Reviews: HOLD FAST

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  • 5-star James Martin (14/07/2024)

    Had a fantastic day with my brother on Hold Fast. Gary is a fantastic skipper, very likeable and generous about sharing his considerable knowledge and experience. Learned a lot and had a great experience. Will definitely be booking again. Many thanks!

  • 5-star HAROUN SHAH (07/06/2024)

    I cannot recommend Gary highly enough as a fishing charter skipper! My father and I regularly fish with Gary, and each trip has been nothing short of spectacular. Gary's boat is always clean, well-maintained, and perfectly equipped for any fishing adventure.

    What truly sets Gary apart is his incredible accommodation for all guests, especially those with special needs. My father, who is blind, is always treated with the utmost respect and care. Gary ensures that he is safe, comfortable, and engaged throughout the trip, which means the world to both of us.

    Gary's knowledge of the waters and fishing spots is unparalleled. He always knows where to find the fish, and his tips and tricks have immensely improved our fishing skills. His patience and willingness to teach others are commendable, and it's always a pleasure to learn from him.



    Gary isn't just a skipper; he’s a kind, considerate host and a true professional. If you're looking for an exceptional fishing experience, look no further than Gary. We are already looking forward to our next adventure with him!

  • 5-star Simon Dickens (09/09/2023)

    Wow what can I say Gary and Susan are amazing hosts we booked them to scatter my father in law
    ashes out at sea him being a submariner they could not do enough for us 5 stars from us Will defo book them for fishing trip in the future

  • 5-star Philip Waller (19/07/2023)

    This was my first charter trip since 2020. The boast is amazing, lots of space for everyone some even fish from the front. It is very clean and even has a toilet. and crises at 28 knots. There are two igloo boxes which Gary the skipper puts ice in to keep your bait and catch fresh. Not many skippers do that. Tea and coffee are supplied in thermos mugs so it doesn't go cold and there are free biscuits. At 3pm he even handed out ice cold KitKats to the crew! The skipper Gary couldn't be more helpful or more friendly. He has a dry humour that many will miss.
    On out trip we basically caught nothing which was surprising given the experience of the crew and the ample choice of bait Gary made available from crabs for smoothound, cuttlefish, squid and mackerel we caught.
    Unfortunately, due to an injury by one of the crew we had to go in 90minutes early which none of us minded as it had become quite rough. Back at the mooring, Gary said pay me what you think is fair as it was a short trip and fishing was poor (not his fault as he moved 5 or 6 times trying to find fish for us.) Most gave him just £40 which was mean considering his efforts, but my mate and I wanted to pay him the full £65 but he would only accept £50. How many skippers would do that these days? I whole-heartedly and unreservedly, recommend this boat and the skipper in particular. One thing Gary, it would be even better if we could store our bags/gear off the deck so it doesn't get wet and slide around when you go warp speed.

  • 5-star Steve Veck (29/06/2023)

    I’ve been charter fishing for nearly 50 years! One of the most helpful skippers I’ve ever met. Goes the extra mile and would highly recommend. Great boat too. Steve.

  • 5-star Tony Astill (25/06/2023)

    Another great day on HOLD FAST with Gary. We're getting to like this skipper! He'll take you where you want to go fishing and the marks which yield the fish you want to catch. I wanted to get a Tope so out came a bigger Penn rod and reel, rig with flapper and half an hour later a 5 foot specimen was brought alongside and released gently back to the deep.
    The boat was spotlessly clean as usual and nothing too much trouble - thankyou!

  • 5-star Matt Smith (30/04/2023)

    Absolutely brilliant day.Cought a fair amount of bream for the barbecue as well as Ray,Shark and eel.not bad for a load of novices under Gary expert friendly guidance.loads of tea and coffee,and a great crack.See you soon Gary.

  • 5-star Tony Astill (19/05/2023)

    Yesterday we enjoyed our first trip on Hod Fast. Gary is the very knowledgable and hospitable skipper who did everything to make the day most enjoyable. Hold Fast has so much room on her and she's spotlessly clean and FAST too! Moving to different marks is effortless and productive and Gary is happy to do so in order to find fish - which he seems to do with ease.
    We'll be back on Hold Fast soon to finish off his biscuits!.

  • 5-star Terry Rollings (13/05/2023)

    Are second trip with Gary on Hold Fast .
    We had a brilliant day on the black bream on both trips and some bass on the last trip great boat and skipper