Everything You Need to Know

Frequently Asked Questions

Whether it’s your first trip with Capt. Jake or you’re returning for another day on the water, here you’ll find answers that will help you know what to expect before you arrive.

Available start times vary by date and trip length. When you book online, you’ll choose from the available time slots for your trip. Your confirmation will include the meeting time and departure details.

ou can cancel or modify your booking free of charge up to 7 days before your trip. Cancellations or changes made within 7 days of the trip, or failure to show up, will result in forfeiture of 100% of the amount paid.

Weather is part of spending time on the lake, and not every change in the forecast means a trip will be canceled. If Captain Jake determines conditions are unsafe, he’ll contact you about the trip and next steps. Otherwise, the standard cancellation policy applies.

Meeting locations vary by lake. Your exact departure details will be included with your booking so you know where to meet Captain Jake and when to arrive.

  • Lake Wylie:
    899 Nivens Landing Drive
    Fort Mill, SC 29708
  • Lake Wateree:
    4361 River Road
    Ridgeway, SC 29130
  • Lake Norman:
    TBD

If you have any questions before your trip, don’t hesitate to contact Jake.

Your private cruise includes:

  • 2025 24-foot Godfrey Tritoon
  • Captain Jake, a USCG 25-Ton Master Captain
  • Life jackets for all guests
  • Ice-filled cooler
  • Bluetooth sound system
  • Flexible itinerary built around your group

Depending on the trip, your day can include cruising, swimming, tubing, relaxing and other recreational time on the water.

Bring anything you’ll want for a comfortable day on the water, including sunscreen, sunglasses, towels, swimsuits and any food or drinks you’d like to have with you. An ice-filled cooler is provided onboard.

If you’re planning to swim or tube, come dressed for it and bring a dry change of clothes if you’d like.

Your day can be as active or relaxed as you want. Depending on the lake, trip length and conditions, you can spend your time cruising, swimming, tubing, relaxing, stopping at recreational areas or simply enjoying time on the water with your group.

Because these are private trips, the day can be shaped around what your group wants to do.

Absolutely. Gratuities are never required, but they’re always appreciated.

If you feel Captain Jake provided a great experience, a tip of 20% or more is customary.

Yes. Beer, hard seltzers and wine are welcome aboard. Hard liquor isn’t permitted on the lake, but there are several waterfront restaurants and bars where we can stop for a drink during your trip if you’d like.

You’ll cruise aboard a 2025 24-foot Godfrey Tritoon powered by a Yamaha 150 outboard.

It offers comfortable, spacious seating, a bimini top for shade, a Bluetooth sound system, an ice-filled cooler and an aft ladder for easy access in and out of the water. It’s set up for relaxed cruising, swimming, tubing and private days on the lake.

Maximum number of guests is 6 (plus your Captain).

Absolutely! If you’re having a great day on the water and would like to fish a little longer, Jake will do his best to accommodate your request.

Trip extensions are subject to availability and the day’s booking schedule.

Yes. Carolina Lake Cruises welcomes families and guests of all ages.

Life jackets are provided onboard, and Captain Jake works to keep the day comfortable, safe and enjoyable for families with children.

What Guests Are Saying

Posted on Google Google
Alleijah Williams
203 days ago
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Best day ever! First timer! Captainjake was amazing, loved the boat 10/10. Great communication skills, great vibes. Honestly was a good day to be in on the water.
Posted on Google Google
Tim Quinn
761 days ago
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Captain Jake’s Guide Service exceeded all expectations during our recent trip on Lake Wylie. From the moment we met Captain Jake, it was clear we were in for a memorable experience. His warm, friendly demeanor instantly put my kids at ease, and his passion for fishing was evident in everything he did. What was supposed to be a fun morning on the lake quickly turned into an in-depth, hands-on fishing lesson that my kids will remember for a long time. Captain Jake’s exceptional ability to connect with young anglers transformed our trip into a four-hour educational adventure. Right off the bat, Captain Jake engaged the kids by explaining the basics of fishing, from setting up their rods to properly baiting hooks. He didn’t just hand them rods and let them fish — he took the time to teach them the nuances of the craft. His patience was unparalleled, and he ensured that each child had a turn with personalized attention, guiding them through every step of the process. For my kids, who had never been on a guided fishing trip before, this was incredibly empowering. They weren’t just reeling in fish; they were actively learning the techniques, and that made the experience so much more meaningful. Captain Jake’s knowledge of Lake Wylie is nothing short of remarkable. He knew exactly where to take us to find the best fishing spots. It was like he had a sixth sense for locating the prime areas where fish were biting. Throughout the trip, he shared interesting facts about the lake, its ecosystem, and the various species of fish that inhabit it. This wasn’t just a fishing trip — it was an educational journey that gave my kids a newfound appreciation for the sport and the environment. What impressed me the most was how well Captain Jake balanced fun with education. The kids were laughing, joking, and having an absolute blast, all while learning valuable fishing skills. He made sure the entire experience was interactive and engaging, often quizzing them on what they’d learned and encouraging them to ask questions. Every moment felt like a fun challenge, and the sense of accomplishment they had after catching their fish was amazing to see. Another standout feature of Captain Jake’s service was his preparation and attention to detail. The boat was fully stocked with top-of-the-line equipment, and he made sure everything was in perfect working order before we even hit the water. Safety was clearly a priority, but he handled it in such a seamless way that it never felt like a chore or a restriction. He gave clear, easy-to-follow instructions that made everyone feel confident and comfortable on the water. It’s also worth noting the pride Captain Jake takes in his work. You could tell that this isn’t just a job for him; it’s a passion. That passion came through in every aspect of the trip, from his enthusiastic explanations to his willingness to stay out on the water longer than planned so the kids could get just one more fish. Not once did we feel rushed or like we were just another group of clients. Captain Jake made us feel like we were his top priority, and that kind of service is rare these days. By the end of the trip, my kids were already asking when we could come back for another round with Captain Jake. They didn’t just catch fish that day — they came away with a genuine love for the sport, and I credit that entirely to his ability to teach and inspire. Captain Jake is not just a fishing guide; he’s an ambassador for the sport and an excellent teacher who truly knows how to create a memorable experience for families. If you’re looking for a guide who is great with kids, knows Lake Wylie like the back of his hand, and will go above and beyond to ensure you have the best possible experience, then Captain Jake is the one to call. I can’t recommend Captain Jake’s Guide Service enough. It was an unforgettable day on the water, and we’ll definitely be booking with him again!

Ready to Get on the Water?

Book Your Lake Cruise Today!

Check availability online or give Jake a call to plan your day on the water.