What to Bring
A short list of what to pack — and everything we already have covered onboard the Tail Runner.
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
Tail Runner is built around responsible fishing and respect for St. John's waters. Tarpon are always catch-and-release — unhooked, kept in the water for photos, and released safely.
- +All tarpon are catch-and-release
- +Tarpon stay in the water for photos
- +Other fish are usually released quickly
- +Keep a legal food fish — we'll fillet it
- +No fishing in National Park waters
- +No spray sunscreen — reef-safe only
Policies & FAQ
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.
Can we bring alcohol?+
Yes — alcohol is allowed. Please, no glass and no hard liquor.
What about drinks onboard?+
Drinks are available onboard, along with bottled water and a cooler with ice. You're welcome to bring additional beverages if you'd like.
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.
Are pets allowed?+
No pets, please.
What is your cancellation policy?+
Cancellation details are confirmed at the time of booking. Reach out and we'll walk you through the current policy before you reserve.
Ready to fish St. John?
Book a private inshore fishing charter, fly fishing trip, tarpon mission, or snorkel/fish combo with Tail Runner Charters.