Getting Started
We stuck with our tried-and-true plan: grabbing biscuits and coffee from the McDonald's drive-thru. We arrived at the dock on time, and the check-in process was seamless. Prior to boarding the Jubilee—a 90-foot party boat—the captain gathered everyone together. This was the first time we’d had a pre-trip briefing like this, and I really liked it. He covered safety instructions, mentioned the onboard concessions, and gave us an update on sea conditions. Based on his report, I only took a quarter of a Dramamine and felt totally fine the entire trip.
A Family-Friendly Atmosphere
The captain also emphasized that Jubilee provides a family-oriented experience. While they sell beer at the concession stand, he specifically noted that "no hard liquors are allowed onboard." He added, "We want everyone to have fun, but let’s watch the language and behavior because we do have children on board." As the parent of an impressionable 9-year-old, I really appreciated this policy.
Dolphins and the "Assigned Seat" Catch
On the way to our first stop, we saw a dozen or so dolphins and some massive jellyfish. The captain and crew were awesome, pointing out the dolphins as we approached. We didn't book a dolphin-spotting tour, but that’s one of the perks of fishing in the Gulf! Of course, they can also be a downside; while we had no run-ins on this trip, the crew shared horror stories of dolphins stealing fish right off the line as passengers reel them in.
The only minor drawback I found was the "assigned seating." When you check in, you are given a specific fishing location. Most other charters we’ve used are first-come, first-served. We usually prefer to fish at the rear of the boat, but for this trip, we were stationed along the side. A deckhand mentioned that you can request the back when booking, though there are no guarantees.
Expert Captain and Crew
The captain of the Jubilee was fantastic. He stayed in constant communication with the deckhands and announced what types of fish were being caught over the intercom. Each time the action slowed down, he was ready to move us; we ended up hitting four different locations. As we headed back toward land, he even allowed parents to bring their little ones up to the cabin for a chance to "drive" the boat.
The Verdict
After unloading, we carried our catch next door to have it cleaned. We ended up keeping several ladyfish and a nice-sized porgy. Keeping with tradition, we stopped at a local "hook & cook" restaurant for a delicious lunch before heading back to the condo for a lazy afternoon at the beach.
Jubilee Deep-Sea Fishing was excellent. They offer a great family experience and a genuine chance to catch a boatload of fish. Be sure to give them a call if you are in the area!
