1.
Bring a hooded sweatshirt and long pants for the mornings and
evenings, (not always needed but nice to have if you do need
it) hat, waterproof sunblock. Sandals are allowed. Probably the
biggest tip I can give when boarding is to leave any coolers
and beer home. Coolers are not allowed. Most boats a full galley
with food and beverages including beer, sodas water and coffee.
I like having breakfast in the am and a burger after fishing
myself.
2. When the boat is crowded on weekends and holidays be patient
if a tangle occurs. The deckhands are there to help when you need
it. At the end of the day if you are satisfied with the service
you received and your trip a tip for the galley and deckhands is
appreciated. The crew all works on tips and a small salary, so
please help them out with a tip if they did a good job. Tip like
you would in a restaurant or other service. Typically 15% or better
if you feel it is justfied.
3. Most boats will offer to clean your catch if you kept it at
the end of the day. Generally it is 50 cents to a couple of dollars
for cleaning. Yellowtail and Halibut may be more. The deckhands
are experienced at filleting and you have no mess to deal with
so I highly recommend fish cleaning.
4. Don't be overly concerned about getting a stern position. I
rarely fish the stern. Instead pick a spot just behind the wheel
house (usually this leaves room to cast) with the wind always blowing
in your face. (this will keep the bait from going under the boat
and live bait swimming away from the boat) Also if the boat is
sliding on the anchor spots from the wheelhouse forward will usually
get more action.
5. If you have some experience, pick a spot next to someone more
experienced you as tangles will be less likely. Also, if they are
catching fish when noone else is, watch their technique, rigging
and bait.
6. Pick the liveliest bait you see in the bait well and do not
fish a bait more than 2 minutes. If no bites in this time, reel
in and change your bait. I can't emphasize enough how many times
I see people soaking the same bait too long and never changing
it.
7. If you get tangled with another person put your reel in freespool
and call the deckhand to help with the tangle if you are unable
to get it free. Also when bringing fish on the deck, put you reel
in freespool if the deckhand is handling your fish.
8. When fishing live bait, keep your bait in front of you at all
times. Follow the golden rule..."No angles, No tangles". If seals
and sea lions are around avoid using sardines and bigger bait as
this will only keep them around. Use you best judgement.
9. Bring plenty of live bait hooks, torpedo sinkers, sliding egg
weights and split shots. By them at the landing as they know best
what is biting and what is working best for rigging.
This is just a partial list. If you have any other questions feel
free to post at the message board here or use our feedback form
here.
San
Diego Sportfishing on a Budget - New Article about discounts
available with links, how to save money when planning or booking
a trip and online printable discounts for half-day, three-quarter
day or others.
6-Pac Boats - Here's
my growing list of 6-pack sport fishing charters I have had good
success with.
Yellowtail
Fishing Tips - Article Rob wrote filled with tips and techniques
how to catch Yellowtail from San Diego boats.
