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Before you book: 10 checks

Summary only, last verified Oct 4, 2026. The agency's own regulations control. Not legal advice.

Last verified Oct 4, 2026

Print this or keep it on your phone. Every captain should be able to answer these before you pay anything.

1. Ohio waters: is the captain on ODNR's public list, and will the boat show the guide decal? Ohio guide boats show ODNR's decal inside the lower-left corner of the front windshield (or on the stern, upper left, if there's no windshield). Ohio's list is opt-in, so if the name isn't there, ask to see the license. Search the list
2. Coast Guard credential. ODNR notes that the Coast Guard requires a license of everyone taking passengers for hire on the Great Lakes. The OUPV ("six-pack") endorsement covers uninspected boats carrying six or fewer passengers. Ask to see it.
3. The boat and the head count. How long is the boat, and how many anglers can it take? A boat carrying more than six passengers, at least one of them paying, has to be a Coast Guard-inspected small passenger vessel.
4. What's included. Rods, tackle, bait, fish cleaning, and whether you bring food and drinks.
5. The restroom. Is there one on board? For a long trip, it matters.
6. Weather and cancellations. Who decides to cancel, how late, and what happens to your money.
7. Deposit terms in writing. How much, when it's due, and when it's refundable. Get it by text or email.
8. Pay with something traceable. A card, PayPal or a check leaves a record. Be wary of gift cards, wire-only or crypto-only payment.
9. Licenses for every angler. Which state's waters, which license, and can the captain sell it? Which license?
10. Fish cleaning. Does the captain clean the catch, is there a charge, and where?

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