Fishing Charter Info - Punta Gorda FLorida

Transportation

Our local airport is Punta Gorda Airport (PGD), located about 13 miles north of Burnt Store Marina. It offers low-cost, nonstop flights to over 50 destinations via Allegiant and Sun Country Airlines. Recent additions include nonstop service to New Orleans (MSY) starting November 21, 2025, and a new route to Trenton, NJ, announced November 18, 2025. Visit flypgd.com for details.

For other airlines, the nearest options are Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers (41 miles south) or Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) (71 miles north). Punta Gorda has reliable Uber service, along with rental cars and taxis available at airports and around town.

Marina Address & Departure Dock

We depart from the fuel dock next to the harbormaster’s office at Safe Harbor Burnt Store:

3192 Matecumbe Key Rd, Punta Gorda, FL 33955

VHF Channel: 16

Free parking is available in the large lot south of the harbormaster’s office.

Accommodations

Punta Gorda offers waterfront hotels in downtown. Recommended options include:

• SpringHill Suites by Marriott Punta Gorda Harborside (formerly Four Points by Sheraton): Highly rated (4.5/5 on Tripadvisor), with a tiki bar and outdoor restaurant.

• The Wyvern Hotel: Luxury option (4.5/5 rated), centrally located with a rooftop bar and restaurant. Note: Undergoing renovations post-hurricanes; no pool available. Visit thewyvernhotel.com.

Search more on Tripadvisor: Punta Gorda Hotels. For stays near the marina, check VRBO for homes or condos in Burnt Store Marina: VRBO Burnt Store Marina. Nearby alternatives: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Punta Gorda.

Dining Recommendations

Top spots in Punta Gorda (updated 2025):

1. Laishley Crab House: Fresh seafood like Alaskan King Crab and oysters. Open Sun-Thu 11am-9pm, Fri-Sat 11am-10pm. Service animals only. laishleycrabhouse.com.

2. TT’s Tiki Bar: Waterfront with cocktails, live entertainment, and bites like tacos and salads. Open Sun-Thu 11am-10pm, Fri-Sat 11am-12am; Happy Hour Mon-Fri 12-6pm. ttstikibar.com.

3. Fishermen’s Village Restaurants: Options like Village Brewhouse (casual seafood/American) or The Pier (Hawaiian-inspired). fishermensvillage.com/dine.

4. Carmelo’s Italian Ristorante: Top-rated Italian; reservations recommended.

At the marina:

• Cass Cay Restaurant: Lunch/dinner with waterfront views. Open Mon-Sat 11:30am-8:30pm, Sun 9am-8:30pm (brunch $12.95). casscayrestaurant.com.

• Trading Post: Mornings for coffee, breakfast sandwiches, and convenience items. Open Sun-Thu 7:30am-7pm, Fri-Sat 7:30am-8pm.

Public restrooms are next to the Trading Post.

What to Bring

We provide all bait, tackle, ice, and water. Recommended: polarized sunglasses, hat/visor, sunscreen, snacks, and a camera (with a ziplock bag for your phone). Wear comfortable, non-marking shoes with good traction—flip-flops or Crocs aren’t ideal for fighting big fish. Pack rain gear and layers (cooler on the water, especially winter/spring). Cans only for beverages; no hard liquor or unprescribed drugs. Keep items compact due to limited storage.

Will I Get Seasick?

Charlotte Harbor is protected by barrier islands, more like a calm lake than open ocean. Rough chop is possible, so if prone to motion sickness, take medication as a precaution.

Is There a Restroom Onboard?

No head on the boat. We’ll motor to nearby facilities as needed.

Weather & Cancellations Policy

Safety first—we check forecasts 24 and 12 hours before departure and contact you if issues arise. View local marine forecast: NOAA Charlotte Harbor. No fishing in electrical storms; if delayed, we’ll extend if possible or prorate fares for unrecoverable time over 1 hour.

Getting Into the Marina – Departure Dock

Enter via the main gate on Burnt Store Road. At security, mention you’re with Reel Rich Fishing Charters for a day pass. Past the gate: left at first stop sign, left at next stop. park right at the end gate. We depart from the fuel dock by the flagpole.

Shore Lunch

On full-day tarpon/shark charters (12hr), break at harbor spots like:

• Cabbage Key: Island restaurant/bar; boat access only. cabbagekey.com.

• Eagle Grille & Miller’s Dockside: Waterfront at Boca Grande Marina. Open daily. eaglegrille.com.

• Cayo Costa State Park: Beach/shelling; open daily 8am-sunset (limited services: no ferry/tram/overnight). $2/person fee. floridastateparks.org/park/Cayo-Costa.

Stops depend on fish location.

We Love Kids!

No extra charge for kids 8 and under. Advise us at booking for proper life jacket. Children 6 and under must wear a PFD at all times.

Payment

Cash, checks, or cards (Visa, Mastercard, AMEX, Discover) with 3% fee.

Fishing License

Covered by our permit—no need for a Florida saltwater license.

Our goal is a memorable, safe experience. For special requests or questions, contact Capt Rich at 607-327-0221.