Fishing on a head boat

[a-baum]

Hey folks,

Absolutely love fishing but can't afford a boat or a private charter as often as I'd like to fish. So I was looking at head boats, specifically the Voyager which seems to have some pretty cool trips on its calendar out for tilefish, cod, tuna, etc. There's others I have looked at as well.

I am just not sure what to expect on those trips, especially an overnight trip. Some trips limit to 26-30 people while others limit to 44 or so. I am worried about etiquette on how to fish in big crowds like that and concerned that I might piss people off. Certainly don't want to be "that guy" on a trip that is 15-24 hours in length. What can I generally expect on those longer trips? Are most people friendly? Is it a fun atmosphere? I will likely go alone on my first few trips. When you find your spot, is that your spot for the whole trip? I may try out a shorter trip first but would like to get a little more offshore for bigger species. Any tips for a total headboat newbie? Thanks!

[BugEye Chris]

P m sent

[porgylber]

Hey folks,

Absolutely love fishing but can't afford a boat or a private charter as often as I'd like to fish. So I was looking at head boats, specifically the Voyager which seems to have some pretty cool trips on its calendar out for tilefish, cod, tuna, etc. There's others I have looked at as well.

I am just not sure what to expect on those trips, especially an overnight trip. Some trips limit to 26-30 people while others limit to 44 or so. I am worried about etiquette on how to fish in big crowds like that and concerned that I might piss people off. Certainly don't want to be "that guy" on a trip that is 15-24 hours in length. What can I generally expect on those longer trips? Are most people friendly? Is it a fun atmosphere? I will likely go alone on my first few trips. When you find your spot, is that your spot for the whole trip? I may try out a shorter trip first but would like to get a little more offshore for bigger species. Any tips for a total headboat newbie? Thanks!

A trip of that length is a financial investment for most fishermen. Therefore, you tend to find serious folks at the rails, and not your crowd of hungover drunks. My best advice? Listen to the mates. If he recommends 16 oz of weight, don’t be a hero using 5 oz. You will just tangle everyone and piss everyone off.Ask questions. They are there to help you. Don’t forget to tip them well at the end.

[Jay]

PM Sent.

[slammer]

a-baum.If you do a tuna trip I recommend a light load tripThe less people the better,More room to maneuver,less chance of tangles.Everyone has to work together.Tell the mates your a newbie.they will help set you up.Ask for advice from seasoned anglers.I like the Gambler,great tuna boat.Also the Mimi.light load trips 10-12 people.Good luck.

[Capt. Debbie]

Do not bring light fishing gear. NOTHING pisses off everyone more that some A-Hole running around the boat with 30 pound test or a spinning reel tuna fishing. It tangles the hell out of everyone. They stops their fishing.

ITs business. Get it down quickly and efficiently.

And rail spots start out owned and people eventually move or over in during the trip. Like stern (transom corners) or bow.

[Muldune]

Fish the Gambler you cant go wrong been tuna fishing with them over 25 years mates and Old Salts are always willing to help. look at his site Gamblerfishing.net

[Muldune]

you have to crawl before you walk everyone had to learn

[a-baum]

Yeah I know it's just intimidating being surrounded by seasoned pros who may or may not have much patience for new folks and their learning. I think I have a pretty good idea what to expect. One thing I am lacking is understanding what rigs to use for the different species and types of fishing. Bottom fishing inshore vs. tilefish vs. jigging for tuna, etc. Where I can find out about that stuff when I don't have a saltwater tackle shop within an hour drive?

[Muldune]

Did you look at the Gamblers website? Im sure people will help you out you dont need to buy everything the tackle shops wants to sell you

[Capt Joe]

A-baum:

http://www.bigjamaica.com/

Biggest, fastest boat to the canyons. Great crew, many years experience. You cant go wrong especially first time out. Call Capt Howard he will get you goin'

[BCinerie]

Go in the Gambler. Been fishing with them for 40 years. They are good folks and want you to catch. Go to some sponsors taxkle shop and walk around and ask some questions. They want to get you the right equipment because you will be back and back and back. Lol. The more you ask and learn the more you will enjoy. Look around and see
What the guys catching are doing and duplicate it. How far down , how far out. . How much weight what leader etc. keep it simple has worked for me for 30 plus years. Good luck. 🍀

[Capt Joe]

Get on the big boat, A-baum, this time of the year you will be glad you did.;)

[capt74]

Gambler all the way !!!!!! The guys will help you with everything you need. You don't have to go out and buy anything. Rent a pole and the rigs come with it. Then if you like it you can get your own stuff. Don't be intimated with the "PROS" most guys are more than happy to help you out. The crew has many years of experience and will go out of there way to make sure you have a great trip. Best of luck.

[O'Connor]

There is absolutely nothing to worry about. most of the fish will be 40-60 lb class. Tuna fishing is not a big deal. Enjoy yourself.

[a-baum]

Awesome info everyone. Much appreciated.

So I'm booked in less than 2 weeks. Should I bother to bring any squid, or just go with the provided clams? Going 130-180ft of water supposedly. Would REALLY like to land a cod or pollack, but also a pile of bass.

[Super]

Awesome info everyone. Much appreciated.

So I'm booked in less than 2 weeks. Should I bother to bring any squid, or just go with the provided clams? Going 130-180ft of water supposedly. Would REALLY like to land a cod or pollack, but also a pile of bass.

If they're not providing squid I'd bring some. A few jigs too. And a good book and a pillow.

[Capt Joe]

Awesome info everyone. Much appreciated.

So I'm booked in less than 2 weeks. Should I bother to bring any squid, or just go with the provided clams? Going 130-180ft of water supposedly. Would REALLY like to land a cod or pollack, but also a pile of bass.

DUH! What happened to the Tuna trip?:rolleyes::)

[a-baum]

Seemed like the tuna was spotty and I'd rather catch more smaller fish than roll the dice that I get into a tuna at all.

[Down Deep Sportfishing]

The right choice, good luck & post a report !