We all want the best charter experience, and most charter captains do an amazing job of providing you with the best experience possible. An important element in a successful trip is knowing what you are looking for and then choosing accordingly. Here are some of the considerations:.

Location: Some companies are right in Boston Harbour, some are nearby, and others are a half-hour to an hour from Boston. Compare the location of the charter and determine how far you are willing to travel.

Capacity: The number of anglers that can go on a charter is limited by a number of factors, like the captain's licence, boat size, and general charter company policy. Some companies have a fixed rate for a specific number of people and then charge extra for each additional person.

Pickup: Find out if the charter company can pick you up from your hotel, business, or home. Some charter companies will pick you up in downtown Boston or another location by boat, and many charge a fee for that. 

Area Fished: Clearly understand what areas are fished and how far the charter captain is willing to travel to good locations. Some charters fish in the inner harbour, outer harbour, islands, or offshore. Someday, charters may go all the way to Stellwagen Banks.

Cost: Know exactly what the charter will cost. Some charters charge a fixed rate for the boat no matter how many anglers are there, and others charge by person. Although tackle and bait are included by most charters, some may charge you for some baits. Most charters charge 15%–20% tips for the crew. Some charters let you extend the trip for an hourly fee.

Live bait or lures: It is hard to beat live bait when you fish for large stripers. Find out if live bait is included and if there is a limit. Some charters offer them in season only, and some put a limit on the number of live baits that are free.   

Light tackle or traditional: Some charter captains specialise in light spinning tackle or fly fishing equipment, while others use traditional methods. Light tackle offers more of a thrill but can be more difficult for the beginner. 

No-Fish Guarantees: Some fishing trips result in an abundance of fish being caught. Other times, fewer fish are caught, and that is all part of the fishing. It can happen that some anglers may end up without a fish. Some captains give various “catch guarantees” with half-off trips and other incentives.

Travel time versus fishing time: When you charter for a number of hours, find out what the actual fishing time vs. travel time to the location is.

Tips and other expenses: Most charter companies charge 15%–20% in tips for the crew. Other expenses may occur for cleaning the fish, some special bait, and drinks.

Beverages: Many charter captains allow alcohol on the boat, and others don’t. 

Children and pets: Some charter captains encourage children and pets onboard, and others don’t. Some charter companies have special charters for children. 

Anglers with Disabilities: Find out about the disability policy and capabilities of the charter. Some boats can accommodate wheelchairs; others are too small.