Building a Customer List: The Simple System Captains Ignore

This guide covers building a customer list: the simple system captains ignore for fishing charter businesses, with emphasis on rebook timing, guest follow-ups, and referral growth.

Overview

Building a Customer List: The Simple System Captains Ignore is a practical reference for charter operators who want to improve rebook timing and guest follow-ups.

Use this guide when reviewing your trip pages, booking flow, or guest communication standards.

Key points

  • Follow up within 24 hours of each trip.
  • Store customer preferences for future offers.
  • Use seasonal reminders tied to target species.
  • Make referrals easy to share and track.

Checklist

  • Capture guest email and phone during booking.
  • Send a post-trip thank-you within 24 hours.
  • Schedule a rebook reminder tied to the season.
  • Offer a simple referral incentive or perk.
  • Track repeat guests and preferences.

Common mistakes

  • Waiting too long to follow up after a trip.
  • Only emailing during discounts or slow periods.
  • Failing to document guest preferences.
  • Asking for referrals without a clear next step.

Examples

  • A post-trip email with a rebook suggestion based on the season.
  • A birthday message with a private charter reminder.
  • A referral text that includes the booking link.

See also