Business Details
22 Years
experience
Virginia Beach's Premier Fishing Charter Service
Since 2004, Matador Charters has been delivering premier fishing experiences along the Mid-Atlantic coast. Founded by Captain Jake Hiles, a seasoned angler with decades of experience, our service combines expert knowledge with state-of-the-art equipment to create unforgettable fishing adventures. Our fleet includes the high-performance 'Meat Wagon,' a 31' Contender Fisharound equipped with advanced marine electronics and trolling technology to maximize fishing efficiency. We specialize in offshore, inshore, and deep-drop techniques targeting species like marlin, tuna, and swordfish.With a focus on safety, education, and customer satisfaction, we cater to both novice and experienced anglers. Our seasonal operations span Virginia Beach and Hatteras, offering tailored trips from half-day excursions to 12-hour offshore adventures. We provide all necessary gear, licenses, and bait while emphasizing hands-on instruction to enhance your fishing skills. Our commitment to quality has earned recognition through tournament wins and state records, solidifying our reputation as a trusted leader in regional charter fishing.
Services
Offshore Fishing
Inshore Fishing
Deep Drop Fishing
Shark Fishing
Wreck Fishing
Tournament Preparation
Gear Rental
Fishing Instruction
Fish Cleaning
Charter Boat Tours
Details
- Year established: 2004
Highlights and features
- We offer 20+ years of local fishing expertise with USCG-licensed Captain Jake Hiles
- Our modern 31' Contender Fisharound ensures speed, comfort, and advanced fishing technology
- We provide hands-on instruction for anglers of all skill levels
- Our vessel complies with all USCG safety standards
- We guarantee access to prime fishing grounds through spot-lock trolling technology
Services
Offshore Fishing
Our offshore fishing charters target pelagic species like marlin, sailfish, and tuna in Virginia Beach and Hatteras waters. Using advanced trolling and deep-drop techniques, we access prime fishing grounds where experienced anglers can battle trophy fish. The service includes professional instruction, top-tier PENN and Shimano gear, and electric reels for deep-water species. Trips range from 8 to 12 hours with expert guidance for optimal catch success.
Inshore Fishing
Inshore charters focus on coastal species including red drum, flounder, and spadefish in Virginia's shallow waters. Available as 4-8 hour trips, this service accommodates all skill levels with hands-on instruction from Captain Jake. We provide light tackle and live bait while teaching sight-fishing techniques. The 'Meat Wagon' vessel's spot-lock technology ensures precise positioning over productive fishing structures for maximum catch opportunities.
Deep Drop Fishing
Specialized deep-drop and wreck fishing trips target deep-water species like tilefish and snowy grouper using electric reels. This 12-hour offshore adventure accesses underwater structures inaccessible to most charter boats. The service includes technical expertise for bottom fishing at depths exceeding 1,000 feet, with all necessary equipment provided. Anglers can expect to catch exotic deep-sea species while learning specialized deep-water fishing techniques from experienced professionals.
Shark Fishing
Shark fishing charters offer thrilling encounters with large pelagic sharks in Virginia and North Carolina waters. Using heavy tackle and specialized gear, we target species like tiger and hammerhead sharks. The service includes safety instruction for handling large predators and catch-and-release techniques. Trips combine trolling and chumming methods while educating anglers about shark behavior and marine ecosystem conservation.
Tournament Preparation
Tournament preparation services leverage Captain Jake's extensive competitive fishing experience, including White Marlin Open victories. We provide specialized training in tournament techniques, equipment optimization, and fish identification. The service includes access to proven fishing grounds and strategic planning for competitive anglers. Participants receive expert guidance on tournament rules and catch documentation procedures.
People
Captain Jake Hiles
Charter Captain
Professional fisherman with 20+ years experience, holding Virginia's state record for Bluefin Tuna. USCG-licensed captain and tournament winner, specializing in Mid-Atlantic fisheries. Owner of Matador Charters since 2004, combining competitive expertise with customer education.
Questions
What fishing licenses are required for charter trips?
All necessary fishing licenses are provided by Matador Charters at no additional cost.
Can beginners participate in deep-sea fishing trips?
Yes, our charters accommodate all skill levels with personalized instruction from experienced professionals.
What is the maximum group size for charters?
We accommodate up to 6 passengers with additional fees applying for groups exceeding 4 people.
Are fishing gear and bait included in trip prices?
All necessary rods, reels, tackle, and bait are included in our charter packages.
What payment methods are accepted for bookings?
We accept cash, checks, and credit cards (with a 10% processing fee).
Do you offer fishing instruction during charters?
Yes, Captain Jake provides hands-on instruction tailored to each angler's experience level.
Videos
Reviews (5)
Daniel Meyer
Jan 17, 2022
Report
Wouldn't stop talking about 1/6/2021, his red hat and penny crypto stocks. Fraudulent pricing. Uses awful bait, can't run lines, couldn't catch anything except minnows. Not worth the money, time, or effort. Not to mention, a headache over the phone. Go with a real pros and save yourself time and money. Go with AfishinadoVB, Virginia Beach Fishing Center, C Level Sportfishing, or Sport Fishing Charters.
Heck, you would have better luck just whipping from shore.
0/5 stars would be appropriate.
Heck, you would have better luck just whipping from shore.
0/5 stars would be appropriate.
Danyale Davis
Nov 21, 2021
Report
With only a few days notice, we booked our trip offshore as a unique way to celebrate my 40th birthday with my family. As far taking the chance to go offshore charter mid-November, we couldnt have asked for a better experience thanks to Jake and Beau who showed us a excellent time out on the water! By the end of the trip, we caught just under our limit of 90 Black Sea Bass plus caught a few other unique varieties. I even showed our boys how their moms could hold her own by earning my very 1st Fish Citation for this 4+lbs Atlantic Triggerfish. We look forward to re-booking with Jake aka Matador
Rochelle
May 12, 2021
Report
This experience was refreshing! Our group had a hands down 5 star experience. Captain Jake is cool and down to earth. He went above and beyond to assure we had an awesome day. I highly recommend.
Colin Salem
May 12, 2021
Report
This was my first time out on a fishing charter. I was with 5 other amateurs and Captain Jake was very helpful and knowledgeable! We kept him busy, helping us un-snag our lines, refilling the bait tray, unhooking fish, all while navigating us to some great hot spots for sea bass. We are excited to book another trip with Matador Charters!
David Walden
May 02, 2021
Report
I have fished with or chartered Jake many times over the years. Have caught multiple citation fish and even a state record during those trips. If there is a fish out there Jake will put you on it. We always come back with full boxes and a lot of laughs. Anyone that says different never really fished with him. Looking forward to another great year !
