Non Boater Tips

[bkohlman]

Thinking of joining a club as a non boater, what are some tips to make the experience better for me and the boaters in my club?

[BrianinMD]

learn to adjust to what your boater does, you wont get prime cast angles so look for places your boater didnt hit. unless they are hitting a specific bait dont be afraid to try something a little different smaller or slower fall rate.

talk to your boater before the tourney get an idea of what he will do and plan accordingly. ask about number of rods. dont take things that will stain if spilled, above respect the boater and his equipment

[bkohlman]

Thanks!

[webertime]

Talk to the boater, stress to them that you don't want to be a bummer for them. I do that because every guy is different. Some don't mind if you bring 10 rods and a ruck sack full of tackle, others aren't psyched if you bring a single rod and 3 senkos. In time you'll figure out what you need to bring and not bring.

There's a guy in our club (AOY or 2nd each of the last 4 years) that uses 2 spinning rods both rigged with the same bait. He switches the weight on occasion and rarely the color, but that's all this guy brings and uses and he stomps us regularly. This is to say that you should bring what you know you can catch fish on and no more. You don't need all 12 colors of senkos that you have in your bag at home. I used to get all spazzed out looking at all I brought and just confused myself when it came time to change baits, wasting time and losing confidence (have confidence is the real deal!)

Generally the non-boater gets one of the compartments in the back of the boat, I always plan on that compartment being the size of a Nitro Z6's (small). This way all my stuff isn't wedged in there and taking me a ton of time to get too and making a big mess on the boat. Likewise you will often be kneeling where the livewell hatch is and you'll not want to be in front/on that for too long if the guy wants to get in there. Again it's all about not being a neusense, if you're cool to them they will be cool with you and that makes the days much better.

Keep thier boat clean, unhook bleeders over the side of the boat, don't let a pickrel in the boat (we're weird about that up here).

Ask what they do about netting. Do they call out something and want you immediately? Do they never use a net? Only the big ones?

Take care of thier fish first if you get doubles.

MY Suggestions: (I live on Champlain big lake with lots of variety)

"Big Rod" C-Rigs, flipping, frogs (766 Recon/CuradoE/50lb braid)

"Common Rod" Swimbaits, spinnerbaits, footballs, some flipping, some flukes, rarely bigger cranks/jerks (715 Recon/CuradoE/16lb Fluoro)

"Pixie Stick" Spinning rod for Fat Ika's/Drop Shot/Senkos/Shaky Heads/smaller cranks and jerkbaits (Lamiglas Excel 703/Pflueger Supreme XT/20lb braid)

"Trebles" Jerkbaits/Cranks/Topwater (6' 6" M Daiwa Tierra/CiticaE/30lb braid w/leader)

"Just in case" I use for spinnerbaits, swimbaits, spooks, buzzbaits, if I already have a bait I am using on the Recon or Tierra, I'll use this one for another I'd use them for (6'10" MHxf Compre/CiticaE/ 12lb Yo Zuri Hybrid).

MAX 6 3600 sized boxes, occasionally a small worm wrap as well.

Scale, Culling Clips, lunch. pliars, something for leaders (C-Rig/DS), glasses, rag.

Offer to pay thier entry fee or gas (our club tourneys are $30 so they are cool with me paying for them and call it good.)

I offer to share if I am on fire with a certain bait, but try not to be annoying/obnoxious about it.

[J Francho]

http://www.bassresource.com/fishing/tournament-etiquette.html

http://www.bassresource.com/fishing/co-angler_clinic.html

http://www.bassresource.com/fishing/guide_to_tournament_fishing.html

http://www.bassresource.com/fishing/fishing_partners.html

[scbassman28]

Wow! It seems like some people think that the non boater should cater to the boater. I disagree with that. The non boater is not there to make sure the boater has a good day. If you both catch a fish at the same time, you worry about your fish and let him worry about his. I have fished a ton of tournaments as a non boater at the club level and in BFL tournaments. I have never had a boater stop fishing or help me with my fish befroe he took care of his. The main thing is to remember to respect his boat and his equipment. I agree with that 100%. Alway offer a fair amount of gas money. Dont bring a pile of equipment with you. I usually take between 4 and 6 rods with me. As long as they are not in the boaters way there usually is not a problem. I have a tackle bag and a plastics bag that I bring. Once again as long as it is not in his way there usually is not a problem. Just remember one thing, you both are there for the same reason. To have a fun and catch fish.

[Basscat7]

I don't see anywhere in any of those posts that say the non boater should cater to the boater.

What I see is suggestions to make the day go easier for both and to respect the property of the boater.

The Boater is booting all the expense, He is the one making the boat payment, insurance payment, maintenance payments, truck fuel to get the boat there, pre fishing fuel and so on.

And you are right, in a TX you probably will not get a boater to " stop fishing " ......but then again, He is the one putting out all the $$$ to fish off the boat.

You on the other hand, are a guest, whether you like it or not. You show up, fish, and go home.

So no catering, but do respect that the boater has put up a lot more to get that boat to the tournament and on the water.........and in the BFL's is paying twice the entry fee as you are as a non boater.

Respect works both ways.

[Basscat7]

RULES FOR NON-BOATERS

* Be on time when meeting your partner.

* Have your own Life Vest

* Bring your own drinks/food, but no extra coolers unless the boat does not have a built in cooler. Small lunch bags that can fit into a compartment are ok. Plastic coolers that have to sit on the floor will only get in the way.

* If you are not comfortable backing in a boat trailer or driving an empty trailer to the parking area SAY something. Don't be embarrassed. Everyone at one time did not know how to do it. Ask around and one of the boaters will show You how to maneuver the trailers.

* Treat the boat like it was your own "brand new boat" and try to avoid getting

mud, sand, spilling drinks, fish scents, etc… on the interior of the boat. If you do spill something , say something right away, the boater may have something to clean it with on board.

Bring drinks with closable lids, no open cans. Ask before using any Dyes on a boat, if the boater says No, then don't argue. Dye your baits at home before the TX. Dye stains permanently and does not come out of carpet or seats.

* A

Try and avoid stepping on top of the seats, most boats have a step up to the back deck, or a fold down middle seat with a step pad. Use it.

* Ask the boater where you can store items, You'll know where to store your rods; which compartments are for your use, etc

* Use covers for your crankbaits/traps that are tied on your rods so the trebles do not get stuck in the seats. If you do stick one, do not attempt to just pull it out as it will leave a bigger hole.

* If the boat has a big front deck and He invites you up front to fish do it, this is the easiest and fairest way to maneuver the boat and at the same time catch fish. Get up there!

* When casting from the back deck, do not throw your lure up past nose of the boat in an attempt to hit a target before the boater. The boater may be trying to position the boat to best access the structure so both of you can have decent casts at it.

* Do not have a lot of tackle scattered on the back deck. Ask the boater to give you 2 -3 casts notice when He will be ready to leave an area. You should be in your seat and ready to go when the boater pulls the trolling motor up.

* When prepping to move make sure your equipment is secured, rods strapped, hats stowed, etc. At 70 mph in some boats, objects will leave the boat in a hurry.

* Pay attention to what the bottom structure is like, or, if not familiar with the area ask the boater what it is like. If fishing areas that contain a lot of junk on the bottom, do not throw wacky rigs or open hook plastics that will get hung up every couple casts.

* Try to downsize extremely bulky tackle boxes and use tackle boxes that fit into storage compartments easier. This helps both of you, because the boxes won't be underfoot while battling and/or netting fish. You do not need to bring everything You own for a TX. 5 rods is sufficient, 6 max. Talk to your boater beforehand to get an idea what you will be fishing.

* At the end of the day clean up. Do not leave line, discarded plastic worms, lead weights, food wrappers, or bottles in the boat. Especially in the seating area floor. Smaller objects/plastics will work there way into the floor drain and either clog the drain, or get into the bilge and possibly get stuck in a bilge pump causing it to burn out. Take them to the trash.

* Always offer to help wipe down the boat after the tournament.

TOURNAMENT FISHING ETHICS

These apply to ALL tournament fishermen. There are a lot of these "unwritten rules" involving tournament etiquette.

* If you’re fishing in a tournament and your partner misses a fish don’t throw in immediately where he missed the fish and attempt to catch it. Let your partner reel in, and allow them to cast back at the fish a second time.

* When using a net don’t take wild jabs into the water at the fish, most fishermen prefer to lead the fish to the net. While other anglers would rather net or lip the fish themselves. Talk about net handling and lipping fish before you take-off in the morning.

* If you are in a 2 day TX and your previous day’s partner caught fish from an area do not go back to his areas trying to catch the fish he’d located. Maybe fish their pattern, but find a new area of the River.

* When someone takes you out practicing before a tournament don’t tell other competitors what, where, and how the fish were caught.

* Don’t cut off another competitor by pulling in on a bank and fishing in front of them. If a guy is working down a bankline, you can pull in Behind Him , but leave at least a 50 yard buffer zone.

* If boats are fishing a point or are sitting in one spot fishing. Do not pull up alongside and drop the trolling motor. Leave at least 4 long casts length between you and any other boats.

* if you’re leaving an area to go to another area, don’t prop wash and/or disturb the area . Idle out far enough away so your wake does not rock the other boats that are still fishing the area.

* When moving on the gas motor, keep a look straight ahead for any floating objects, especially after a heavy rain. two sets of eyes scanning the surface ahead is always safer. Point out an object if you see one, don't assume the boater sees it. Point out boats crossing from your side also.

Communication and a little mutual respect can go a long way in most situations involving etiquette or the "unwritten rules" of the game.

If you have to think about what you are going to do is OK, then it isn't.

Simply ask yourself: Would I like for that to be done to me?

You’ll have your answer.

[jchez444]

i been fishing as a co-angler for awhile and have been pretty successful. i was like you at first, was worried and not completely sure of the equittue so i researched the hell out of it. mainly condense your tackle to one bag, i persoonally use the KVD bad from walmart and can fit a ton of stuff in that bag(probably more then i really need). Only bring as many rods as you can easily manage and the main thing is not to let them get in the boaters way. never let any of your equipment hinder them or get tangled with theres. everyone has a different number of rods, some 3-4 some 6-7, i personally fish with 6 very easily and have never had an issue. as for cater to the boater you do not have to do that, if you both have a fish on you handle yours and let him handle his. also as the one guy stated over and over and over about the cost of boat payments and insurance etc....., that is there choice. no one force them to get a boat/truck payment no one forced them to fish a toourney trail that allows co-anglers, if they have an issue with that, then dont fish the trail or fish one with no co-angler, simple. here are some rules i follow:

1. do treat there boat as if it is new, at the end of the day you are just a guest on it.

2. Offer gas money, atleast $30 and ramp fee which is usually $5-$10bucks.

3. work out the netting procedures before a fish is caught

4. never cast to prime targets toward the front of the boat, you work from middle to back unless he says its fine to cast towards the front.

5. bring enough equipment that will get you through the day and it will not hinder you or the boater.

6. be on time and when moving from spot to spot dont be the last one. try and be in your seat with lifevast on ready to go or be quickly behind him.

7. just relax and have fun. no reason to be stressed out cause you are fishing as a co-angler. if you are you will not enjoy yourself and the boater will probably not enjoy your company either.

[Basscat7]

ummm

It was not stated over and over.....it was stated once.

If it was not for the boaters YOU would not be fishing the TX at all.

Do not forget that fact son.

[jchez444]

ummm

It was not stated over and over.....it was stated once.

If it was not for the boaters YOU would not be fishing the TX at all.

Do not forget that fact son.

HAHAHA well we know who the old cranky boater is. all i can say is i really feel for your co-angler who gets you in a draw. Im pretty sure he will be back boated and according to your post the co-angler is your personal slave. he will probably have to net his own fish. Thank god we have a ton of courteous good boaters out there and are willing to expect co-anglers and respect that they to are trying to win a tourney.

And that is a fact old man.

[BrianinMD]

Not seeing anything in these post about catering to the boater. As a co-angler I do not have any concerns about any comments. Can someone explain the issue??

[J Francho]

If you don't want to deal "catering" to the boater, just fish in a team format tournament. Way more fun than competing against the guy in front. You work together as a team - as a co-angler. The main object for a non boater is to learn. I started in the back of the boat, and I took it as an opportunity to learn new styles. I ended up doing pretty well, too. Now as a boater, I've really benefited from those years in the back. I learned a lot about many mistakes boaters make, and from their successes. As far as the expenses go, I already bought the boat and the truck, and I'm going to fish anyway. Anything a fishing partner can contribute beyond the entry fee is a bonus to me.

[BrianinMD]

My club has boaters fishing against boaters, coanglers against coanglers. We are not competing against each other. Never had anyone purposefully "back boat" me, sometimes the pattern is not easy for a coangler but that is part of learning. Thinking of different angles or presentations when you don't have prime spots to cast to.

[Shewillbemine]

Ok, really noob questions.

During a tournament, I presume the boater and non-boater separate their catches in 2 different livewells correct?

a. How might this be different if the boater is competing against the non-boater versus a team format?

b. What if, awkwardly, the non-boater is reaching his limit and needs use of the larger livewell on the boat?

Thanks.

[BrianinMD]

Yes, most times the catches are separated unless the boat only has one livewell then culling systems are used to distinguish individual catches.

a. Yes, if team tourney they would both use the same livewell, some people separate the bigger fish from the ones they hope to cull to make it easier to do so later.

b. That would have to be on a boater by boater basis, I have limited in a tourney and had my boater skunk but never had an issue of not enough space for my limit.

[Shewillbemine]

Yes, most times the catches are separated unless the boat only has one livewell then culling systems are used to distinguish individual catches.

a. Yes, if team tourney they would both use the same livewell, some people separate the bigger fish from the ones they hope to cull to make it easier to do so later.

b. That would have to be on a boater by boater basis, I have limited in a tourney and had my boater skunk but never had an issue of not enough space for my limit.

Great, thanks!

[Shoop05]

It's very simple. Be respectful and make sure the boater doesn't have to "baby sit" you. Most boaters and non boaters have no issue until boundaries get crossed. Yes you will always have that instance when nothing you do will be right, but for the most part boaters will do everything they can to help out co anglers, as long as it doesn't hinder them.

Also, don't be afraid to do something different from the boater in the beginning of a tournament. This only goes so far though, if the boater is smashing fish on a spinnerbait, and you haven't had a look on your worm, common sense would tell you to grab what's working. Just have faith in YOUR equipment, and YOUR knowledge, the rest will fall into place.

Good Luck