Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need any fishing experience?
Nope. Plenty of Shane's trips are first-timers and families. He'll set you up, show you what to do, and keep it relaxed. If you're an experienced angler, just tell Shane what you want to work on and he'll fish accordingly.
Should I book a 4-hour or a 6-hour trip?
A 4-hour trip is great for a quick morning, kids, or a first taste of the lake. A 6-hour trip gives more time to run water, work seasonal patterns, and learn more, a better fit if you're driving in or want to really dial it in. Not sure? Call or text Shane and he'll help you choose.
Do you provide rods, reels, and tackle?
Yes, everything's included. You fish from a fully rigged Phoenix bass boat with quality rods, reels, and tackle. The only thing you bring is your Alabama fishing license. Please leave personal tackle boxes at home.
Do I need a fishing license?
Yes. A valid Alabama fishing license is required and isn't included in the trip price. You can buy one online from Outdoor Alabama before your trip.
How many people can go?
Trips are for 1-2 anglers with Captain Shane. A 3rd person is +$149 and a follow boat for a bigger group is +$200, both paid on fishing day.
Can kids and beginners come?
Absolutely, trips are family-friendly and Shane loves getting kids on their first bass. Beginners are welcome and so are serious anglers; he matches the day to who's on the boat.
What lakes do you guide on?
Lake Guntersville is the home water, plus Weiss Lake, Neely Henry Lake, and Logan Martin Lake. Trips draw anglers from Guntersville, Arab, Boaz, Albertville, Huntsville, Birmingham, and across North Alabama.
What's the best time of year for bass fishing here?
Honestly, there's good bass fishing on Guntersville year-round. Spring and fall are classic, summer ledge and grass fishing can be excellent, and winter produces big fish for anglers who put in the time. Tell Shane when you can come and he'll fish the pattern that's working.
Can I book a bass fishing lesson instead of a regular trip?
Yes. Shane offers a full bass class (about 6 hours) focused on teaching you how to break down water, pick baits, and read the lake, not just catch a few fish. It's a great fit if you want to get better, not just get bit.
Do you offer electronics and fish-finder instruction?
Yes. Shane does hands-on electronics lessons on your boat, forward-facing sonar, side and down imaging, 2D sonar, mapping, and settings. There's a 3-hour minimum at $99/hour. It's one of the fastest ways to start finding fish on your own.
What should I bring?
Your fishing license, weather-appropriate clothing and rain gear, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and food and drinks (no alcohol per USCG rules). Everything else is covered.
How do deposits and payments work?
A $100 deposit reserves your date (paid online via PayPal). It's not the full trip price, the balance is due to Shane on fishing day. Deposits are non-refundable but transferable within the same calendar year.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Safety comes first. If conditions aren't safe to fish, Shane will work with you to reschedule and your deposit stays good.
Where do we meet?
Shane confirms the launch with you when you book, based on the lake and conditions. Call or text (256) 744-5185 with any questions.
