Federal Fisheries Permit for Scale House Charters - Captain Branden

What This Permit Covers

Scale House Charters holds a Federal Fisheries Permit issued by NOAA's National Marine Fisheries Service. This permit authorizes the operation of the Sportsman 252 as a charter and headboat for Atlantic HMS (highly migratory species) fishing. The vessel is registered as FL0980UC and operates out of Key Biscayne.

The permit includes a Recreational Shark Endorsement, which means anglers aboard can target sharks under recreational guidelines. The boat itself is 25 feet long with a 7-ton capacity, giving guests a solid platform for reaching offshore structure where these species live.

Reporting Requirements on Your Trip

When you fish for certain species—bluefin tuna, billfish, and recreational swordfish—Captain Branden reports catch data to NOAA. This reporting is part of the permit conditions and helps maintain healthy fish populations. You won't need to do anything on your end; it's handled after your trip wraps up.

If you're fishing in North Carolina or Maryland waters, state regulations may also apply, and Captain Branden stays current on those rules. The point is straightforward: the fishing you do aboard the Sportsman 252 is tracked and managed at the federal level to keep the fishery strong for everyone.

The Boat and Its Setup

The Sportsman 252 is a 2024 model built for performance and comfort on the water. It has a smooth, dry ride thanks to its hull design and delivers plenty of space on deck for anglers to move and cast. Inside, you'll find plush seating, a Bluetooth sound system so you can set the mood, and a private head (toilet) so you stay comfortable all day.

Premium electronics help Captain Branden read the water and locate fish. Whether you're targeting snapper, grouper, kingfish, yellowtail, mahi, tuna, sailfish, or sharks, the boat's setup and his 13 years of Miami water knowledge put the odds in your favor.

Trips Built to Your Style

Captain Branden runs both fishing charters and day cruises aboard the Sportsman 252, so you can shape your day around what sounds best. The Miami Bay Family Adventure is a 3-hour option that mixes easy fishing with a scenic cruise and a sandbar stop—great for families and first-timers who want a taste of both worlds. If you're after more action, the Shark Fishing Experience runs 5 hours and targets the ocean's heaviest hitters with fresh bait and heavy tackle.

Not feeling fishing? The Afternoon Island Vibes and City Sights Charter takes you past luxury homes and the iconic Miami skyline, with a stop to relax on an oversized water mat. The Miami Sunset Cruise runs 8 hours starting at noon and gives you time to swim, explore islands, and soak in views as the light changes. The Miami Night Fishing Experience fishes after dark when species like snappers, snook, tarpon, and trout bite hard.

Every trip includes rods, reels, tackle, bait, your fishing license, safety equipment, cooler with ice, and bottled water. If you want to boost your odds at bigger fish and nonstop action, live bait is available for an extra $60—just request it at least 24 hours ahead.

Getting Ready

Show up ready to enjoy the day. Wear sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and comfortable clothes you don't mind getting wet. Bring a towel and any snacks or drinks you prefer (besides the bottled water already onboard). If you're fishing for the first time, let Captain Branden know—he keeps things patient and hands-on so everyone stays engaged.

For fishing trips, no personal license is needed because the vessel permit covers recreational anglers aboard. For night fishing or shark trips, the action is fast, so wear shoes with good grip and be ready to move quickly when a fish hits. On cruise days, bring sunglasses and a hat, and maybe a light jacket for when you're on the water—even Miami can feel cool with the breeze.