Mates fishing during charters. OPINION

[Seamus]

Ive seen it done both ways, professional and not. I think whichever way, the guys doing it know the difference. If it's unprofessional but they still managed to get most of the job done I still tip but just dont charter that boat again.

I've seen some real out of line behavior on party boats like mates fishing all day while customer are working the bait station and helping less experienced people with tangles a few rods down from them. I dont know anything about running a boat but as a business owner I would never allow a customer to have an experience like that.

[Solemate]

I think it depends on a lot of factors. First off be aware of staying away from the customers space and tending to there needs first. Your catch must be there meat and only fish if the Captain approves of it. You are not there to show off but to be a helpful part of the fishing experience. You are not being paid to fish but at times your fishing could benefit the Charter. If it is not and open charter then you should also get permission from whoever chartered the boat.

[LeftyReeler]

Originally Posted by ytuna

If the mate is taking care of everyone's needs I have no problem with them wetting a line. I have been on a fair number of six pack charters where the mate fishes and it has not diminished the quality of my experience. On many boats the mate and captain become part of the social experience to the betterment of all. When they join in the ball busting the day gets better.

The mate still takes care of the nasty work: anchor, cutting bait, cleaning fish, cleaning the boat, unplugging the toilet. If he can do all of that I still catch a few fish thats great.

X2... Id much rather have a mate and capt fishing with us then not.. Def makes the trip and the busting much more enjoyable

[joeya78]

Originally Posted by ytuna

If the mate is taking care of everyone's needs I have no problem with them wetting a line. I have been on a fair number of six pack charters where the mate fishes and it has not diminished the quality of my experience. On many boats the mate and captain become part of the social experience to the betterment of all. When they join in the ball busting the day gets better.

The mate still takes care of the nasty work: anchor, cutting bait, cleaning fish, cleaning the boat, unplugging the toilet. If he can do all of that I still catch a few fish thats great.

Well said

[Ol Pedro]

When I'm working I generally don't fish . It's all about Service . My problem is when I'm fishing (not enough for me to work/enough room on a trip). I drop what I'm doing and jump into the pile when the bite is on instead of fishing . I have caught plenty and take Great Joy helping others catch fish .