Reel Candy Offshore Fishing Special?

[SamFamAustin]

Hi all,

Yay, my parents are headed over to Dickie's Cay today! Time to think about "an Abaco" and a fishing trip.

This is a rumor that perhaps can be confirmed, but Reel Candy seems to have discounted some offshore trips if you subscribe to Hilton's Real-time Navigator, Marlin Magazine, or something oddly called the "Marlin University." The discount was reportedly on the order of 25%, which is substantial for an offshore trip.

Perhaps some of you can confirm or belay that rumor, maybe even the owners of Reel Candy? Anyway, Reel Candy does operate out of Marsh Harbour and can be reached in Florida at 941-928-8888.

[bahamajb]

I'm sure you could negotiate a discount with a Bahamian charter, they're all hurting right now, and would appreciate the business.

[bahamajb]

Hi Sam, You could surely negotiate with a Bahamian charter, they are all hurting right now. Try "Down Deep" on Lubbers 242 366 3143. best of luck.

[Reel Candy]

Sam:
In answer to your post. We are not in Marsh Harbour yet. Since shoulder surgery we need to stay close to the states for physical therapy. We are sending most of our charters inquiries to a couple of the local charter guys. As for the discounts, we offer those just for those companies that we have an agreement with and most are repeat customers. Looks as if this marlin season is just going to be a tournament year. Wish all of you the very best and Happy Hoidays and a profitable New Year!

[SamFamAustin]

Merry Christmas to Reel Candy! I hope the shoulder gets better ... I guess the boat is over in Florida now. Sorry to bother y'all but I did see a post on one of my fishing boards and it caught my attention. I wish a very happy fishing season for you and lots of smiles and high-fives in the cockpit.
sammie

[Vision Quest]

I hear the local charter guys are having a hard time keeping the triple B's (banks, batelco, Bec) off their doorstep.


[QUOTE=Reel Candy;58257]Sam:
In answer to your post. We are sending most of our charters inquiries to a couple of the local charter guys.

[SamFamAustin]

I hear the local charter guys are having a hard time keeping the triple B's (banks, batelco, Bec) off their doorstep.

That's a tough one ... it is true, most of the sports fishing charter operations make their money later in the season when the fish are running better, and the rages are fewer. I bet they're hurting about now.

I guess you can work with a local charter to see if they have a good policy on an offshore trip. The reason is because many want a hefty deposit that usually isn't refundable ... most would rather keep your deposit for another trip in the future ... what you want is to look at the weather at 6 or 7 in the morning (or Cruiser Net time) and make the decision then, since the winter weather can be so rough and variable.

I have no idea how this works with the specific charter outfits in the Abacos, other than I heard they can pick you up at a local cay sometimes. I'm sure they'd love cash and splitting a half-day offshore between 4 people isn't too bad if you can swing that. Remember to tip for good service, as the crew usually isn't making much - and they'll be much more excited about cleaning and cutting your fish.

By the way, often the ladies aren't interested in chasing stinky fish first thing in the morning, and making up a crew of 2 to 4 can be a problem. Sometimes the charter folks can arrange for several parties to go "Dutch" on a trip ... I have always met the nicest, coolest people on such fishing trips. Try it sometime ... get an agreement ahead of time so you know everyone's expectations and you should have a blast. :)
sammie