NJ Saltwater Fisherman Forums
NJ Saltwater Fishing Reports and Information => General Fishing Topics => Topic started by: baloo6969 on May 04, 2012, 11:40:38 AM
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Hey all,
So I’m buying a boat. Never owned a big one. Fished many smaller boats on lakes and bays, and loved it. Finally have the $ to pull the trigger on a nice off shore boat.
I’ve got my boat license, and I am scheduling classes to earn my USCG Captain license this summer.
However, no book or class is in anyway compared to experience.
I want to be sure I’m safe, my family and friends are safe, and you guys are safe. Too many people get $$$ and think they know what they are doing. I will be the first to admit I know very little about offshore fishing, and it would be dangerous for me to be out on the ocean with my current skill set.
With that said, do charter boat captains allow for guys like myself to tag along on trips to just observe, learn, and get helpful tips,hits,tricks?
I would think that captains would embrace people wanting to learn and make the seas safer.
I would also be willing to work for free…to help out as a mate.
Bottom line is, I'm going to get a boat, with or without experience and training...so it would be a good idea to do this...I think.
-Baloo
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That's a great idea!
What kind of boat are you getting?
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That probably would be a great way to learn. Unfortunately, I think it might be a tough sell convincing many charter captians to let you ride for free. Best bet might be to try to hop on board a private boat who is looking for hands and knows what theyr'e doing. 5hrug
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I agree. It will be hard to sell it as a 'for free' type of travel.
I wouldn't hesitate to pay a few bucks...till the captain was comfortable with me and my skills...then work for free.
Boss, It's hard to say right now. There are too many choices! I'm going to stick with a 30-40' boat fishing boat. Looked at one last weekend by AC, but the description of the engines did not align with the actual status of the engines. :) so i walked away.
I see a few dealers in the north east that i will be hitting up over the next few months, and i'm looking to hit up the AC boat show next year...if nothing turns up before. Not going to move too quickly, as i'm still trying to get my head around all of the models and choices.
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You can always take a spot on one of the many open charters offered by many of our sponsors. You can fish as well as " learn the ropes". Yes, you will have to pay, but knowledge is priceless.
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There are so many quality boats on the market it certainly will be a tough choice. Good luck!
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Don't forget the survey on any boat you are thinking of buying. slt
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Don't know if this helps. Don't know any of these instructors.
http://www.uspowerboating.com/Home/Courses/Hire_a_Certified_Instructor.htm