How do you protect yourself

Capin' Dan · 01-22-2003, 12:38 AM

Four of us a planning a trip to Costa Rica for some Marlin and tuna. As the time grows near for us to send in our Deposit I'm realizing that we don't know this guy from Adam. How do we keep from getting the royal Sc****ng.

This trip requires payment in full 45 days prior to the trip and $500 for a deposit.

Have any of you did this kind of trip before? How did you handle the $$.

Mr. Fisherman · 01-22-2003, 07:08 AM

When I first read this I was thinking, Chastity belt! [img]graemlins/eek13.gif[/img]

But in all seriousness I think I'd pay with a Visa so I could dispute the payment if there were a problem and take a custom hand made fish whacker/arbitrator just in case.

Ask for a list of references from the captain and call them. You will likely be fine as it would be difficult to stay in business without repeat clients but you are wise to speculate.
You may want to call a travel agency too. They might have some tips...
Hope this helps....

Pitch Pocket · 01-22-2003, 07:20 AM

Not in Costa Rica, but I have in Kona. I've changed my opinion of certain skippers after meeting them face to face and actually seeing their boat.

I think the best way is to keep your money in your pocket and not buy your trip until you arrive. Check the docks for returning boats and their catch. Talk to their customers getting off the boat. Pick your captain based upon your personal review of his performance not his website. Prices are generally more negotiable at the dock too.

I really doubt that there is a waiting list for trips down there. If you need the comfort of a reserved trip, call Andy Betnar and book with a local guy that we all know can catch fish and is an honest dealer. He guides in Costa Rica in the winter.