Guidelinesfor Co-Anglers

Pointer 78 · May 4, 2008

I've fished as a Co-Angler for years on the BFL Tour and in my bass club. I've also been a Boater. Over the years and especially lately, I've heard and read many complaints from Boaters about their Co-Anglers on a variety of subjects. I've been a member on here for almost 3 years and do not recall this topic being brought up. For years, I fished with this guy and 99% of the time we would take my boat. He never offered me a dime ( I wouldn't have taken it but the offer would've been nice). My truck was in the shop for a couple of weeks so we had to use his boat for a while. I gave him $15.00 after every trip for gas. He didn't get the hint. Needless to say, we haven't fished together in a long time. Also, more and more of us want to try our hand at tournament fishing as a Co-Angler. These guidelies are taken from my own experience and from other fishing forums. Only a few pertain to a recreational trip. All can be practiced in a tournament setting.

1. Bass fishing is expensive and getting more so every week. It's not unusual for a boat owner to put $150.00 worth of gas in his boat before a trip or tournament, not to mention the cost of upkeep and insurance. No one expects you to pay half of everything. Even if you're invited for a few hours of recreational fishing on the lake, offer your boater at least $20.00. $10.00 if you're only on the water for a couple of hours and only run 1 or 2 miles He'll already have drinks, ice, and snacks. He will not only appreciate it, it'll help insure a return trip. Even if he doesn't accept it (and some won't) he'll still appreciate it. Where else can you get a guided fishing tour for 10 or 20 bucks? Tournament fishing is another matter. Longer runs are inevitable so plan on offering your boater more. The standard contribution on the Co-Angler side in the BFL is now around $50.00. In a local dogfight, pay the entry fee and maybe a little extra if the entry fee is nominal. If fishing a local tournament with an entry fee of $75.00 or less, offer to pay the entire entry fee. You're only contributing $37.50 to your boater after all.

2. Especially in a tournament setting, bring your own life vest. Your boater may not have an extra and if he does, it may not fit you. If you're fishing a draw tournament (like a BFL or similar event) with an unfamiliar boater, he'll consider you a rank amateur if he has to supply your life vest.

3. Bring no more than 5 rods. If you want to bring more (never more than 7) ask if it's OK first.

4. You're going on a fishing trip, not a vacation. And you're never going to use everything in your tacklebox anyway. Boats have limited space. Keep your tackle box small enough to stow away in the space behind your seat. I'm stunned at the size I've seen some Co-Anglers carry in BFLs. They're absolute duffle bags. Ask your boater what techniques he's going to use beforehand and pack your tackle box accordingly.

5. If you don't know how to back a trailer, tell your boater. He won't mind backing it in for you and he'll appreciate your honesty.

6. In a draw tournament setting where you both have seperate fish, never open your Boater's livewell unless asked. Sometimes fish will bolt for sudden daylight and come completely out of the livewell.I've known this to happen 4-5 times. If asked to check on his fish, open the lid slowly.

7. Be very careful with dyes and scents. Open them VERY carefully. Some scents seem to last forever and stink to high heaven. Apply dyes and spray-on scents over the water and make sure dyes have dried before casting.

8. Keep your area uncluttered (I'm sometimes guilty of this). You don't want your boater stumbling over your rods or tacklebox while he's rushing to net your fish.

9. Snack on foods that will not leave a mess. Take foods you can put in your mouth in one bite. Beef jerky and beef sticks are ideal on the water. You'd be surprised how difficult cheese cracker crumbs are to get out of boat carpeting. If you make a mess, clean it up.

10. If you break something, offer to pay for it.

11. In a draw tournament situation like a B.A.S.S. or FLW event, never cast past the midline of the boat unless given permission to do so. That's your boater's water. This generally doesn't apply to buddy or team tournaments.

12. If you're fishing with a new partner, let him initiate the conversation until you get a feel on how much he likes to talk.

13. Unless it's a buddy or team tournament, it's not a good idea to use the exact same lure as your boater. If fish are slaying a blade and your Boater is using a white one, throw a chartreuse/white color. This is especially true in major B.A.S.S. and FLW events.

14. Ask your Boater if he wants you to net his fish. Some actually don't. If he does, ask him if he prefers to lead his fish to the net or if he wants you to reach with the net. Let him know your preference netting your fish.

There are others I'm sure so feel free to add your suggestions, comments, or even pet peeves concerning Co-Anglers and heck..... even Boaters

Jmax · May 4, 2008

Smoking and chewing in my boat.emoBang I like it when asked. I do not mind one doing so as long as he or she is a good marksmen at spiting and does not leave ashes in my boat. I do not do either so would prefer not to have the stuff but I also understand that for some it is such a habit that they almost cannot go without a day....bottom line....don't leave it in the boat in any way when the day is done.

Complaining and griping: I do not like to hear when someone goes with someone and that person comes back and has nothing good to say about the person that took them.emoScratch I also don't want to hear about it if it was me...if someone as a guest has a suggestion then say it and leave it. If the boater does not want to do it, well....your the guest so accept it or get a boat. I took a guy once on a draw tournament and all he did all day was complain to me how I was fishing wrong.emoAngry I have you know I took third and first and second was within site of us all day. Did you know the guy still complained going home.emoDoh I told the club if I ever got drawn with him again I was not going.emoMad

I will say that I have fished with about 25 of the members on here and have had nothing but good trips and fun times. My hat is off the CFF members. emoWorthy Jmax (well RR may have been a little hard to stomach...emoPoke Jk,JKemoBigsmile )

fisherpal2k · May 4, 2008

Pointer I posted these a long time ago and I think they got yanked during a cleaning. I know they are long but here ya go. I am using these by permission from the original author so its not plagerism or ever how ya say it....

TOURNAMENT FISHING ETIQUETTE

Recommendations for "Boaters"

1. A "boater" should never yell, criticize or belittle their "non-boater" in a way that would make them feel they are anything less than part of the "Team for a Day". Talk to your "non-boater" not down to them. Many of these "non-boater" anglers are new and look up to you. Be prepared to answer questions although they may seem mundane to you. Do you remember when you first started bass fishing? Introduce your "non-boater" to other anglers that you know when you are floating around in the morning waiting for the "Blast-off'. Life long friendship have begun this way...

2. Set the boat rules early, if you have any, and do so in a polite way before the start of the day. Example: Use of tobacco products, eating / drinking, walking on seats, netting fish, etc. Show your "non-boater" where things are located in the boat. Let your "non-boater" know a few minutes ahead of time when you are thinking of making a run. This will allow them time to stow tackle, rods, etc. and be ready to go when you are. Always provide your "non-boater" an empty dry storage compartment in your boat for stowing items that might get wet or blowout and try not to scare the hell out of your "non-boater" by doing your best "Evil Knievel" impression of a race boat driver. Boating accidents can and do kill. Communication and common-since go hand-n-hand when' tournament fishing. .

3. Before getting on the water with your "non-boater" discuss how they like to fish e.g. fast vs. slow etc. Ask what are their favorite lures or techniques? Ask if there's anything they don't like to throw. Tell your "non-boater" what your plans are for the day. Be truthful when telling them what they need to bring and what they should expect during the day on the water with you. Before "Blast-off' you should check your "non- boaters" rods, reels, drag settings, line, hooks, wires on spinner-baits and buzz-baits, etc. If the "non-boater" you draw doesn't have the equipment or set -up you feel they need, it would behoove you to change theirs out or loan them yours.. .after all, the fish they catch my increase the size of your check! If you retrieve your "Lucky Craft" baits you should be prepared to retrieve your "non-boaters" as well. Their lures cost them just as much, if not more, than yours cost you!

4. Be sure to exchange contact information. Set a designated time and meeting place and be on time for both the morning boat check and to the weigh-in check point. Your "non-boater" doesn't have control over the steering wheel nor the key to the boat but they can be DQ'd for your mistake of coming in late. By the same token, don't stop fishing at noon if your weigh-in time is 3 O'clock. Most "non-boaters" are either missing work or using vacation days to fish with you, so give them a full day on the water. Remember, that last cast may be the money cast of the day.



 5. In two day tournaments, if you have a bad "Day 1", remember to approach "Day 2" with a positive mindset and fish just as hard as if you were in the lead. Ask your "non- boater" where they stand after the first day. But do not ask when, where or how they caught fish with their "boater" on the first day. Under no circumstance do you ever go back to a spot your "non-boater" tells you about from the prior day, this is assuming you have a different draw partner.

6. Always weigh-in even if you don't plan to fish the rest of the scheduled events because you didn't finish well. Your two small fish may be the difference in your "non- boater" making the championship. Don't forget to sign weigh slips.

7. Don't party all night and come to the tournament tired, hungry and hung-over in. the morning. You should be prepared to put-forth a 100% effort. Your" non-boater" is counting on you and I'm sure your family, friends and sponsors are too. If your at the tournament just to drink or party with your buddies then everyone would be better off if you just stay home.. 

Recommendations for the "Non-boater"

1. Be on time. Approach the day with a positive attitude. Don't be afraid to ask questions especially if you are uncertain about what your "boater" wants or is asking you to do. There is no such thing as a dumb question. However, if your "boater" doesn't like to talk while fishing, try to keep your questions direct and your talking to a minimum. If your "boater" ask you to fish a certain lure or a certain way you should have confidence in what they're asking you to do. They may know something you've never thought of. Remember, this should be a learning experience so don't be afraid to ask reasonable questions.

2. Boat launch: If you are not comfortable backing the "boaters" rig down the ramp, tell them so! Nobody will care and you shouldn't be embarrassed. There are lots of guys that will help you launch and it's much easier to ask for help and a whole lot less trouble than making a costly mistake. If you do, do the launch and you park the truck, remember to turn off the lights and lock the doors and put the keys in your pocket. Never throw keys over water. If you can avoid it, don't drive the truck/trailer through mud. Don't hop in the truck with muddy wet feet and clothes. Do not park the truck or trailer in "No Parking", "Tow Away" or reserved "Handicap Parking" areas without proper
credentials. For boat retrieval/loading ask your "boater" how deep the trailer should be in the water.

3.. Come equipped with your life jacket, sunscreen and rain-gear. Your fishing gear
and equipment should be in good working order. Be sure to discuss with your "boater" what you need to bring in the way of rods, reels, line, lures, etc. Travel as light as you can and still have what you need. Tackle bags should be compact and organized. Remember, a bass boat has only so much room. Store your gear out of the way when not in use. Usually 3-5 rod's are sufficient for most established fishing paterns. However, if you want to bring more rods, ask your "boater" about available space.

4. Should your "boater" speak to you in a manner that you're uncomfortable with, tell them so in a nice way! Chances are, your boater is a bass fisherman and not a mind reader; therefore you need to speak up to be heard. Tournament day is not the time nor place to argue politics, religion or boats, etc., you're there to fish. You should keep your personal opinion about other anglers to yourself even if ask! Remember, you could be talking about a "boater's" best buddy or worse yet, his sister.

5.. Treat the "boater's" boat like it's your own. Don't step on seats; step over them. Tobacco, "Smelly Jelly", dip and dye, pee, and other stains can be a pain to wash off or get out of the carpet. In fact, sometimes they don't come off. Therefore, if you do permanent damage to the boat you should offer and be willing to pay either for the damage itself, if the repair cost is less than the insurance deductible, or pay your boater's insurance deductible amount. "Non-boaters" are not required to pay boat expenses, but I recommend bring some cash ($20 for gas, launch fees, etc. Boats have hidden expenses that most "non-boaters" aren't aware of. Help out the best you can; remember, word gets around fast about "dead-beats".

6. When casting and flipping try to not "Whack" the engine cowling, sides of the boat or the seats and consoles with your lure. Do not cast over your "boater's" line or fish his part of the water first. Show some respect and he will do the same for you. Never, ever cast to a missed fish by your partner unless he tells you to. He has the right to follow up on that particular bite. If you're boater is on fish and you, as the "non-boater" get' hung-up, you should be prepared to break off rather than ask they move the boat for you. Practice netting fish when your fun fishing as this is a skill, 'you should practice this just like all the other things you do to make you better. A good net person is a valuable asset.

7. Don't party all night and show up tired, hungry and hung-over in the morning. If you expect your "boater" to perform at 100% you should be prepared to put-forth the same amount of effort. If you come to the tournament just to drink or party with your buddies everyone would be better off if you just stay home.

jason · May 4, 2008

Gee Jerry, did you have some issues with your co-angler on Saturday

?

I've been the "co-angler" for a few years now and have fished with most of you guys. The way I look at it is simple...I'm a guest. I'm spending time in someone's property that they have worked hard for and I treat it with the same respect that I would give if visiting their home; you wouldn't take everything but the kitchen sink nor would you jump on their couch. Many of you have commented on problems you have had with other "back-seaters" and it shocks me that some people can be so thoughtless...you give the rest of us a bad name. Heck, some guys fish solo simply because of nightmares they have had on the lake with a co-angler. Look at it this way: without the boater, you ain't going fishing!

ashtrey · May 4, 2008

I agree. I am not an owner of a boat but I do fish with my father quite a bit. And I also help with gas and clean it up with. It is only right to do this. you all have payed good money to fish it is only right that we help here and there. I can see no paying if you are asked to fish here and ther but atleast offer. Another thing is if you break it offer to fix it or atleast offer to help pay for it.

Nice post.

venom295pe · May 5, 2008

I fished co-angler all last year in the Bama BFL. For anybody wanting to do this it is a lot of fun and I would recommend it. These are a bunch of good points and all of them right. theres a couple of things I did last that worked real well for me. One is I did not ask my boater alot of questions the night before the tourny. Because nine times out of ten his not going to tell you the truth. The reason is that most of the co's in these put in with a boater for priority reasons, and the boater you draw doesnt want you telling your friend. I would usually ask how long of a boat ride we were taking at blast off and usually how deep we where going to be fishing. I would just plan on fishing to my strengths and have fun, and alot of times it turned out pretty good. To add to the scents and dye's, one thing I did was bought one those dye pins, that way you dont have to worry about spilling dye in your boaters boat. I have fished both as a boater and as a co in BFL, and I've had alot of times that a co did'nt offer me any money for gas, and from that experience I know they appreicate it. When I fished as a co I would usually try to give between 20 and 30$ to my boater. There were two instances that both of my co's drawed checks and two events and did'nt offer anything, but hey we had alot of fun and it was good experience. Also one thing that I witnessed last year is a boater culling co-angler fish without him knowing. In these events boater and co are not supposed to be out of each other site, but this certain event we could load the boat before we weighed and co backed the trailer in and went to weigh-in and ended up with a short fish. This is a buddy of mine and he's know's what he's doing when it comes the measuring fish and he said the boater had six fish in his livewell when they came in. After that weigh-in I started stepping on my livewell lid if my boater had a fish to put in his, just to be safe. In these events you really have to pay attention to whats going on. Just my 2 cents worth.

Nickajack Angler · May 5, 2008

Good post. I can see both sides of the boat, being a non boater currently and having boats in the past. I've had a blast with everyone I've fished with on CFF. I am sure that I have made a few of these errors and am glad to have read this post to ensure I don't assume a familiarity that isn't there. I try to ask each of the questions above, and yes, I talk WAY more than I should. That's not isolated to fishing!!!

kickinbass35 · May 6, 2008

I havn't fished in the boat with many people on here. I'd say most of you are pretty cool to fish with . As a co angler i respect the owners boat but did have one incident where i got emoHoppingmad at the boater. I was in the Cleveland Bass Mastersand drew a guy to for a tx. It you fished for points at the time . I did everything i could to help this man i launched the boat . Paid for all the gas and even paid the pot for the biggest bag for him needless to say I landed his fish in the net just like he told me . But when it came down to me he wouldnt position the boat where i could make accurate casts even though i would ask him to he ignored me . And i caught a good fish looked to be a solid 7 he woulld'nt net it for me so i lost it Needless to say he won the tx . Not even a thank you for helpin him land his fish or anything . then low and behold if i didnt draw him for the very next tx I ended up not going emoAngler at that tx cause I didnt want to have another bad experience with him I think it was that way with everyone that fished with him till he finally left the club. You just cant please some people no matter how hard you try

Davo · May 6, 2008

I wish Fishnvol would read this, his tackle bag is as big as a house and probably weighs as much.emoPoke Not only that but he gets fish poop and blood all over my carpet. At least he brings water and candy bars.

fishinvol · May 6, 2008

Fine, I'll leave my tackle bag at home. I'll just use all your crap, you have too much anyway. As far as the stains go, be glad I'm at least catching fish to be able to stain your carpet. Somebody has to carry your sorry old butt

!!!

SpurHunter · May 6, 2008

Thanks for the thread! I dont fish bass TX, but alot of these apply to friendly fishing as well, and although I am sure I have done some of these things good and bad, I will keep them in mind to improve my "backseating".

Guidelinesfor Co-Anglers

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Pointer 78

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