Goober Time Guide Service
Captain Dan is a licensed charter captain, specializing in targeting trophy Blue Catfish on the, world famous, James River. We trailer our boats so many different launch locations are available depending on the time of year, weather conditions, and where the bite has been best recently.
In addition to Catfish, we target Crappie, Striped Bass, White Perch, and more. If there’s a particular species you’re most interested in, we will set up your trip to give you the best opportunity to catch that fish. Just message us before booking to discuss.
Our main fishing vessel is a 23 ft North River Seahawk Deep V aluminum boat designed to handle big water, accommodating up to 5 guests with a full enclosure and heat for year-round comfort. For larger parties—and available by request for smaller groups—we offer a 26 ft custom-built pontoon boat featuring a fire pit and tons of seating (note that range and speed are limited on this boat due to its size). Additionally, we run guided kayak fishing trips and Flathead Catfish trips on a whitewater raft in the upper James River. Kayak trips and whitewater trips are seasonal and only operational when the weather and water are warm, for safety reasons. Depending on the species you’re after, you may find yourself spinning, trolling, drifting, jigging, bottom fishing, or maybe something more specialized in this area.
Planning a family adventure? Kids are absolutely welcome! Children, 13 and younger must wear life vests, so find out if the appropriate size is available on board. Don’t forget to bring snacks to maintain your energy throughout the trip! Your captain will provide rods and reels, along with lures. Live bait is available, but you should ask the captain whether you’ll be catching it yourself.
Your fishing license for the day is covered by the charter boat, so all you have to do is look forward to your trip! All Catfish over 10lbs will be released however you may keep smaller fish to eat if you wish.
Captain Dan is a licensed charter captain, specializing in targeting trophy Blue Catfish on the, world famous, James River. We trailer our boats so many different launch locations are available depending on the time of year, weather conditions, and where the bite has been best recently.
In addition to Catfish, we target Crappie, Striped Bass, White Perch, and more. If there’s a particular species you’re most interested in, we will set up your trip to give you the best opportunity to catch that fish. Just message us before booking to discuss.
Our main fishing vessel is a 23 ft North River Seahawk Deep V aluminum boat designed to handle big water, accommodating up to 5 guests with a full enclosure and heat for year-round comfort. For larger parties—and available by request for smaller groups—we offer a 26 ft custom-built pontoon boat featuring a fire pit and tons of seating (note that range and speed are limited on this boat due to its size). Additionally, we run guided kayak fishing trips and Flathead Catfish trips on a whitewater raft in the upper James River. Kayak trips and whitewater trips are seasonal and only operational when the weather and water are warm, for safety reasons. Depending on the species you’re after, you may find yourself spinning, trolling, drifting, jigging, bottom fishing, or maybe something more specialized in this area.
Planning a family adventure? Kids are absolutely welcome! Children, 13 and younger must wear life vests, so find out if the appropriate size is available on board. Don’t forget to bring snacks to maintain your energy throughout the trip! Your captain will provide rods and reels, along with lures. Live bait is available, but you should ask the captain whether you’ll be catching it yourself.
Your fishing license for the day is covered by the charter boat, so all you have to do is look forward to your trip! All Catfish over 10lbs will be released however you may keep smaller fish to eat if you wish.
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Customer reviews
Rating
Anglers' gallery (24)
Reviews (13)
Courtnei Jones5.0VerifiedNewAmazing experience!!
4 Hour Catfish Fishing Charter - 7:00 AM on September 27, 2026 • 3 adults • 1 childWe had an amazing time on our Catfish Trip with Captain Dan and Goober Time. The preparation: Captain Dan did an outstanding job providing extremely clear and thorough instructions to ensure we were fully prepared. If you're a first timer like we were, have no fear! The boat: There were 3 of us and there was plenty of space to enjoy the experience and sit comfortably. Everything was clean and well taken care of. The catch: The boys caught a Trophy Catfish (40 in, 30 lbs) which was super exciting since it was my boyfriend's birthday and son's first time fishing! They also caught plenty of catfish to take home, which they cleaned, cooked, and enjoyed for dinner. The service: Captain Dan was very personable, shared his fishing knowledge openly, and played fun games to keep my 8 year old son engaged. Overall, amazing experience! This was an unforgetable way to celebrate a birthday and a kid's first time out!
Kelsey Alas5.0VerifiedNew10/10 Experience and One Happy 10-year-old
4 Hour Catfish Fishing Charter - 4:00 PM on September 26, 2026 • 3 adults • 1 childIt's going to be hard to top the experience we had with Captain Dan. My son's 10th birthday wish was to 'catch a trophy catfish.' And, boy did Captain Dan deliver! Theo caught a 31 lb catfish and has the pictured framed on his nightstand already. Capt Dan was knowledgable, kind, patient, and clearly had honed his craft. He had all of the latest tech and tools. That combined with his knowledge made for a great experience. We already have friends booked with him for a birthday boat trip. My son Theo wanted to include here that "we'll be back, no doubt!"
James Stewart5.0VerifiedGreat morning of fishing
4 Hour Multispecies Fishing Charter - 7:00 AM on June 3, 2026 • 2 adultsCapt. Dan kept the action flowing and exciting for our crew. zCaughr several species of fish , perch crappie catfish. The boat was inviting and confortable. What a great day!
David Erickson5.0VerifiedThe Best Catfish Experience
4 Hour Smallmouth Bass Float on August 31, 2025 • 5 adultsI booked a 4 hour catfish charter for my brother-in-law’s bachelor party who lives in the area. It was scheduled for 7am at the boat ramp. I’m from Florida and the boat ramp was super easy to find. There was plenty of parking and even restrooms to use before and after the trip. The trip ran on time as scheduled. We started catching catfish within minutes of Capt Dan setting up the rods. He is a very professional and knowledgeable charter captain. Always helpful and guided us on what to do. One of us in the group even caught a trophy catfish and received a trophy chip for the catch! They even have merchandise to purchase! We picked up a bunch of hats and shirts after the trip. It was an excellent experience and a great adventure. Great memories made on this trip! We will be back and recommending Goober Times to everyone! Can’t wait for the next trip Capt Dan and keep up the great work! 🫡
Kenya Williams5.0VerifiedBest Fishing Experience Ever!!!!
4 Hour WEEKEND Catfish Guide Trip on May 3, 2025 • 4 adultsMy 2 sisters and I booked this trip for our mother's birthday and we ABSOLUTELY enjoyed every moment spent on the water and with Captain Dan!!! We highly commend and recommend Captain Dan for his wealth of knowledge and commitment to ensuring his customers are provided with everything they need for a successful and fun experience. Thank you again Captain Dan! We are looking forward to chartering another trip with Goober Time Guide Service in the near future!
Jess EllisRepeat angler5.0Verifiedwe uad a very good time on our fishing trip! Definitely would do it again!!!!
4 Hour Multispecies Fishing Charter - 4:00 PM on September 6, 2026 • 4 adultswe caught several smaller catfish. it was a beautiful morning to be on the water!!!! Definitely recommend!!!!
Mattia Pekanyande4.7VerifiedBeautiful day on the water
4 Hour Catfish Fishing Charter - 7:00 AM on August 30, 2026 • 5 adults • 2 childrenCpt Dan was communicative, knowledgeable, and felt part of our group. It was hot early and the fish weren't biting, but the adults had a great time and the kids had great sleep.
Tim Craig5.0VerifiedApril fishing trip
4 Hour WEEKDAY Catfish Guide Trip on April 16, 2025 • 3 adultsWe had a blast!!! We were catching fish from the first spot and we didn't stop! Hopefully I will be able to secure the citations for Thomas's fish! Thanks for an awesome adventure.
John Koon5.0VerifiedJune fishing trip
SUMMER 4 Hour Flathead Catfish Trip on June 21, 2025 • 2 adults • 1 childMy husband and son had a blast for their birthday! This is now what my son is asking for every year now! Captain Dan was awesome! Definitely booking with him again
Jeremy VenskeRepeat angler5.0VerifiedGreat time out on the water!
4 Hour WEEKDAY Catfish Guide Trip on October 24, 2024 • 2 adultsWill definitely have to go again! It was a beautiful evening out on the river. Never seen Richmond from water, it was great being out. Got my brother out on the water to get a big cat and he did! Next time, it's my turn. Thanks guys!
