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Every boat has its own routine, but a little consideration goes a long way. Listen to the crew, ask questions, and remember you’re sharing the boat with everyone aboard.
Don’t claim spots with your stuff
Leaving a bag or sweater on a galley seat doesn’t make it yours for the day. Keep seats available for people who want to sit down and eat.
The same goes for the rail. Don’t spread out your gear to hold a fishing spot. Follow the boat’s rules about assigned spots or rotating, and give other anglers room.
Put your rod away when you step away
Heading to the bait tank or taking a break? Secure your rod in an appropriate rod holder. Ask the crew where it belongs if you’re unsure.
A rod left leaning against the rail can get knocked over, trip someone, or get in the way of an angler fighting a fish. Keep the deck clear for the crew, too.
Watch your line and speak up
Keep an eye on where your line is going. If it starts crossing another angler’s line, communicate before it becomes a tangle.
You’ll hear people call “Over!” or “Under!” when they need to pass their rod over or under yours, often while following a fish. Give them room and help them pass. If you’re unsure what to do, ask.
You can say it, too. Let nearby anglers know when you need to move your rod over or under theirs to keep the lines clear. Follow the crew’s directions.
Give someone fighting a fish some room
If the angler next to you hooks a fish, stay alert and be ready to move. Reel in your line if you can do so safely and it will help keep it out of their way, especially if the crew asks.
Don’t hold your spot while someone struggles to get past. You’ll appreciate the same help when it’s your turn.
Clean up your bait
Don’t leave cut squid or other bait sitting on the rail. It dries out, sticks, and leaves the deckhands with extra cleanup.
Use the cutting area and bait containers provided, and ask the crew where scraps should go.
Learn the crew’s names
Introduce yourself and try to remember the deckhands’ names. Calling someone by their name is a lot better than repeatedly yelling “Deckhand!”
When you need help, get their attention and explain what’s happening. Remember they may already be helping someone else.
Ask before you guess
Check behind you before casting. If you get tangled, let the other angler know and ask for help instead of pulling harder.
Nobody expects a first-time angler to know everything. If you’re unsure about bait, rigging, storing your gear, or handling a fish, ask the crew.
Keep your gear tidy, respect shared space, and make the trip easier for the people around you.