FAQ’s

How long has Captain Osborne been a fishing guide?

Tampa/St. Petersburg fishing guide Captain Wade Osborne has been guiding full-time since 1997. The decades he’s spent on the water has given him a solid understanding of tidal conditions and yearly fish patterns which in turn, enables him to provide his customers a superior fishing experience. Very few fishing guides provide Osborne’s level of customer service, expert instruction, and premium tackle to their clients.

How do I book a charter with Afishionado?

CALL/TEXT 813-286-3474 to avoid an online booking fee. NOTE: My online booking calendar doesn’t reflect all charter times available. Please contact me direct if a later start time better fits your schedule.

Afishionado offers inshore light tackle spin, fly and plug fishing year-round. I strongly suggest you reserve your charter as far in advance as possible to secure your preferred date. However, occasionally I do have last minute openings, so please don’t hesitate to call or text me to check on availability.

Which methods of payment are accepted?

Afishionado accepts Venmo, Zelle, all major credit/debit cards, and cash. NO CHECKS! A $200 deposit is required to confirm all reservations. Once you make a reservation, you will receive a receipt of deposit and an email confirmation with your charter date, departure time and the boat ramp address with a Google Maps link to your departure location. NOTE: The remaining balance is due on the morning of your charter, prior to departure. If you’re not paying your balance in cash, Venmo or Zelle, a 3% surcharge will be added.

What’s included in the charter?

A Florida fishing license for all passengers. Premium spin, fly and plug fishing tackle such as G-Loomis, Penn, Sage and Tibor. Live-bait, flies, artificial lures, ice, bottled drinking water and sunscreen lotion is also provided. I also fillet, bag, and ice your catch, should you decide to keep some fish for lunch or dinner.

What should I bring?

Bring a hat, polarized sunglasses and non-aerosol sunscreen. NOTE: Aerosol spray sunscreen is not allowed aboard Afishionado, because it will stain the boat’s upholstery. (Sunscreen lotion is provided.) You should also wear non-skid sandals or shoes and comfortable clothing. Also bring any food, snacks or additional beverages you would like. If you bring beer, canned beer only. Finally, don’t forget to bring a cooler if you plan on keeping some fish.

Can I take photos or shoot video during the charter?

Absolutely not! Posting on social media isn’t permitted during the charter either. I have a strict no photos or video policy aboard Afishionado and here’s why: I’ve been fishing these waters since 1997 and fortunately many of the areas I frequent, remain somewhat a secret. Some locations are surrounded by well-known landmarks, which if any were included in a photo would reveal my fishing spot. If you need to use your phone during the excursion, I will politely ask you to turn off your location services to prevent any geotagging.

Don’t worry, your memories will be preserved! Throughout the charter I will be taking high quality photos of you and your fishing party with the days catch. Post-charter I edit, crop, photoshop and send you beautiful images of your experience.

Photo Usage: All photos taken by the captain are the sole copyrights of Wade Osborne. Consenting to photos aboard Afishionado grants permission for your images to possibly be used on social media, in publications, advertising and promotions. Once you receive your photos from the days outing, you have my permission to use them anyway you like.

Your understanding and cooperation is greatly appreciated.

Is Captain Osborne a non-smoker?

Yes, he is. However, customers are allowed smoke cigarettes and cigars during their charter. I only ask that you don’t bring anything onboard that’s illegal or throw cigarette butts overboard.

Does Afishionado offer multi-boat and corporate charters?

Yes, Afishionado is a custom built, 24-foot center console Sheaffer boat that accommodates one to six people comfortably. Larger groups can be accommodated with the assistance of some of my guide associates. The earlier you book large groups, the greater the chance I will have enough qualified captains and boats available. My associate captains are extremely busy, so reserve early to insure I can accommodate you.

Cancellations and refunds.

All cancellations must be made seven days prior to the charter except for extenuating circumstances, or your deposit will be forfeited. Charters terminated prematurely by the client are not entitled to any refunds. Cancellations within 24 hours of the scheduled charter and no-shows at the time of the charter will be charged the full rate.

Occasionally, lousy weather may interfere with your charter date. In case of a weather event, I will do my absolute best to reschedule your charter if you have the flexibility. In the rare event that your schedule and mine do not coincide to reschedule, I will refund 100% of your deposit.

I reserve the right to cancel prior or during your charter due to severe weather or the threat of unsafe conditions, to which, you will receive a full or partial refund.

Customer safety is my utmost priority!