Fishing Charter FAQs – What You Need to Know

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About Our Melbourne, Melbourne Beach & Sebastian Inlet FAQs

These FAQs come directly from real charter guests from Melbourne, Melbourne Beach, Sebastian Inlet, and Vero Beach.

Whether you're chasing Snook, Redfish, Trout, Tarpon, Jacks or seasonal species, this guide explains exactly what to bring, how weather affects the trip, what licenses you need (we provide them), and how gear and fish cleaning work.

Ready to book your inshore or lagoon fishing trip? See our Rates page or Melbourne fishing charters.

Why Fish with Captain Don?
Dec 8, 2025

Answer based on real trips from Melbourne, Melbourne Beach & Sebastian Inlet.

For over thirty years, Captain Don has spent his life fishing the waters of Melbourne and Melbourne Beach — two of Florida’s most productive inshore and nearshore fisheries. These are the waters he calls home, and he knows every grass flat, channel, creek mouth, and tarpon highway like a seasoned local guide.

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Do I need a fishing license?
Jun 10, 2016

Answer based on real trips from Melbourne, Melbourne Beach & Sebastian Inlet.

No, Captain Don’s fishing license covers everyone on board.

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Do I need to bring my own gear?
Jun 10, 2016

Answer based on real trips from Melbourne, Melbourne Beach & Sebastian Inlet.

No. All bait and tackle is provided, fishing poles are provided. Please feel free though to bring your favorite rod and reel.

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Do I need to bring my own food?
Jun 10, 2016

Answer based on real trips from Melbourne, Melbourne Beach & Sebastian Inlet.

Yes. Please pack your own lunch and whatever drinks you would like to bring. Water is provided, a cooler filled with ice will be on board.

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What else do I have to bring?
Jun 10, 2016

Answer based on real trips from Melbourne, Melbourne Beach & Sebastian Inlet.

Sunscreen and a positive attitude is all you need.

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What should I wear?
Jun 10, 2016

Answer based on real trips from Melbourne, Melbourne Beach & Sebastian Inlet.

A hat or visor and Polarized Sunglasses is a MUST. Breathable, lightweight clothing and light colors, long sleeves are good to keep sun exposure to a minimum. Soft soled shoes with a non-marking sole preferred.

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Do I have to an experienced fisherman?
Jun 10, 2016

Answer based on real trips from Melbourne, Melbourne Beach & Sebastian Inlet.

Certainly not! There is ample opportunity for everyone to catch a fish whether you’re a novice or have spent your life on the water. Captain Don is more than happy to share tips and techniques!!

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Can I keep the fish I catch?
Jun 10, 2016

Answer based on real trips from Melbourne, Melbourne Beach & Sebastian Inlet.

Yes!

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If I keep the fish I catch, can the Captain fillet it for me?
Jun 10, 2016

Answer based on real trips from Melbourne, Melbourne Beach & Sebastian Inlet.

Yes!

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Where will we launch the boat?
Jun 10, 2016

Answer based on real trips from Melbourne, Melbourne Beach & Sebastian Inlet.

Launch arrangements will be made over the phone to best accommodate you.

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