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Fishing Days & Introductions to Fishing Basics

Bonnies love to FISH – anytime, anywhere, for anything!


We are lucky to live in one of the most diverse and productive fishing destinations in the world. From our backyards, we can enjoy:


  • Flats & Backcountry: bonefish, tarpon, permit, snook, redfish
  • Reefs: snapper, grouper, and an endless variety of “dinner” fish
  • Offshore: sailfish, tuna, king mackerel, amberjack, swordfish, marlin, and mahi-mahi


Fish Responsibly

Whether you’re with a licensed guide or fishing on your own, make sure you’re legal — carry the proper license, follow seasons, and respect size and bag limits. If you’re catch-and-release fishing, remember our mantra: “Keep ’Em Wet.” [Click here for best practices: https://www.keepfishwet.org/tips] The less time a fish spends out of the water, the better its chance of survival — and the better our fishery remains for everyone.

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Opportunities to Get Out There

Bonnies regularly organize fishing days and special trips for members. These are announced at our monthly meetings, through our newsletter Tight Lines, and right here on the website.

Learn the Basics

New to fishing or just want to sharpen your skills? We occasionally offer introductory classes and educational talks — a fun way to learn about tackle, knots, casting, and conservation. Reservations are required, so check the Events for dates and sign-up details.

Fishing Charters

The Ocean Reef Charter Desk, located right out front of the Burgee Shop, is your one-stop resource for booking a day on the water. Whether you’re looking for an offshore adventure chasing sailfish and mahi, a reef trip for snapper and grouper, or a quiet backcountry outing for bonefish and tarpon, the Charter Desk can pair you with one of Ocean Reef’s professional captains.


They can help with:

  • Selecting the right type of trip for your target species
  • Matching you with a licensed captain and boat that fit your group size
  • Providing information on timing, tides, and what’s biting
  • Handling all booking details for a seamless experience


Location: Out front of the Burgee Shop

Phone: 305-367-5931

Email: charterdesk@oceanreef.com

Guided Fishing Cancellation Policy


When you reserve a guide or captain, they are committing their time and turning away other clients — so please respect their schedule.


Cancellations: If you cancel within 7 days of your reservation, you may be charged up to the full amount of the trip.

Exceptions: You will not be charged if:

You have a true emergency, or

The guide/captain decides that weather or conditions pose a safety risk or would make fishing unproductive.


When in doubt, communicate early with the Charter Desk or your guide — they appreciate advance notice whenever possible.

Fishing as a Guest


What fun — you’ve been invited by a friend to join her on her boat for a day of fishing!


Etiquette Basics

Think of it like being invited to someone’s home or vacation getaway:


Ask Ahead: Find out what you can bring — food, beverages, or your own fishing gear.

Offer to Share Costs: Ask if you can chip in for fuel or paid crew. If the answer is no, offer to tip the crew instead.

Be Prepared: Bring whatever you’ll need to stay comfortable — sunscreen, hat, rain jacket, and anti-nausea meds or crackers if you’re prone to motion sickness.

Be on Time: Boats leave the dock on schedule — don’t keep the crew or fellow anglers waiting.

Be a Good Sport: Stay positive, enjoy the day, and celebrate everyone’s catches.


Following these simple courtesies ensures you’ll be remembered as a great guest — and invited back for the next adventure!

Useful Fishing Items

Your guide or captain will supply the rods, reels, and tackle — but you’ll want to bring a few personal essentials to stay comfortable and prepared:

Must-Haves

  • Polarized Sunglasses – crucial for spotting fish and cutting glare
  • Sunscreen – reef-safe if possible
  • Hat with a Brim – plus a strap or clip (it can get windy!)
  • Quick-Dry Clothing – long-sleeved shirt and slacks/shorts
  • Rain Gear – a hood is your best friend in a sudden squall
  • Tissues & Baggie – for all those “just in case” moments
  • Camera or Phone – and don’t forget to email your best shots to Bonefishbonnies1@gmail.com so we can share in the fun!

Nice-to-Haves

  • Sun gloves
  • Bandana or gator for sun protection
  • Bug spray
  • Your favorite snack(s)
  • A journal to record the day’s adventures

Conservation Reminder

Bring along a proper catch-and-release attitude:


“Keep ’Em Wet!” Fish removed from the water — even for just 20 seconds — have much higher mortality rates. This one simple step helps protect our fishery for the future.