Good to Know

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know before your St. John fishing charter.

Good to Know

Questions, Answered.

Still curious? Call or text us at any time.

How do I book a charter?+

Book directly through FareHarbor using any Book Online button on our website. Choose your charter and available date, complete your booking, and receive instant confirmation. You can also call or text us if you have questions before booking.

When is my booking confirmed?+

Bookings completed through FareHarbor are confirmed instantly — no need to wait for a reply from the captain. Sending an inquiry is not a confirmed reservation; it sends us your questions so we can follow up personally.

When is my card charged?+

Your card information is held to secure your reservation. Your card is charged after the trip, not at booking. Card details are submitted through FareHarbor's secure booking process, not our website's inquiry form. You still receive instant booking confirmation by email.

Are there booking fees?+

FareHarbor adds a small service fee to your booking total for its secure booking platform. The fee and full total are shown at checkout before you complete your reservation. Your card information is held to secure the reservation, and your card is charged after the trip.

How does the booking confirmation work?+

As soon as you complete your booking, FareHarbor emails you a confirmation with your trip details, meeting information, and a link to view or modify your reservation. If it hasn't arrived within a few minutes, check your spam or junk folder. We'll also be in touch before your trip.

Are kids allowed?+

Kids 5 years and older are welcome aboard. Please call to inquire about younger children — we'll work with you when we can.

What is your cancellation policy?+

Cancellation details are confirmed at the time of booking. If you have questions about the current policy, call or text us before completing your FareHarbor booking.

What happens if the weather is bad?+

Weather is discussed during a pre-trip call the day before the charter and reevaluated the morning of the trip if needed.

What about drinks and alcohol onboard?+

We provide bottled water and a cooler with ice. You're welcome to bring additional beverages if you like. If bringing alcoholic beverages, please no glass or hard liquor.

What sunscreen should we bring?+

Reef-safe sunscreen only — no spray sunscreen, please. It protects St. John's reefs and keeps the boat's deck safe.

How many guests can you take?+

Up to 4 guests for the snorkel/fish combo and up to 3 anglers for fishing-only trips.

Do you fish in Virgin Islands National Park waters?+

No. Tail Runner Charters does not fish in National Park waters.

Can we keep the fish we catch?+

Tail Runner primarily practices catch and release. Tarpon are always released. If guests catch a legal food fish and want to keep it, it can be filleted for them.

Can beginners book a trip?+

Yes. All skill levels are welcome on spin and fly trips. Captain Dustin is happy to coach first-timers throughout the day.

Is fuel included?+

Yes — fuel is included on every charter. No fuel surcharge.

Is gratuity expected?+

A 20% gratuity on the charter price is customary and appreciated.

What should we bring?+

Reef-safe sunscreen (no spray), a hat, polarized sunglasses, sun-protective clothing, snacks, and lunch for 6-hour or 8-hour trips.

What safety equipment is onboard?+

USCG-approved life jackets are aboard for every passenger — kids under 13 wear them while the boat is moving — along with a stocked marine first-aid kit. Captain Dustin holds a USCG Master license and is experienced in handling minor injuries and seasickness.

Ready to fish St. John?

Book a private inshore fishing charter, fly fishing trip, tarpon mission, or snorkel/fish combo with Tail Runner Charters.

Book a Charter

Book through FareHarbor · Instant confirmation

Your card information is held to secure your reservation. Your card is charged after the trip, not at booking.

Call · +1 (817) 879-1869Text the Captain