Fishing Without 1st Mate

[GLF]

How many, if any, fish without a first mate?

[Capt Craig]

Not me although I am seriously thinking about getting rid of the bridge boat so I can do just that, with the rising costs it's just another way to try to make a profit.

[Captain]

My Dad and I are both Captains and 99% of the time we are both there. If one of us can't make it, we run the trips solo. If and when my Dad hangs it up, I'll run solo daily...

[CaptLevi]

I ran a number of trips solo last season. While all went well and I did show a decent profit, a few customers did comment on the lack of a mate. Sportboat has a 27 year history of keeping a first mate on all trips. We are one of only a couple who do out of St. Joe. So I attempt to always have a competent and friendly mate running the lines.

The only exception is when I get folks calling for a discounted trip. I can reduce the cost a smidgen if they agree to no mate onboard. This usually involves 1 -2 person trips only.

[Blue Knight]

If they're regular customers I'll run solo & let them steer while I set lines or net the fish. They don't have a problem with that. Some have been coming out with me for over 20 years. If they're new guys I always have a mate with me.

[Addiction]

I only run with a Mate if requested and let them know there is a extra 50$ add to the trip for the mate. My auto pilot holds a good course and the raymarine radar gives me a quick view of the traffic around me while setting lines and netting fish.

[Brother Nature]

I try to have a mate when fishing in close to piers, breakwaters, etc.--mostly spring and fall. In the summer, offshore season where boats are spread out, I rely on the autopilot and save the mate fee and tip for myself. Helps with the high gas prices.