Wellfleet Fishing & Lobstering FAQs

Everything you need to know about your Cape Cod charter excursion, from booking logistics to what happens to your catch.

Plan Your Perfect Day on the Water

Whether you are joining us for a signature Combo Charter or heading out to pull traps on a Lobster excursion, we want your time on Cape Cod Bay to be the highlight of your summer.

To ensure a smooth departure from the Wellfleet Town Marina, we’ve compiled the most common questions regarding our trips, safety policies, and “Trap to Table” offerings.

Please note that while a credit card is required to secure your reservation, all final payments are due in cash at the conclusion of your charter.

Browse the categories below to prepare for your day on the water with Billingsgate Charters.

Smiling young girl holding a big lobster

Everything you need to know about reserving your spot at the Wellfleet Town Marina.

  • Where are you located, and where should we park? We are located at the Wellfleet Town Marina, 255 Commercial Street, Wellfleet, MA 02667. Parking is free. When you arrive on the pier, please call or text Captain Dave at 781-706-0145. Please arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your scheduled charter so we can depart on time.
  • How do I check availability for a specific date? All available and unavailable dates are listed on our live calendar. Select your preferred date, fill out the form on the Book a Charter page, and an automatic email will notify us of your request. We will then call you to confirm your reservation; a valid phone number is required. If you don’t hear back, please call Captain Dave directly at 781-706-0145. No charter is booked until confirmed with a credit card.
  • Can I pay for my trip with a credit card? No. We do not accept credit cards for final payment. A credit card is required only to secure your reservation. Your card will not be charged, and full payment in cash is due at the end of your trip.
  • Do you take a deposit when I provide my credit card? No. Your card is for confirmation only and is only charged if you cancel within 72 hours of your trip ($250 fee) or fail to show up on the day (full charter amount).
  • If the trip is canceled, do we lose our deposit? No. If Billingsgate Charters cancels your trip for any reason, your card will not be charged. Charges only apply if you cancel late or fail to show.
  • Does the six-person limit include infants and small children? Yes. USCG regulations require infants and small children to be counted as passengers. Our maximum capacity is six passengers per trip.

What to bring (and what to leave behind) for a safe, comfortable day on Cape Cod Bay.

  • Do I need a fishing license? No. You will fish under the captain’s professional permits and licenses.
  • Do you supply fishing equipment? We provide all fishing equipment and tackle. Please leave your own gear at home, as we use specific techniques and top-quality equipment for the best results.
  • Do you provide life jackets? Yes, we carry USCG-approved life jackets for every passenger. Children under 12 must wear a life jacket at all times while underway.
  • What should we bring on our trip? Dress in layers. We recommend a light jacket, hooded sweatshirt, light rain gear, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a camera. Feel free to bring lunch (sandwiches work best), snacks, and drinks in plastic or paper cartons—no glass.
  • What should we NOT bring? Please do not bring black-soled footwear, glass containers, or personal coolers. We provide two large Yeti coolers for your catch and your food/drinks. Please leave your cooler in your vehicle for the ride home.
  • What is your alcohol and drug policy? Beer and wine are allowed in moderation; no hard liquor is permitted. We have a ZERO TOLERANCE drug policy in accordance with USCG regulations. Smoking is not permitted on board.
  • Do you go out if the weather looks bad? We operate in light rain and cloudy conditions. We do not go out in torrential rain, lightning, high-wind warnings, or other USCG weather advisories. The captain makes all final safety decisions.
  • Will I get seasick on your boat? Seasickness affects everyone differently. If you are prone to motion sickness, take preventative medication an hour prior to your trip. The boat is stable, and the captain chooses the smoothest possible routes.
  • Do you have a bathroom on board? Yes, we have a fully enclosed head (bathroom) on board.

Details on our signature Lobster and Combo Charters.

  • Tell me about your Lobster Charters? Our Lobster Charters take you to our traps in Cape Cod Bay to observe a Commercial New England Lobsterman hauling traps and explaining sustainable harvesting.
  • Can we participate while you pull the traps? Yes. Guests are welcome to join us at the rail and banding table to participate and learn, though safety always comes first.
  • How many lobsters do we get to take home? Each guest is guaranteed one (1) live lobster at the end of the trip. Additional lobsters may be purchased at our “boat price,” typically $3–$5/pound lower than local markets.
  • How long are the trips? Lobster Charters run approximately 3 hours. Combo Charters run for 5 hours (2.5 hours fishing, 1.5 hours lobstering, plus travel time).
  • Do you offer shorter trips? Yes, we offer a 4-hour Sport Fishing Charter for $650, provided scheduling permits. We do not offer a 4-hour Combo Charter, as 5 hours is necessary for a quality experience in both activities.

Fresh Cape Cod lobster direct from our boat to your home.

  • Can I buy lobsters from you? Yes. We sell lobsters 7 days a week from June through November. By cutting out the middleman, we sell direct from our traps to your table at the lowest prices.
  • What is “Trap to Table”? Trap to Table is our mission-driven business focused on getting fresh catch directly to consumers. We sell live lobsters and freshly made, flash-frozen lobster casseroles.
  • Can we order casseroles and live lobsters online? Yes. We provide an order form on our website where you can place your order for pickup.

Ready to Start Your Wellfleet Tradition?

Whether you’re looking for a 5-hour Combo, a 3-hour Lobster tour, or a full day of Sport Fishing, your adventure begins in Wellfleet Harbor. With our professional crew and family-friendly atmosphere, dates for the 2026 season are filling up fast

Check Availability & Book Now