What to Bring
A short list of what to pack — and everything we already have covered onboard Ballyhoo.
Bring
- +Reef-safe sunscreen only (no spray)
- +Hat
- +Polarized sunglasses, recommended
- +Sun-protective clothing
- +Snacks
- +Lunch for 8-hour and 6-hour charters
- +Additional beverages if desired
Included
- +Bottled water
- +Cooler with ice
- +Drinks available onboard
- +Fuel included
- +Light tackle spin rods & reels
- +Shimano Saragosa reels
- +Nomad rods
- +Orvis Helios fly rods (8, 9, 10 wt)
- +Hatch & Tibor fly reels
- +Flies, lures, jigs, bait & tackle
- +Snorkel gear on combo trips
Bring your own setup if you prefer.
Flexible Pickup Locations
Pickup options depend on trip, weather, and where your group is staying. Common departure points:
Respect for the Fishery
At Tail Runner Charters, we're committed to responsible fishing and protecting the beautiful waters of St. John. All tarpon are strictly catch-and-release only, and are released safely to minimize stress. All other fish are also released quickly, unless you chose to keep a legal food fish.
Get the photo, release the fish. We make fish photography quick and responsible, minimizing time out of the water so your catch can be safely released to swim another day.
We ask that all guests use reef safe sunscreen only - no spray sunscreen - to help protect our coral reefs and preserve St. John's marine environment for future generations.
We do not fish inside Virgin Islands National Park waters.
Policies & FAQ
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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 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