Yes! Captain Owen Koch holds a US Coast Guard Captain's License (OUPV-Inland or “6-pack”). He carries vessel and general liability insurance. Capital Blues is a Virginia-based business operating under a DC business license in District waters, and holds a NPS Commercial Use Authorization to allow for pickup and drop off at Gravelly Point (US Park Service). Whichever guide you choose, you should always ask about their licensure and insurance in advance!

1. First and foremost, we are a fully legal, licensed, and insured small business. The same can't be said about everyone calling themselves a fishing guide these days. Whomever you chose as your guide, it is best to be sure they are a legitimate business with adequate licensure and insurance.

2. Boat type. Though fishing from a pontoon is somewhat unconventional, it allows us to accomodate more passengers than most charters, due to the larger deck layout. The side railing is also safer for small children than other boat types, which tend to have much lower freeboards. With a draft of just over a foot, it also enables your captain to reach parts of the river that most other charters can't, or won't even attempt to. 

3. Value. We are priced competitively because you work hard for your money, and getting overcharged sucks. We keep your costs low by investing strategically in the keys to landing big fish (quality tackle and preventive maintenance) and avoiding costly extras like boat stereo systems, flashy lights, custom paint jobs, and a plush interior cabin. If you want “champagne and caviar” on your fishing trip, this isn't the charter for you. Also, our “no fish, no pay” policy ensures you aren't spending your hard earned cash to get skunked. To our knowledge, no one else on the river offers this gaurantee.

4. Local guide, local knowledge. Captain Owen grew up in Arlington and has fished the Potomac River for four decades. His command of local river history is unparalleled in the guiding world. He brings a level of experience and local insight to your trip that can only be attained through decades of diligent study and practice out on the water. 

1. A Washington, DC fishing license (available at doee.dc.gov) for those age 16-64, along with valid form of ID.

2. Snacks and drinks. Bottled water is provided on board. Note: due to insurance reasons, we have a strict no-alcohol policy on the boat.

3. Clothing for the season. Hat, sunglasses, and rain gear are highly recommended.

4. Medications/EpiPens/Inhalers/Dramamine as required.

5. Cooler with ice for those planning to take home fish.

Gravelly Point Boat Ramp, just north of National Airport off the GW Parkway.

Blue Catfish are the primary target on our trips. Not only can they grow into the 60# and above range and be caught year-round, but as an invasive species they have decimated the native fish of the Potomac watershed. Removing these fish from the Potomac (per local government guidelines) not only makes for an exciting day of fishing, but is ecologically responsible and helps feed local homeless residents. 

If you are seeking other species of game fish, there are lots of other great guides in the area we can recommend who specialize in bass, carp, crappie, rockfish, and snakeheads.

We will be fishing from an 18' pontoon boat equipped with all US Coast Guard required safety gear (life jackets, fire extinguishers, signaling devices, first aid kit) and marine VHF radio. Your guide provides all rods, reels, terminal tackle, bait, and complimentary bottled water. 

This can be tricky; the boat can accomadate up to six passengers OR 750 pounds of passenger weight, but weight is usually the limiting factor.  For example, two adults and four small kids may fall well within this threshhold, but three large adults may max out the boat's passenger weight capacity. To ensure a safe and fun trip, please discuss your group composition with your guide when scheduling your trip.

Yes, absolutely! Fish cleaning is available, but please discuss with your captain before your trip if you would like to allocate time for this service.

Typically, all eating-sized invasive fish species (predominantly Blue Catfish and the occasional Flathead) will be kept during our trip, per Washington, D.C. DOEE guidelines, and whatever is not taken home by guests will be donated to local area homeless shelters.

We accept cash, credit card, and Venmo. 

We offer 10% discounts to military, veterans, and first responders, when booking directly though Capital Blues Fishing Charters.  

1. We require a $50 deposit to reserve your trip date. 

2. Your guide reserves the right to cancel/postpone a trip due to unsafe river conditions or extreme weather. In this case, your guide will work with you to either reschedule to a later date, or fully refund your deposit.

As we know, it's called “fishing”, not “catching”, for a reason. While getting skunked is rare, it does happen from time to time. Personally, I would not feel right taking someone's hard-earned money and not producing at least one fish for them. So, I have a “no fish, no pay” policy (minus deposit). If I don't put at least one fish in the boat for you, you will not be charged for the balance of your trip.