A – Hooked Up Charters will book up to 3 charters per day 7 days a week. Departure times listed on your booking are approximate and may vary throughout the year depending on sunrise and sunset times. Your captain will contact you prior to your trip to confirm your time of departure.
Q – WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO CATCH FISH?
A - We have great success throughout the entire season. Contact us for details on target species.
​
Q – IS A TIP REQUIRED?
A – Our captains work very hard to ensure that you have an unforgettable experience, and they are grateful and appreciative of your tips. 20% is considered the industry standard for a good experience.